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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Columbus European Laboratory, part of the payload on their mission. Seen here is Commander Steve Frick. The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. The other crew members are Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Rex Walheim, Stan Love, Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, who represents the European Space Agency. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND). Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0058

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Columbus European Laboratory, part of the payload on their mission. Seen here is Commander Steve Frick.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. From left are Mission Specialists Steve Bowen and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper. The CEIT provides hands-on experience with hardware and equipment slated to fly on their mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2239

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. From left are ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – With space shuttle Discovery as backdrop on Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the STS-119 crew address the workers and guests on hand to welcome them home following their 13-day, 5.3-million mile journey on the STS-119 mission to the International Space Station. From left are Commander Lee Archambault, Pilot Tony Antonelli and Mission Specialists Joseph Acaba, Steve Swanson, Richard Arnold and John Phillips. Main gear touchdown was at 3:13:17 p.m. EDT. Nose gear touchdown was at 3:13:40 p.m. and wheels stop was at 3:14:45 p.m. Discovery delivered the final pair of large power-generating solar array wings and the S6 truss segment. The mission was the 28th flight to the station, the 36th flight of Discovery and the 125th in the Space Shuttle Program, as well as the 70th landing at Kennedy. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2402

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – With space shuttle Discovery as backdrop on Run...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – With space shuttle Discovery as backdrop on Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the STS-119 crew address the workers and guests on hand to welcome them home fo... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the STS-133 crew receive instruction by the catch nets for the slidewire baskets at the base of the pad as part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) emergency exit training. From left are Mission Specialist Tim Kopra, Pilot Eric Boe, Commander Steve Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Alvin Drew, Nicole Stott and Michael Barratt. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5166

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Cent...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the STS-133 crew receive instruction by the catch nets for the slidewire baskets at the base of the pad as part of... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Steve Swanson adjusts his helmet as he puts on the launch-and-entry suit for the launch of space shuttle Discovery. The crew will be heading for Launch Pad 39A and liftoff of Discovery, scheduled for 7:43 p.m. EDT on March 15. An earlier launch attempt March 11 was scrubbed at 2:36 p.m. due to a gaseous hydrogen leak from the external tank at the Ground Umbilical Carrier Plate during tanking. A seven-inch quick disconnect and two seals were replaced. The STS-119 mission is the 28th to the International Space Station and the 125th space shuttle flight. Discovery will deliver the final pair of power-generating solar array wings and the S6 truss segment. Installation of S6 will signal the station's readiness to house a six-member crew for conducting increased science. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2044

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Steve Swanson adjusts his helmet as he puts on the launch-and-entry suit for ... More

HOUSTON, Texas -- STS119-S-002: Attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits, these seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-119 crew portrait. From the right (front row) are NASA astronauts Lee Archambault, commander, and Tony Antonelli, pilot. From the left (back row) are NASA astronauts Joseph Acaba, John Phillips, Steve Swanson, Richard Arnold and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Koichi Wakata, all mission specialists. Wakata is scheduled to join Expedition 18 as flight engineer after launching to the International Space Station on STS-119. KSC-08pd4131

HOUSTON, Texas -- STS119-S-002: Attired in training versions of their ...

HOUSTON, Texas -- STS119-S-002: Attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits, these seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-119 crew portrait. From the right (fro... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey talks to media at Launch Pad 39A, where space shuttle Discovery is poised for launch next month. The six-member STS-133 crew is at Kennedy for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad. Discovery and its crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5148

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey talks to media at Launch Pad 39A, where space shuttle Discovery is poised for launch next month. The six-member... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Commander Steve Frick (right) and Pilot Alan Poindexter arrive at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in a shuttle training aircraft jet for launch aboard space shuttle Atlantis on Feb. 7. The crew's arrival signals the imminent launch of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission, at 2:45 p.m. Feb. 7. This will be the third launch attempt for the mission. Some of the tank's ECO sensors gave failed readings during propellant tanking for launch attempts on Dec. 6 and Dec. 9, subsequently scrubbing further attempts until the cause could be found and repairs made. Atlantis will carry the Columbus module, Europe's largest contribution to the construction of the International Space Station. It will support scientific and technological research in a microgravity environment. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to the Harmony module of the space station to carry out experiments in materials science, fluid physics and biosciences, as well as to perform a number of technological applications. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd0121

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Commander Steve Frick (right) a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Commander Steve Frick (right) and Pilot Alan Poindexter arrive at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in a shuttle training aircraft jet for launch aboard space shuttle Atlantis o... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After arriving at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Commander Steve Frick is greeted by Doug Lyons, launch director for STS-122 mission. The crew's arrival signals the imminent launch of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-122 mission, at 2:45 p.m. Feb. 7. This will be the third launch attempt for the mission. Some of the tank's ECO sensors gave failed readings during propellant tanking for launch attempts on Dec. 6 and Dec. 9, subsequently scrubbing further attempts until the cause could be found and repairs made. Atlantis will carry the Columbus module, Europe's largest contribution to the construction of the International Space Station. It will support scientific and technological research in a microgravity environment. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to the Harmony module of the space station to carry out experiments in materials science, fluid physics and biosciences, as well as to perform a number of technological applications. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd0122

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After arriving at NASA's Kennedy Space ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After arriving at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-122 Commander Steve Frick is greeted by Doug Lyons, launch director for STS-122 mission. The crew's arrival signals the imminent... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload on their mission. Here, Mission Specialist Stan Love (left) and Commander Steve Frick get a close look. The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. The other crew members are Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Rex Walheim, Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, who represents the European Space Agency. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Columbus European Laboratory. Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0061

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload on their mis... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) is ready for flight on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe will fly the modified Gulfstream II business jets to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5093

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) is ready for...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) is ready for flight on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialists Koichi Wakata (center) and Steve Swanson are getting into their harnesses, which include a parachute pack, before crawling through the open hatch into space shuttle Discovery. The White Room is at the end of the orbiter access arm on the fixed service structure and provides access into the shuttle. The STS-119 mission is the 28th to the International Space Station and the 125th space shuttle flight. Discovery will deliver the final pair of power-generating solar array wings and the S6 truss segment. Installation of S6 will signal the station's readiness to house a six-member crew for conducting increased science. Liftoff is scheduled for 7:43 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray, Tom Farrar KSC-2009-2056

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's K...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialists Koichi Wakata (center) and Steve Swanson are getting into their harnesses, which... More

STS122-S-064 (7 Feb. 2008) --- The Space Shuttle Atlantis and its seven-member STS-122 crew head toward Earth-orbit and a scheduled link-up with the International Space Station (ISS). Liftoff from Kennedy Space Center's launch pad 39A occurred at 2:45 p.m. (EST). The launch is the third attempt for Atlantis since December 2007 to carry the European Space Agency's (ESA) Columbus laboratory to the station. During the mission, the crew's prime objective is to attach the laboratory to the Harmony module, adding to the station's size and capabilities. Onboard are astronauts Steve Frick, commander; Alan Poindexter, pilot; Leland Melvin, Rex Walheim, ESA's Hans Schlegel, Stanley Love and ESA's Leopold Eyharts, all mission specialists. Eyharts will join Expedition 16 in progress to serve as a flight engineer aboard the ISS. 08pp0297

STS122-S-064 (7 Feb. 2008) --- The Space Shuttle Atlantis and its seve...

