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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare to begin removing the quick disconnect from the ground umbilical carrier plate (GUCP) on space shuttle Discovery's external fuel tank. A hydrogen gas leak at that location during tanking for the STS-133 mission to the International Space Station caused the launch attempt to be scrubbed Nov. 5. The GUCP will be examined to determine the cause of the hydrogen leak and then repaired. The GUCP is the overboard vent to the pad and the flame stack where the vented hydrogen is burned off. Discovery's next launch attempt is targeted for no earlier than Nov. 30 at 4:02 a.m. EST. For more information on STS-133, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2010-5569

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 in Florida, workers prepare to begin removing the quick disconnect from the ground umbilical carrier plate (GUCP) on space shuttle Discov... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Sitting on top of the mobile launcher platform, Space Shuttle Atlantis is on its slow rollout to Launch Pad 39B. First motion out of the Vehicle Assembly Building was 1:05 a.m. The slow speed of the crawler results in a 6-hour trek to the pad approximately 4 miles away. Atlantis' launch window begins Aug. 27 for an 11-day mission to the International Space Station. The STS-115 crew of six astronauts will continue construction of the station and install their cargo, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd1705

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Sitting on top of the mobile launcher pl...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Sitting on top of the mobile launcher platform, Space Shuttle Atlantis is on its slow rollout to Launch Pad 39B. First motion out of the Vehicle Assembly Building was 1:05 a.m. Th... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Sitting on top of the mobile launcher platform, Space Shuttle Atlantis rolls out to Launch Pad 39B via the crawlerway. First motion out of the Vehicle Assembly Building was 1:05 a.m. The slow speed of the crawler results in a 6-hour trek to the pad approximately 4 miles away. Atlantis' launch window begins Aug. 27 for an 11-day mission to the International Space Station. The STS-115 crew of six astronauts will continue construction of the station and install their cargo, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd1706

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Sitting on top of the mobile launcher p...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Sitting on top of the mobile launcher platform, Space Shuttle Atlantis rolls out to Launch Pad 39B via the crawlerway. First motion out of the Vehicle Assembly Building was 1:05 ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis sits on the hardstand of Launch Pad 39B after its nearly 8-hour rollout from the Vehicle Assembly Building. The "beanie cap," at the end of the external tank gaseous oxygen vent arm, is extended over the top of the external tank. The cap is a vent hood that vacuums away the very cold liquid oxygen vapors as they boil off from the top of the external tank before launch. Lower down on the left is the orbiter access arm, with the White Room on the outer end, extended toward Atlantis' crew access hatch. Below the orbiter, on each side of the main engine nozzles, are the tail service masts that provide several umbilical connections to the orbiter, including a liquid-oxygen line through one and a liquid-hydrogen line through another. The slow speed of the crawler results in a 6- to 8-hour trek to the pad approximately 4 miles away. Atlantis' launch window begins Aug. 27 for an 11-day mission to the International Space Station. The STS-115 crew of six astronauts will continue construction of the station and install their cargo, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder & George Shelton KSC-06pd1722

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis sits on the har...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis sits on the hardstand of Launch Pad 39B after its nearly 8-hour rollout from the Vehicle Assembly Building. The "beanie cap," at the end of the external ta... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After its overnight rollout from the Vehicle Assembly Building, Space Shuttle Atlantis rests on the hard stand on Launch Pad 39B. The shuttle sits on top of the mobile launcher platform. The crawler, which transported it, is still underneath. To the left is the rotating service structure, with the payload changeout room (PCR) open. When the shuttle's payload is transported to the pad, it will be lifted into the PCR, the service structure will rotate to enclose the shuttle and the payload will be installed in Atlantis' payload bay. The slow speed of the crawler results in a 6-hour trek to the pad approximately 4 miles away. Atlantis' launch window begins Aug. 27 for an 11-day mission to the International Space Station. The STS-115 crew of six astronauts will continue construction of the station and install their cargo, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd1715