STS122-S-064 (7 Feb. 2008) --- The Space Shuttle Atlantis and its seven-member STS-122 crew head toward Earth-orbit and a scheduled link-up with the International Space Station (ISS). Liftoff from Kennedy Space... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) performs touch-and-go landings as the sun sets over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe are flying two Gulfstream II business jets that are modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2010-5130

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) performs tou...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) performs touch-and-go landings as the sun sets over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-133 Commander Ste... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-126 Mission Specialist Steve Bowen fits his helmet during suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Bowen and other crew members are having their launch-and-entry suits fit-checked prior to heading for Launch Pad 39A. The crew will take part in a simulated launch countdown at the pad. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit training and the simulated countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3422

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-126 Mission Specialist Steve Bowen fits hi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-126 Mission Specialist Steve Bowen fits his helmet during suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Bowen and other crew members are ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick puts on his helmet, part of his launch and entry suit, in astronaut crew quarters. The STS-122 crew is preparing for a simulated launch countdown aboard Atlantis, part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The TCDT is a dress rehearsal for launch and also provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3411

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commande...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick puts on his helmet, part of his launch and entry suit, in astronaut crew quarters. The STS-122 crew is preparing for a simul... More

STS119-S-059 (28 March 2009) --- Space Shuttle Discovery approaches landing on Runway 15 of the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, concluding the 13-day, 5.3-million mile journey of the STS-119 mission to the International Space Station. Onboard are NASA astronauts Lee Archambault, commander; Tony Antonelli, pilot; Steve Swanson, Richard Arnold, Joseph Acaba, John Phillips and Sandra Magnus, all mission specialists. The main landing gear touched down at 3:13:17 p.m. (EDT) on March 28, 2009. The nose gear touched down at 3:13:40 p.m. and wheels stop was at 3:14:45 p.m. During the mission, Discovery?s crew delivered and installed the final pair of large power-generating solar array wings and the S6 truss segment to the starboard, or right, side of the station and accomplished important tasks to prepare the station for future upgrades and additions later this year. sts119-s-059

STS119-S-059 (28 March 2009) --- Space Shuttle Discovery approaches la...

STS119-S-059 (28 March 2009) --- Space Shuttle Discovery approaches landing on Runway 15 of the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, concluding the 13-day, 5.3-million mile journey of the ST... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew responds to questions from the media. From left are Commander Steve Frick (with the microphone); Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Rex Walheim, Hans Schlegel, Stanley Love and Leopold Eyharts. Schlegel and Eyharts are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3372

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Laun...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew responds to questions from the media. From left are Commander Steve Frick (with the mic... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus (with microphone) answers a question from the media. The other crew members with her are (from left) Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Eric Boe and Mission Specialists Steve Bowen, Shane Kimbrough, Donald Pettit and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit procedures and a simulated launch countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3400

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Cen...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus (with microphone) answers a question from the media. The other crew members with h... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, launch team members monitor the countdown to the launch of space shuttle Atlantis on its STS-135 mission to the International Space Station. Seen here is NASA Test Director Steve Payne. Atlantis with its crew of four; Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley, Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim, lifted off at 11:29 a.m. EDT on July 8, 2011 to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts for the station. Atlantis also will fly the Robotic Refueling Mission experiment that will investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites in orbit. In addition, Atlantis will return with a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-5292

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, launch team members monitor the countdown to the launch of space shuttle Atlantis on its STS-135 ... More

CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey is ready to take off from the Shuttle Landing Facility runway to fly touch-and-go landings in a Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA). The Gulfstream II business jet is modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Space shuttle Discovery's crew members are at Kennedy for their upcoming launch to the International Space Station. In the days leading up to lift off, they will check the fit of their spacesuits, review launch-day procedures, receive weather briefings and remain medically quarantined to prevent sickness. STS-133 will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5358

CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 ...

CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey is ready to take off from the Shuttle Landing Facility runway to fly touch-and-go landings in a Shuttle Training Air... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Richard Arnold (right) practices using the camera to be used on the mission. Looking on is Mission Specialist Steve Swanson. The crew is at Kennedy for a Crew Equipment Interface Test that provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. On the STS-119 mission, space shuttle Discovery will carry the S6 truss segment to complete the 361-foot-long backbone of the International Space Station. The truss includes the fourth pair of solar array wings and electronics that convert sunlight to power for the orbiting laboratory. Discovery is targeted for launch on Feb. 12, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3789

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility at NASA's K...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Richard Arnold (right) practices using the camera to be used on the mission. Loo... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Steve Swanson is helped by the Closeout Crew to put on his harness. The White Room provides access into space shuttle Discovery. Swanson and other crew members will conduct a simulated launch countdown as part of the prelaunch preparation known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. The TCDT also includes equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Discovery is targeted to launch on the STS-119 mission Feb. 12. During the 14-day mission, the crew will install the S6 truss segment and solar arrays to the starboard side of the International Space Station, completing the station's truss, or backbone. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2009-1270

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Steve Swanson is helped by the Closeout Crew to put on his harness. The White R... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the STS-122 mission crew members stride out of the Operations and Checkout Building, eager to ride to the launch pad and take their seats in space shuttle Atlantis for the planned launch today at 2:45 p.m. EST. Seen on the right, front to back, are Commander Steve Frick and Mission Specialists Rex Walheim and Hans Schlegel. On the left, front to back, are Pilot Alan Poindexter, followed by Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Stanley Love and Leopold Eyharts. Schlegel and Eyharts represent the European Space Agency. The launch will be the third attempt for Atlantis since December 2007 to carry the European Space Agency's Columbus laboratory to the International Space Station. During the 11-day mission, the crew's prime objective is to attach the laboratory to the Harmony module, adding to the station's size and capabilities. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd0199

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the STS...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the STS-122 mission crew members stride out of the Operations and Checkout Building, eager to ride to the launch pad and take their seats in space ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Steve Swanson is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier used for emergency escape, if needed, from the launch pad. The crew members are at Kennedy for prelaunch preparation known as terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The training provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown. The crew of space shuttle Discovery is targeted to launch on the STS-119 mission Feb. 12. During Discovery's 14-day mission, the crew will install the S6 truss segment and solar arrays to the starboard side of the International Space Station, completing the station's truss, or backbone. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1207

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Steve Swanson is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier used for emergency escape, if needed,... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-126 crew members listen to instructions about the M-113 armored personnel carrier they are sitting in used for emergency escape from Launch Pad 39A. From left are Mission Specialist Steve Bowen and Pilot Eric Boe; astronaut rescue team leader Capt. George Hoggard; and Mission Specialists Shane Kimbrough, Sandra Magnus and Donald Pettit. The crew is at Kennedy for pre-launch preparation known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. The training provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3371

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, th...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-126 crew members listen to instructions about the M-113 armored personnel carrier they are sitting in used for emergency escape from L... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-126 crew is ready to answer questions from the media about their mission. Commander Chris Ferguson, at left, introduces his crew: (from left) Pilot Eric Boe and Mission Specialists Steve Bowen, Sandra Magnus, Shane Kimbrough, Donald Pettit and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper. Behind them is space shuttle Endeavour. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit procedures and a simulated launch countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3398

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Cen...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-126 crew is ready to answer questions from the media about their mission. Commander Chris Ferguson, at left, introd... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-133 crew members receive instruction on the operation of the pad's slidewire basket system emergency exit training as part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). From left are Mission Specialist Alvin Drew, Pilot Eric Boe, Mission Specialist Tim Kopra, Commander Steve Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Nicole Stott and Michael Barratt. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5164

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Cent...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-133 crew members receive instruction on the operation of the pad's slidewire basket system emergency exit training as part of the Te... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members pause for a photo in front of the Columbus European Laboratory, part of the payload on their mission. From left are Pilot Alan Poindexter, Mission Specialists Hans Schlegel, Rex Walheim and Stan Love, and Commander Steve Frick. Schlegel represents the European Space Agency. The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND). Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0060

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facili...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members pause for a photo in front of the Columbus European Laboratory, part of the payload on their mission. From left are... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the International Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, senior government officials from 15 countries participating in the space station program signed agreements in Washington D.C. on Jan. 29 to establish the framework of cooperation among the partners on the design, development, operation and utilization of the space station. Acting Secretary of State Strobe Talbott signed the 1998 Intergovernmental Agreement on Space Station Cooperation with representatives of Russia, Japan, Canada, and participating countries of the European Space Agency ESA -- Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Some of these officials then toured Kennedy's Space Station Processing Facility SSPF with NASA Administrator Daniel Goldin, at front, sixth from the left. They are, left to right, front to back: Hidetoshi Murayama, National Space Development Agency of Japan NASDA Louis Laurent, Embassy of France Haakon Blankenborg, Norwegian Parliament Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs His Excellency Joris Vos, ambassador of the Netherlands His Excellency Tom Vraalsen, ambassador of Norway Goldin Luigi Berlinguer, Italian minister for education, scientific, and technological research Antonio Rodota, director general, ESA Yvan Ylieff, Belgian minister of science and chairman of the ESA Ministerial Council Jacqueline Ylieff Masaaki Komatsu, Kennedy local NASDA representative and interpreter Serge Ivanets, space attache, Embassy of Russia Hiroshi Fujita, Science and Technology Agency of Japan Akira Mizutani, Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Peter Grognard, science attache', Royal Embassy of Belgium Michelangelo Pipan, Italian diplomatic counselor to the minister His Excellency Gerhard Fulda, German Federal Foreign Office Jorg Feustel-Buechl, ESA director of manned space flight and microgravity A. Yakovenko, Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs JoAnn Morgan, Kennedy associate director for Advanced Development and Shuttle Upgrades Steve Francois, director, International Space Station and Shuttle Processing Roy Tharpe, Boeing launch site manager Jon Cowart, ISS elements manager John Schumacher, NASA associate administrator for external relations Didier Kechemair, space advistor to the French minister for education, research, and technology Yoshinori Yoshimura, NASDA and Loren Shriver, Kennedy deputy director for launch and payload processing. Node 1 of the ISS is in the background. Photo Credit: NASA KSC-98pc246

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the International Space Station Processing ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the International Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, senior government officials from 15 countries participating in the space station program... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Cutting a red ribbon for the unveiling of a newly renovated altitude chamber are (left to right) Tommy Mack, project manager, NASA; Steve Francois, director, Space Station and Shuttle Payloads; Sterling Walker, director, Engineering Development; Roy Bridges, director, Kennedy Space Center; Jay Greene, International Space Station manager for Technical; Michael Terry, project manager, Boeing; and Terry Smith, director of Engineering, Boeing Space Coast Operations. The chamber was reactivated, after a 24-year hiatus, to perform leak tests on International Space Station pressurized modules at the launch site. Originally, two chambers were built to test the Apollo command and lunar service modules. They were last used in 1975 during the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project. After installation of new vacuum pumping equipment and controls, a new control room, and a new rotation handling fixture, the chamber again became operational in February 1999. The chamber, which is 33 feet in diameter and 50 feet tall, is constructed of stainless steel. The first module that will be tested for leaks is the U.S. Laboratory. No date has been determined for the test KSC-99pp0237

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Cutting a red ribbon for the unveiling o...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Cutting a red ribbon for the unveiling of a newly renovated altitude chamber are (left to right) Tommy Mack, project manager, NASA; Steve Francois, director, Space Station and Shut... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At a ribbon-cutting ceremony inside the Operations and Checkout Building high bay, Sterling Walker, director of Engineering Development, introduces the project team members responsible for renovating an altitude chamber formerly used on the Apollo program. In addition, management, media and onlookers are present for the ceremony. Seated in the front row left are (left to right) Terry Smith, director of Engineering, Boeing Space Coast Operations; Steve Francois, director, Space Station and Shuttle Payloads; Jay Greene, International Space Station manager for Technical; and Roy Bridges, center director. The chamber was reactivated, after a 24-year hiatus, to perform leak tests on International Space Station pressurized modules at the launch site. Originally, two chambers were built to test the Apollo command and lunar service modules. They were last used in 1975 during the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project. After installation of new vacuum pumping equipment and controls, a new control room, and a new rotation handling fixture, the chamber again became operational in February 1999. The chamber, which is 33 feet in diameter and 50 feet tall, is constructed of stainless steel. The first module that will be tested for leaks is the U.S. Laboratory. No date has been determined for the test KSC-99pp0236

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At a ribbon-cutting ceremony inside the ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At a ribbon-cutting ceremony inside the Operations and Checkout Building high bay, Sterling Walker, director of Engineering Development, introduces the project team members respons... More

Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Support, explains to STS-96 Mission Specialist Valery Ivanovich Tokarev the use of the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Behind him are Commander Kent V. Rominger and Mission Specialist Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.). The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Other crew members taking part in the TCDT are Pilot Rick Douglas Husband and Mission Specialists Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.), Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.), and Julie Payette, with the Canadian Space Agency. Tokarev is with the Russian Space Agency. Mission STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0456

Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Support, explains to STS-...

Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Support, explains to STS-96 Mission Specialist Valery Ivanovich Tokarev the use of the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training duri... More

STS-96 Mission Specialist Valery Ivanovich Tokarev practices driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Riding the front of the carrier is Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Support, who is assisting with the training. Behind them are Pilot Rick Douglas Husband (waving), and Mission Specialists Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.) and Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.) (waving). The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Other crew members taking part in the TCDT are Commander Kent V. Rominger and Mission Specialists Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.) and Julie Payette, with the Canadian Space Agency. Tokarev is with the Russian Space Agency. Mission STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0457

STS-96 Mission Specialist Valery Ivanovich Tokarev practices driving t...

STS-96 Mission Specialist Valery Ivanovich Tokarev practices driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities.... More

Under the guidance of Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Support, STS-96 Mission Specialist Daniel Barry (right) practices driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. At the rear of the carrier are Pilot Rick Douglas Husband and Mission Specialists Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.) and Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.). The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Other crew members taking part in the TCDT are Commander Kent V. Rominger and Mission Specialists Julie Payette, with the Canadian Space Agency, and Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, with the Russian Space Agency. Mission STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0455

Under the guidance of Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Sup...

Under the guidance of Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Support, STS-96 Mission Specialist Daniel Barry (right) practices driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress ... More

The STS-96 crew listen to Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, who is assisting with emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. From left are Mission Specialist Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.), Pilot Rick Douglas Husband, Mission Specialists Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.), Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.) and Julie Payette, and Commander Kent V. Rominger. Next to Rominger is Douglas Hamilton, Canadian flight surgeon. Payette is with the Canadian Space Agency. Tokarev represents the Russian Space Agency. Mission STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0450

The STS-96 crew listen to Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Suppor...

The STS-96 crew listen to Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, who is assisting with emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT also provides si... More

At right, STS-96 Mission Specialist Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.) practices driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. At left is Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, who is assisting with the training. At the rear of the carrier are (left) Mission Specialist Julie Payette, with the Canadian Space Agency, and Commander Kent V. Rominger (right). The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Other crew members taking part in the TCDT are Pilot Rick Douglas Husband, and Mission Specialists Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.), Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.), and Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, who is with the Russian Space Agency. Mission STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0454

At right, STS-96 Mission Specialist Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.) practic...

At right, STS-96 Mission Specialist Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.) practices driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT)... More

Under the eye of Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Support, Commander Kent V. Rominger gets ready to practice driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. At the rear is Douglas Hamilton, a Canadian flight surgeon. The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Other crew members taking part in the TCDT are Pilot Rick Douglas Husband, and Mission Specialists Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.), Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.), Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.), Julie Payette and Valery Ivanovich Tokarev. Payette represents the Canadian Space Agency and Tokarev the Russian Space Agency. Mission STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0453

Under the eye of Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Support,...

Under the eye of Capt. Steve Kelly (left), with Space Gateway Support, Commander Kent V. Rominger gets ready to practice driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training dur... More

Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, congratulates STS-96 Mission Specialist Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.), who successfully completed training in the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. Behind them (from left) are crew members Mission Specialist Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, Pilot Rick Douglas Husband and Mission Specialist Julie Payette. Holding the camera is Douglas Hamilton, a Canadian flight surgeon. Payette is with the Canadian Space Agency. Tokarev represents the Russian Space Agency. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Mission STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0452

Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, congratulates STS-96 Mi...

Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, congratulates STS-96 Mission Specialist Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.), who successfully completed training in the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency e... More

While Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, keeps watch from the top of the vehicle, STS-96 Pilot Rick Douglas Husband practices driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Behind them are (from left) Mission Specialist Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.), Commander Kent V. Rominger and Mission Specialist Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.). The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Other crew members taking part in the TCDT are Mission Specialists Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.), Julie Payette, with the Canadian Space Agency, and Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, with the Russian Space Agency. Mission STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0458

While Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, keeps watch from ...

While Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, keeps watch from the top of the vehicle, STS-96 Pilot Rick Douglas Husband practices driving the small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency eg... More

STS-96 Mission Specialist Julie Payette (right) practices driving a small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. At left are Mission Specialist Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, with the Russian Space Agency, and Pilot Rick Douglas Husband. Payette is with the Canadian Space Agency. Riding on the front of the carrier is Capt. Steve Kelly, with Space Gateway Support, who is assisting the crew with their training. Other crew members are Commander Kent V. Rominger and Mission Specialists Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.), Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.), and Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.). Mission STS-96 is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0449

STS-96 Mission Specialist Julie Payette (right) practices driving a sm...

STS-96 Mission Specialist Julie Payette (right) practices driving a small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The ... More

At Launch Pad 39B, Capt. Steve Kelly, with Fire Services, explains part of the emergency egress procedure to the STS-96 crew. Mission Specialist Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.) is in the evacuation seat and training officer Gina Tucker behind him. In the background, workers at the pad look on. The STS-96 crew are taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities which also provide simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. The other crew members are Commander Kent V. Rominger, Pilot Rick Douglas Husband and Mission Specialists Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.), Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.), Julie Payette, with the Canadian Space Agency, and Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, with the Russian Space Agency. STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0465

At Launch Pad 39B, Capt. Steve Kelly, with Fire Services, explains par...

At Launch Pad 39B, Capt. Steve Kelly, with Fire Services, explains part of the emergency egress procedure to the STS-96 crew. Mission Specialist Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.) is in the evacuation seat and training... More

STS-97 Pilot Michael Bloomfield gets help with his boots from suit technician Steve Clendenin during pre-pack and fit check. Mission STS-97 is the sixth construction flight to the International Space Station. Its payload includes the P6 Integrated Truss Structure and a photovoltaic (PV) module, with giant solar arrays that will provide power to the Station. The mission includes two spacewalks to complete the solar array connections. STS-97 is scheduled to launch Nov. 30 at about 10:06 p.m. EST KSC-00padig106

STS-97 Pilot Michael Bloomfield gets help with his boots from suit tec...

STS-97 Pilot Michael Bloomfield gets help with his boots from suit technician Steve Clendenin during pre-pack and fit check. Mission STS-97 is the sixth construction flight to the International Space Station. I... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, Steve Thomas (center), looks at a model of the International Space Station being held by a worker. Thomas is host of the television series "This Old House." In the foreground and at right are crew members of the television series.; They are at KSC to film an episode of the series KSC00pp1918

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, Steve Thomas (center), looks at a model of the International Space Station being held by a worker. Thomas is host of the television serie... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, Steve Thomas (center), looks at a model of the International Space Station being held by a worker. Thomas is host of the television series "This Old House." In the foreground and at right are crew members of the television series.; They are at KSC to film an episode of the series KSC-00pp1918

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, Steve Thomas (center), looks at a model of the International Space Station being held by a worker. Thomas is host of the television serie... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the KSC television studio, KSC management and other employees applaud President George W. Bush, who addressed the public and an assembly of government officials at NASA Headquarters as he outlined a new focus and vision for the space agency. Shown from left are Mike Leinbach, Shuttle launch director; David Culp, with NASA; Steve Francois, director, Launch Services Program; Richard Cota, deputy chief financial officer, KSC; Bill Pickavance vice president and associate program manager of Florida Operations, United Space Alliance (USA) ; Howard DeCastro, vice president and Space Shuttle program manager, USA; Shannon Roberts, with External Affairs; Woodrow Whitlow, KSC deputy director; Bruce Buckingham, assistant to Dr. Whitlow; Lisa Malone, director of External Affairs; Ken Aguilar, chief, Equal Opportunity office; and Cheryl Cox, External Affairs. The President stated his goals for NASA’s new mission: Completing the International Space Station, retiring the Space Shuttle orbiters, developing a new crew exploration vehicle, and returning to the moon and beyond within the next two decades. Pres. Bush was welcomed by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe and Expedition 8 Commander Michael Foale, who greeted him from the International Space Station. Members of the Washington, D.C., audience included astronauts Eileen Collins, Ed Lu and Michael Lopez-Alegria, and former astronaut Gene Cernan

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the KSC television studio, KSC mana...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the KSC television studio, KSC management and other employees applaud President George W. Bush, who addressed the public and an assembly of government officials at NASA Headqu... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-114 crew members tour the Rubber Room at Launch Pad 39A. From left to right are Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas; Steve Leonhard, chief, Pad A Operations, with United Space Alliance (USA); Mission Commander Eileen Collins; Mission Specialists Soichi Noguchi, who represents the Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency, and Charles Camarda; Pilot James Kelly; and David Sutherland, manager, Pad A Operations, USA. Located under the launch pad, the steel dome Rubber Room floats on rubber isolators. It was the escape area used during the Apollo launches and it could not be removed when the pad was modified for the Shuttle. In case of an emergency on the pad, the astronauts would slide down a long vertical tube (left) to the Rubber Room and wait for the danger to clear. The STS-114 mission is Logistics Flight 1, which is scheduled to deliver supplies and equipment plus the external stowage platform to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd1044

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-114 crew members tour the Rubber Roo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-114 crew members tour the Rubber Room at Launch Pad 39A. From left to right are Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas; Steve Leonhard, chief, Pad A Operations, with United Space Al... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is a printable version of space shuttle Discovery's orbiter tribute, or OV-103, which hangs in Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In 2011, the tribute was updated to reflect the crew member change on Discovery's final mission -- STS-133. Steve Bowen replaced Tim Kopra as a mission specialist on STS-133, after Kopra was injured in a bicycle accident that prevented him from flying into space. Discovery’s accomplishments include the first female shuttle pilot, Eileen Collins, on STS-63, John Glenn’s legendary return to space on STS-95, and the celebration of the 100th shuttle mission with STS-92. In addition, Discovery supported a number of Department of Defense programs, satellite deploy and repair missions and 13 International Space Station construction and operation flights. The tribute features Discovery demonstrating the rendezvous pitch maneuver on approach to the International Space Station during STS-114. Having accumulated the most space shuttle flights, Discovery’s 39 mission patches are shown circling the spacecraft. The background image was taken from the Hubble Space Telescope, which launched aboard Discovery on STS-31 and serviced by Discovery on STS-82 and STS-103. The American Flag and Bald Eagle represent Discovery’s two Return-to-Flight missions -- STS-26 and STS-114 -- and symbolize Discovery’s role in returning American astronauts to space. Five orbiter tributes are on display in the firing room, representing Atlantis, Challenger, Columbia, Endeavour and Discovery. Graphic design credit: NASA/Amy Lombardo. NASA publication number: SP-2010-08-164-KSC KSC-2010-4453E

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is a printable version of space shuttle D...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is a printable version of space shuttle Discovery's orbiter tribute, or OV-103, which hangs in Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This orbiter tribute of space shuttle Discovery, or OV-103, hangs in Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In 2011, the tribute was updated to reflect the crew member change on Discovery's final mission -- STS-133. Steve Bowen replaced Tim Kopra as a mission specialist on STS-133, after Kopra was injured in a bicycle accident that prevented him from flying into space. Discovery’s accomplishments include the first female shuttle pilot, Eileen Collins, on STS-63, John Glenn’s legendary return to space on STS-95, and the celebration of the 100th shuttle mission with STS-92. In addition, Discovery supported a number of Department of Defense programs, satellite deploy and repair missions and 13 International Space Station construction and operation flights. The tribute features Discovery demonstrating the rendezvous pitch maneuver on approach to the International Space Station during STS-114. Having accumulated the most space shuttle flights, Discovery’s 39 mission patches are shown circling the spacecraft. The background image was taken from the Hubble Space Telescope, which launched aboard Discovery on STS-31 and serviced by Discovery on STS-82 and STS-103. The American Flag and Bald Eagle represent Discovery’s two Return-to-Flight missions -- STS-26 and STS-114 -- and symbolize Discovery’s role in returning American astronauts to space. Five orbiter tributes are on display in the firing room, representing Atlantis, Challenger, Columbia, Endeavour and Discovery. Graphic design credit: NASA/Amy Lombardo. NASA publication number: SP-2010-08-164-KSC KSC-2010-4453C

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This orbiter tribute of space shuttle Discover...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This orbiter tribute of space shuttle Discovery, or OV-103, hangs in Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In 2011, the tribute was update... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is a version of space shuttle Discovery's orbiter tribute, or OV-103, which hangs in Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In 2011, the tribute was updated to reflect the crew member change on Discovery's final mission -- STS-133. Steve Bowen replaced Tim Kopra as a mission specialist on STS-133, after Kopra was injured in a bicycle accident that prevented him from flying into space. Discovery’s accomplishments include the first female shuttle pilot, Eileen Collins, on STS-63, John Glenn’s legendary return to space on STS-95, and the celebration of the 100th shuttle mission with STS-92. In addition, Discovery supported a number of Department of Defense programs, satellite deploy and repair missions and 13 International Space Station construction and operation flights. The tribute features Discovery demonstrating the rendezvous pitch maneuver on approach to the International Space Station during STS-114. Having accumulated the most space shuttle flights, Discovery’s 39 mission patches are shown circling the spacecraft. The background image was taken from the Hubble Space Telescope, which launched aboard Discovery on STS-31 and serviced by Discovery on STS-82 and STS-103. The American Flag and Bald Eagle represent Discovery’s two Return-to-Flight missions -- STS-26 and STS-114 -- and symbolize Discovery’s role in returning American astronauts to space. Five orbiter tributes are on display in the firing room, representing Atlantis, Challenger, Columbia, Endeavour and Discovery. Graphic design credit: NASA/Amy Lombardo. NASA publication number: SP-2010-08-164-KSC KSC-2010-4453D

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is a version of space shuttle Discovery's...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This is a version of space shuttle Discovery's orbiter tribute, or OV-103, which hangs in Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In 2011, t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-114 crew look around Launch Pad 39A on a tour. From left are Pad A Operations Manager David Sutherland (with United Space Alliance), Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi, Pad A Operations Chief Steve Leonhard, with United Space Alliance, Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas, Mission Commander Eileen Collins, Pilot James Kelly, and Mission Specialists Wendy Lawrence and Charles Camarda. Noguchi represents the Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency. The STS-114 mission is Logistics Flight 1, which is scheduled to deliver supplies and equipment plus the external stowage platform to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd1053

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-114 crew look around Launch Pad ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-114 crew look around Launch Pad 39A on a tour. From left are Pad A Operations Manager David Sutherland (with United Space Alliance), Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi, Pad... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload on their mission. In the foreground are Mission Specialists Rex Walheim (left) and Stan Love. The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. The other crew members are Commander Steve Frick, Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, who represents the European Space Agency. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Columbus European Laboratory. Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0062

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload on their miss... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Columbus European Laboratory, part of the payload on their mission. Here, Mission Specialist Rex Walheim closely examines a component of the laboratory. The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. The other crew members are Commander Steve Frick, Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Stan Love, Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, who represents the European Space Agency. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND). Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0059

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facili...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Columbus European Laboratory, part of the payload on their mission. Here, Mission Specialist Rex Walhe... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members get a close look at the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload on their mission. Seen here in the foreground are Mission Specialists Stan Love (left) and Rex Walheim. The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. The other crew members are Commander Steve Frick, Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, who represents the European Space Agency. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Columbus European Laboratory. Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0064

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members get a close look at the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members manipulate the cover on the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload on their mission. Seen here are Mission Specialist Rex Walheim (left) and Commander Steve Frick (right). The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. The other crew members are Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Stan Love, Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, who represents the European Space Agency. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Columbus European Laboratory. Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0063

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members manipulate the cover on the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payl... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members manipulate the cover on the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload on their mission. Seen here is (left) Mission Specialist Stan Love.. The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. Other crew members are Commander Steve Frick, Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Rex Walheim, Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, who represents the European Space Agency. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Columbus European Laboratory. Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0065

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facili...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members manipulate the cover on the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the pay... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Columbus European Laboratory, part of the payload on their mission. Seen here is Commander Steve Frick. The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. The other crew members are Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Rex Walheim, Stan Love, Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, who represents the European Space Agency. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND). Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0057

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Columbus European Laboratory, part of the payload on their mission. Seen here is Commander Steve Frick.... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After a ceremony to commemorate the transition of the historic Operations and Checkout (O&C) Building high bay for use by the Constellation Program, representatives from NASA, Lockheed Martin, Space Florida and the state of Florida look at the banner, unfurled by Kennedy Space Center Director Bill Parsons (center), spotlighting the Orion crew exploration vehicle that will be assembled in the O&C. From left are Russell Romanella, director of the International Space Station/Payload Processing Directorate at Kennedy Space Center; Thad Altman, representative of the State of Florida; Cleon Lacefield, Lockheed Martin program manager; Parsons; Steve Koller, executive director of Space Florida (turned away); and Skip Hatfield, Orion Project manager. Originally built to process space vehicles in the Apollo era, the O&C Building will serve as the final assembly facility for the Orion crew exploration vehicle. Orion, America's human spaceflight vehicle of the future, will be capable of transporting four crewmembers for lunar missions and later will support crew transfers for Mars missions. Each Orion spacecraft also may be used to support up to six crewmembers to the International Space Station after the space shuttle is retired in 2010. Design, development and construction of Orion's components will be performed by Lockheed Martin for NASA at facilities throughout the country. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0198

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After a ceremony to commemorate the tran...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After a ceremony to commemorate the transition of the historic Operations and Checkout (O&C) Building high bay for use by the Constellation Program, representatives from NASA, Lock... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Representatives from NASA, Lockheed Martin, Space Florida and the state of Florida are seated on stage at a ceremony to commemorate the transition of the historic Operations and Checkout (O&C) Building high bay for use by the Constellation Program. From left are Cleon Lacefield, Lockheed Martin program manager; Thad Altman, representative of the State of Florida; Bill Parsons, Kennedy Space Center director; Steve Koller, executive director of Space Florida; and Skip Hatfield, Orion Project manager. Representatives from NASA, Lockheed Martin, Space Florida and the state of Florida are seated on stage at a ceremony to commemorate the transition of the historic Operations and Checkout (O&C) Building high bay for use by the Constellation Program. From left are Cleon Lacefield, Lockheed Martin program manager; Thad Altman, representative of the State of Florida; Bill Parsons, Kennedy Space Center director; Steve Koller, executive director of Space Florida; and Skip Hatfield, Orion Project manager. Originally built to process space vehicles in the Apollo era, the O&C Building will serve as the final assembly facility for the Orion crew exploration vehicle. Orion, America's human spaceflight vehicle of the future, will be capable of transporting four crewmembers for lunar missions and later will support crew transfers for Mars missions. Each Orion spacecraft also may be used to support up to six crewmembers to the International Space Station after the space shuttle is retired in 2010. Design, development and construction of Orion's components will be performed by Lockheed Martin for NASA at facilities throughout the country. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0192

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Representatives from NASA, Lockheed Mart...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Representatives from NASA, Lockheed Martin, Space Florida and the state of Florida are seated on stage at a ceremony to commemorate the transition of the historic Operations and Ch... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Russell Romanella, director of the International Space Station/Payload Processing Directorate at Kennedy Space Center, addresses guests and attendees in the Operations and Checkout (O&C) Building high bay in the ceremony commemorating the bay's transition for use by the Constellation Program. Seated on the dais at right are Cleon Lacefield, Lockheed Martin program manager; Thad Altman, representative of the State of Florida; Bill Parsons, Kennedy Space Center director; Steve Koller, executive director of Space Florida; and Skip Hatfield, Orion Project manager. Originally built to process space vehicles in the Apollo era, the O&C Building will serve as the final assembly facility for the Orion crew exploration vehicle. Orion, America's human spaceflight vehicle of the future, will be capable of transporting four crewmembers for lunar missions and later will support crew transfers for Mars missions. Each Orion spacecraft also may be used to support up to six crewmembers to the International Space Station after the space shuttle is retired in 2010. Design, development and construction of Orion's components will be performed by Lockheed Martin for NASA at facilities throughout the country. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0194

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Russell Romanella, director of the Inter...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Russell Romanella, director of the International Space Station/Payload Processing Directorate at Kennedy Space Center, addresses guests and attendees in the Operations and Checkout... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Kennedy Space Center Director Bill Parsons addresses guests and attendees in the Operations and Checkout (O&C) Building high bay in the ceremony commemorating the bay's transition for use by the Constellation Program. Representatives from NASA, Lockheed Martin, Space Florida and the state of Florida are seated at right: Russell Romanella, director of the International Space Station/Payload Processing Directorate at Kennedy Space Center, Cleon Lacefield, Lockheed Martin program manager; Thad Altman, representative of the State of Florida; Steve Koller, executive director of Space Florida; and Skip Hatfield, Orion Project manager. Originally built to process space vehicles in the Apollo era, the O&C Building will serve as the final assembly facility for the Orion crew exploration vehicle. Orion, America's human spaceflight vehicle of the future, will be capable of transporting four crewmembers for lunar missions and later will support crew transfers for Mars missions. Each Orion spacecraft also may be used to support up to six crewmembers to the International Space Station after the space shuttle is retired in 2010. Design, development and construction of Orion's components will be performed by Lockheed Martin for NASA at facilities throughout the country. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0196

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Kennedy Space Center Director Bill Parso...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Kennedy Space Center Director Bill Parsons addresses guests and attendees in the Operations and Checkout (O&C) Building high bay in the ceremony commemorating the bay's transition ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Skip Hatfield, Orion Project manager, addresses guests and attendees in the Operations and Checkout (O&C) Building high bay in the ceremony commemorating the bay's transition for use by the Constellation Program. Seated on the dais at right are representatives from NASA, Lockheed Martin, Space Florida and the state of Florida: Russell Romanella, director of the International Space Station/Payload Processing Directorate at Kennedy Space Center, Cleon Lacefield, Lockheed Martin program manager; Thad Altman, representative of the State of Florida; Bill Parsons, director of Kennedy Space Center; and Steve Koller, executive director of Space Florida. Originally built to process space vehicles in the Apollo era, the O&C Building will serve as the final assembly facility for the Orion crew exploration vehicle. Orion, America's human spaceflight vehicle of the future, will be capable of transporting four crewmembers for lunar missions and later will support crew transfers for Mars missions. Each Orion spacecraft also may be used to support up to six crewmembers to the International Space Station after the space shuttle is retired in 2010. Design, development and construction of Orion's components will be performed by Lockheed Martin for NASA at facilities throughout the country. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0197

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Skip Hatfield, Orion Project manager, ad...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Skip Hatfield, Orion Project manager, addresses guests and attendees in the Operations and Checkout (O&C) Building high bay in the ceremony commemorating the bay's transition for u... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Ready to put spades to work at ground-breaking ceremonies for SpaceX's new Falcon 9 rocket launch facilities at Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral are (from left) Thad Altman, Florida State representative; Jeff Kottkamp, Florida State Lt. Governor; Elon Musk, founder and CEO of Space Exploration Technologies; Brig. Gen. Susan J. Helms, commander of the U.S. Air Force 45th Space Wing; Lynda Weatherman, Brevard County Economic Development Commission CEO and president; Steve Koehler, president of Space Florida; Janet Petro, deputy director of NASA Kennedy Space Center; Patricia Grace Smith, FAA associate administrator for Commercial Space Transportation; and Steve Cain, NASA Kennedy Space Center COTS project manager. As part of NASA’s Commercial Orbital Transportation Services, or COTS, competition, SpaceX will launch a Falcon 9 with a cargo-carrying payload on a series of three demonstration missions from Cape Canaveral to the International Space Station, culminating with the delivery of supplies to the $100 billion dollar orbiting laboratory. SpaceX intends to demonstrate its launch, maneuvering, berthing and return abilities by 2009 – a year before NASA has scheduled the conclusion of Space Shuttle operations. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3062

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Ready to put spades to work at ground-b...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Ready to put spades to work at ground-breaking ceremonies for SpaceX's new Falcon 9 rocket launch facilities at Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral are (from left) Thad Altm... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At ground-breaking ceremonies for SpaceX's new Falcon 9 rocket launch facilities at Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral, Steve Koehler, president of Space Florida, talks about the opportunity for both SpaceX and the 45th Space Wing that the new facility will provide As part of NASA’s Commercial Orbital Transportation Services, or COTS, competition, SpaceX will launch a Falcon 9 with a cargo-carrying payload on a series of three demonstration missions from Cape Canaveral to the International Space Station, culminating with the delivery of supplies to the $100 billion dollar orbiting laboratory. SpaceX intends to demonstrate its launch, maneuvering, berthing and return abilities by 2009 – a year before NASA has scheduled the conclusion of Space Shuttle operations. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3061

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At ground-breaking ceremonies for Space...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At ground-breaking ceremonies for SpaceX's new Falcon 9 rocket launch facilities at Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral, Steve Koehler, president of Space Florida, talks abo... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The astronauts assigned to the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew arrive at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a Gulfstream shuttle training aircraft to participate in three days of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. From left are Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts, a European Space Agency astronaut who will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16; Mission Specialists Stanley Love, Hans Schlegel of the European Space Agency, Rex Walheim and Leland Melvin; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Commander Steve Frick. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3333

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The astronauts assigned to the space sh...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The astronauts assigned to the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew arrive at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a Gulfstream shuttle training aircraft to parti... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The astronauts assigned to the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew arrive at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a Gulfstream shuttle training aircraft to participate in three days of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. STS-122 Launch Director Doug Lyons greets Mission Specialist Leland Melvin as Commander Steve Frick and Pilot Alan Poindexter look on. Disembarking are Mission Specialists Hans Schlegel of the European Space Agency, Stanley Love and Leopold Eyharts, a European Space Agency astronaut who will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3325

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The astronauts assigned to the space sh...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The astronauts assigned to the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew arrive at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a Gulfstream shuttle training aircraft to parti... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick, at the microphone, addresses the media at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility following his arrival to participate in three days of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. Other STS-122 crew members are, from left, Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts, a European Space Agency astronaut who will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16; Mission Specialists Stanley Love, Hans Schlegel of the European Space Agency, Rex Walheim and Leland Melvin; and Pilot Alan Poindexter. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3326

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commande...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick, at the microphone, addresses the media at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility following his arrival to participat... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The astronauts assigned to the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew arrive at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a Gulfstream shuttle training aircraft to participate in three days of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. STS-122 Launch Director Doug Lyons greets Pilot Alan Poindexter as Commander Steve Frick looks on. Disembarking are Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Rex Walheim, Hans Schlegel of the European Space Agency and Stanley Love. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3324

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The astronauts assigned to the space sh...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The astronauts assigned to the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew arrive at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a Gulfstream shuttle training aircraft to parti... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-122 crew poses for a group portrait near Launch Pad 39B during a training session on the operation of the M-113 armored personnel carrier. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of an emergency on the pad before their launch. From left are Mission Specialists Rex Walheim, Leopold Eyharts and Hans Schlegel of the European Space Agency, Stanley Love; Commander Steve Frick; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialist Leland Melvin. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3334

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-122 crew poses for a group port...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-122 crew poses for a group portrait near Launch Pad 39B during a training session on the operation of the M-113 armored personnel carrier. An M-113 will be available to t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A shuttle training aircraft, or STA, takes off from Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at dusk. The STA is being used for practice flights by space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick and Pilot Alan Poindexter. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. The training is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3366

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A shuttle training aircraft, or STA, ta...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A shuttle training aircraft, or STA, takes off from Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at dusk. The STA is being used for practice flights by space shuttle Atlantis ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter seems satisfied with the practice session he has just completed aboard a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. He and STS-122 Commander Steve Frick were practicing landing the STA in preparation for their upcoming mission. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. The training is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3370

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Pilot Al...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter seems satisfied with the practice session he has just completed aboard a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space C... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39A, members of the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew pose for a photo in front of the Columbus module during terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. Columbus was installed in the orbiter's payload bay on Nov. 11. From left, in clean room attire, are Commander Steve Frick; Mission Specialist Leland Melvin; former astronaut Jerry Ross, kneeling, chief of the Vehicle Integration Test Office at NASA Johnson Space Center; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialist Stanley Love. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The module is approximately 23 feet long and 15 feet wide, allowing it to hold 10 large racks of experiments. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3355

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39A, members of the space...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39A, members of the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew pose for a photo in front of the Columbus module during terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-122 crew poses for a group portrait near Launch Pad 39B following a training session on the operation of the M-113 armored personnel carrier. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of an emergency on the pad before their launch. From left are Mission Specialists Rex Walheim and Stanley Love; Commander Steve Frick; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Leopold Eyharts and Hans Schlegel. Eyharts and Schlegel are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3351

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-122 crew poses for a group port...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-122 crew poses for a group portrait near Launch Pad 39B following a training session on the operation of the M-113 armored personnel carrier. An M-113 will be available t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick disembarks from a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. He and STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter have just completed a practice session landing the STA. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. The training is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3367

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commande...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick disembarks from a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. He and STS-122 Pilot ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick prepares to practice shuttle landings. He is sitting in the cockpit of a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. The training is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3362

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commande...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick prepares to practice shuttle landings. He is sitting in the cockpit of a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the STS-122 crew receive a briefing inside an M-113 armored personnel carrier near Launch Pad 39B. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of an emergency on the pad before their launch. Seated on the bench at left is European Space Agency astronaut Frank De Winne, the backup for STS-122 Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts. Seated on the bench at right, from back to front are Commander Steve Frick; Mission Specialists Rex Walheim, Hans Schlegel of the European Space Agency, and Leland Melvin; and Pilot Alan Poindexter. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3335

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the STS-122 crew receive a b...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the STS-122 crew receive a briefing inside an M-113 armored personnel carrier near Launch Pad 39B. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the ev... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A shuttle training aircraft, or STA, prepares for takeoff from Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at dusk. The STA is being used for practice flights by space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick and Pilot Alan Poindexter. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. The training is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3365

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A shuttle training aircraft, or STA, pr...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A shuttle training aircraft, or STA, prepares for takeoff from Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at dusk. The STA is being used for practice flights by space shuttl... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick seems pleased with the practice session he has just completed aboard a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. He and STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter were practicing landing the STA in preparation for their upcoming mission. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. The training is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3368

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commande...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick seems pleased with the practice session he has just completed aboard a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space Cen... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39A, members of the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew view the Columbus module during terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. Columbus was installed in the orbiter's payload bay on Nov. 11. From left, in clean room attire, are former astronaut Jerry Ross, chief of the Vehicle Integration Test Office at NASA Johnson Space Center, Pilot Alan Poindexter and Commander Steve Frick. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The module is approximately 23 feet long and 15 feet wide, allowing it to hold 10 large racks of experiments. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3354

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39A, members of the space...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39A, members of the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew view the Columbus module during terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. Columbus was ins... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A shuttle training aircraft, or STA, sits on the tarmac at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at dusk, ready for practice flights by space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick and Pilot Alan Poindexter. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. The training is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3364

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A shuttle training aircraft, or STA, si...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A shuttle training aircraft, or STA, sits on the tarmac at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at dusk, ready for practice flights by space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Co... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter disembarks from a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. He and STS-122 Commander Steve Frick have just completed a practice session landing the STA. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. The training is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3369

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Pilot Al...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter disembarks from a shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. He and STS-122 Comman... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on slidewire basket operation, part of the emergency exit system on the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A. Seen here near the catch nets in the landing zone are, from left, Mission Specialists Leopold Eyharts, Hans Schlegel and Rex Walheim; Commander Steve Frick; Mission Specialists Stanley Love and Leland Melvin; and Pilot Alan Poindexter. Seven slidewire baskets are available to carry the crew from the level of the pad's Orbiter Access Arm to this landing site, if needed. Each basket can hold up to three people. A braking system catch net and drag chain slow, and then halt, the baskets as they travel down the wire at approximately 55 miles per hour. The journey takes about half a minute. A bunker is located in the landing zone 1,200 feet west of the pad, with an M-113 armored personnel carrier stationed nearby. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown before launch. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3392

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on slidewire basket operation, part of the emergency exit system on the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A. Se... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Gathered in the white room on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew pauses for a photo. Standing, from left, are Pilot Alan Poindexter, Commander Steve Frick and Mission Specialist Leland Melvin. Kneeling, center, is Mission Specialist Hans Schlegel. In the bottom row, from left, are Stanley Love, Rex Walheim and Leopold Eyharts. Schlegel and Eyharts are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown before launch. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3381

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Gathered in the white room on Launch Pa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Gathered in the white room on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew pauses for a photo. Standing, from left, are Pilot Alan Poindexter, Commander Steve Frick and... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew poses for a group photo following a press conference. From left are Commander Steve Frick; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Rex Walheim, Hans Schlegel, Stanley Love and Leopold Eyharts. Schlegel and Eyharts are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3380

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Laun...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew poses for a group photo following a press conference. From left are Commander Steve Fri... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on emergency exit from the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A. Clockwise, from left, are Mission Specialists Leopold Eyharts and Stanley Love, Eyharts' backup Frank De Winne, Mission Specialists Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, Pilot Alan Poindexter, Commander Steve Frick and Mission Specialist Rex Walheim with his back to the camera. Schlegel, Eyharts and De Winne are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown before launch. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3385

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on emergency exit from the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A. Clockwise, from left, are Mission Specialists L... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew poses for a group portrait at Launch Pad 39A as Atlantis undergoes final preparations for launch behind them. From left are Mission Specialists Hans Schlegel, Rex Walheim and Leland Melvin; Pilot Alan Poindexter; Commander Steve Frick; and Mission Specialists Stanley Love and Leopold Eyharts. Schlegel and Eyharts are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3371

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew poses for a group portrait at Launch Pad 39A as Atlantis undergoes final preparations for launch behind them. From left are Mission Specia... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick responds to a question from the media during a press conference at the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3373

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commande...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick responds to a question from the media during a press conference at the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A. The STS-12... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on the emergency exit system on Launch Pad 39A. Inside the bunker at the foot of the pad, from left, Mission Specialist Leland Melvin; astronaut Frank De Winne of the European Space Agency, backup for Expedition 16 Flight Engineer Leopold Eyharts; Mission Specialist Stanley Love; and Commander Steve Frick listen intently to their trainer. Seven slidewire baskets are available to carry the crew from the level of the pad's Orbiter Access Arm to a safe landing site below, if needed. Each basket can hold up to three people. A braking system catch net and drag chain slow, and then halt, the baskets as they travel down the wire at approximately 55 miles per hour. The journey takes about half a minute. A bunker is located in the landing zone 1,200 feet west of the pad, with an M-113 armored personnel carrier stationed nearby. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown before launch. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3398

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on the emergency exit system on Launch Pad 39A. Inside the bunker at the foot of the pad, from left, Mission Speciali... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on slidewire basket operation, part of the emergency exit system on the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A. From left, Mission Specialists Stanley Love and Hans Schlegel and Commander Steve Frick gain first-hand experience inside one of the baskets. Seven slidewire baskets are available to carry the crew from the level of the pad's Orbiter Access Arm to this landing site, if needed. Each basket can hold up to three people. A braking system catch net and drag chain slow, and then halt, the baskets as they travel down the wire at approximately 55 miles per hour. The journey takes about half a minute. A bunker is located in the landing zone 1,200 feet west of the pad, with an M-113 armored personnel carrier stationed nearby. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown before launch. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3393

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on slidewire basket operation, part of the emergency exit system on the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A. Fr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew responds to questions from the media. From left are Commander Steve Frick; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Rex Walheim (with the microphone), Hans Schlegel, Stanley Love and Leopold Eyharts. Schlegel and Eyharts are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3378

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Laun...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew responds to questions from the media. From left are Commander Steve Frick; Pilot Alan P... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew responds to questions from the media. From left are Commander Steve Frick; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Rex Walheim, Hans Schlegel (with the microphone), Stanley Love and Leopold Eyharts. Schlegel and Eyharts are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3379

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Laun...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew responds to questions from the media. From left are Commander Steve Frick; Pilot Alan P... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on slidewire basket operation, part of the emergency exit system on the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A. From left are Mission Specialists Stanley Love; Leopold Eyharts' backup, Frank De Winne; Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Commander Steve Frick, with his back to the camera. Schlegel, Eyharts and De Winne are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. Seven slidewire baskets are available to carry the crew from the level of the pad's Orbiter Access Arm to a safe landing site below, if needed. Each basket can hold up to three people. A braking system catch net and drag chain slow, and then halt, the baskets as they travel down the wire at approximately 55 miles per hour. The journey takes about half a minute. A bunker is located in the landing zone 1,200 feet west of the pad, with an M-113 armored personnel carrier stationed nearby. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown before launch. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3386

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew receives instruction on slidewire basket operation, part of the emergency exit system on the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A. Fr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During a training session on emergency exit from the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A, space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick, left, and Mission Specialist Leland Melvin watch a slidewire basket descend to the landing zone. Seven slidewire baskets are available to carry the crew from the level of the pad's Orbiter Access Arm to a safe landing site below, if needed. Each basket can hold up to three people. A braking system catch net and drag chain slow, and then halt, the baskets as they travel down the wire at approximately 55 miles per hour. The journey takes about half a minute. A bunker is located in the landing zone 1,200 feet west of the pad, with an M-113 armored personnel carrier stationed nearby. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown before launch. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3391

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During a training session on emergency ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During a training session on emergency exit from the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A, space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick, left, and Mission Specialist ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Gathered in the white room on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew members listen to an instructor explain space shuttle emergency exit procedures. From left are Mission Specialists Stanley Love, Hans Schlegel, Rex Walheim, Leland Melvin and Leopold Eyharts. Pilot Alan Poindexter and Commander Steve Frick are standing behind them. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown before launch. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3382

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Gathered in the white room on Launch Pa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Gathered in the white room on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew members listen to an instructor explain space shuttle emergency exit procedures. From left a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A, suit technicians prepare space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick for entry into Atlantis' cockpit, through the hatch behind him. The exercise is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The TCDT is a dress rehearsal for launch and also provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Atlantis' launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3427

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A, su...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A, suit technicians prepare space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick for entry into Atlantis' cockpit, through the hatch behind him. ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dressed in their launch and entry suits, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew leaves the Operations and Checkout Building for their trip to Launch Pad 39A aboard the astronaut van. From left are Mission Specialists Stanley Love, Leopold Eyharts, Leland Melvin, Hans Schlegel, and Rex Walheim; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Commander Steve Frick. Eyharts and Schlegel are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is preparing for a simulated launch countdown aboard Atlantis, part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The TCDT is a dress rehearsal for launch and also provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3418

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dressed in their launch and entry suits...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dressed in their launch and entry suits, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew leaves the Operations and Checkout Building for their trip to Launch Pad 39A aboard the astronaut ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A, suit technicians put the finishing touches on the flight and entry suit of space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick for his entry into Atlantis' cockpit, through the hatch behind him. The exercise is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The TCDT is a dress rehearsal for launch and also provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Atlantis' launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3428

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A, su...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A, suit technicians put the finishing touches on the flight and entry suit of space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick for his entry ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick arrives at Launch Pad 39A, dressed in his launch and entry suit, to participate in a simulated launch countdown aboard Atlantis. The exercise is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The TCDT is a dress rehearsal for launch and also provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Atlantis' launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3423

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commande...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick arrives at Launch Pad 39A, dressed in his launch and entry suit, to participate in a simulated launch countdown aboard Atlanti... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dressed in their launch and entry suits, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew greet the media and employees on hand to cheer them on as the leave the Operations and Checkout Building for Launch Pad 39A. Clockwise, from left front, are Pilot Alan Poindexter; Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Stanley Love, Leopold Eyharts, Hans Schlegel, and Rex Walheim; and Commander Steve Frick. Eyharts and Schlegel are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is preparing for a simulated launch countdown aboard Atlantis, part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The TCDT is a dress rehearsal for launch and also provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3416

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dressed in their launch and entry suits...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dressed in their launch and entry suits, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew greet the media and employees on hand to cheer them on as the leave the Operations and Checkout Bu... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter, left, and Commander Steve Frick practice emergency exit procedures in a slidewire basket at Launch Pad 39A following a simulated launch countdown. The exercise is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The TCDT is a dress rehearsal for launch and also provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Atlantis' launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3448

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Pilot Al...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter, left, and Commander Steve Frick practice emergency exit procedures in a slidewire basket at Launch Pad 39A following a simula... More

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