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After its overnight rollout from the Ve...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After its overnight rollout from the Vehicle Assembly Building, Space Shuttle Atlantis rests on the hard stand on Launch Pad 39B. The shuttle sits on top of the mobile launcher ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After its overnight rollout from the Vehicle Assembly Building, Space Shuttle Atlantis rests on the hard stand on Launch Pad 39B. The shuttle sits on top of the mobile launcher platform. The crawler, which transported it, is still underneath. The slow speed of the crawler results in a 6-hour trek to the pad approximately 4 miles away. Atlantis' launch window begins Aug. 27 for an 11-day mission to the International Space Station. The STS-115 crew of six astronauts will continue construction of the station and install their cargo, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd1714

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After its overnight rollout from the Ve...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After its overnight rollout from the Vehicle Assembly Building, Space Shuttle Atlantis rests on the hard stand on Launch Pad 39B. The shuttle sits on top of the mobile launcher ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers are attaching an overhead crane to the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) in order to lift it. The module is being moved to a stand where it will be weighed and measured for its center of gravity. The Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency developed the laboratory at the Tsukuba Space Center near Tokyo. It is the first element, named "Kibo" (Hope), to be delivered to KSC. The JEM is Japan's primary contribution to the International Space Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments. The JEM is targeted for mission STS-124, to launch in early 2008. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2493

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers are attaching an overhead crane to the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) in order to lift it. The module is being moved to a stan... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility bay 2, the orbiter boom sensor system (in the background) is lowered into the open payload bay of Endeavour. The boom will be installed in the payload bay for launch. The orbiter is scheduled to fly on mission STS-118 to the International Space Station in the summer of 2007. It will deliver the third starboard truss segment, S5. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd0799

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility bay 2, ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility bay 2, the orbiter boom sensor system (in the background) is lowered into the open payload bay of Endeavour. The boom will be installed in the pay... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, space shuttle Discovery is ready to be lifted into high bay 1. In the bay, Discovery will be mated with the external tank and solid rocket boosters waiting on the mobile launcher platform. Discovery is targeted for launch to the International Space Station for mission STS-120 on Oct. 23. The crew will be delivering and installing the Italian-built U.S. Node 2, named Harmony. The pressurized module will act as an internal connecting port and passageway to additional international science labs and cargo spacecraft. In addition to increasing the living and working space inside the station, it also will serve as a work platform outside for the station's robotic arm. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd2550

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, space shuttle Discovery is ready to be lifted into high bay 1. In the bay, Discovery will be mated with the external tank and solid rocket ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. --- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the last set of three solid rocket boosters are being mated to the Delta II rocket for the launch of NASA's Gamma-ray Large Area Space Telescope, or GLAST. Because the Delta rocket is configured as a Delta II 7920 Heavy, the boosters are larger than those used on the standard configuration. The GLAST is a powerful space observatory that will explore the Universe's ultimate frontier, where nature harnesses forces and energies far beyond anything possible on Earth; probe some of science's deepest questions, such as what our Universe is made of, and search for new laws of physics; explain how black holes accelerate jets of material to nearly light speed; and help crack the mystery of stupendously powerful explosions known as gamma-ray bursts. Launch is currently planned in a window between 11:45 a.m. and 1:40 p.m. May 16. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd0896

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. --- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at C...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. --- In the mobile service tower on Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the last set of three solid rocket boosters are being mated to the Delta II rocket for the launc... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, workers continue to secure the Orbiter Transport System, or OTS, under space shuttle Discovery. The OTS will help move the orbiter on its rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building. Discovery is targeted to launch May 31 on the STS-124 mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Discovery will transport the Kibo Japanese Experiment Module - Pressurized Module (JEM-PM) and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System (JEM-RMS) to the space station to add to the Kibo laboratory. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd0972

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, workers continue to secure the Orbiter Transport System, or OTS, under space shuttle Discovery. The OTS will help mo... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Getting ready for the STS-124 mission, space shuttle Discovery, atop a mobile launch platform, begins rollout to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The 3.4-mile journey from the Vehicle Assembly Building began at 11:47 p.m. on May 2. After arriving at the pad, the shuttle was secured, or hard down, at 6:06 a.m. EDT May 3. On the 13-day mission, Discovery and its crew will deliver the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd1099

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Getting ready for the STS-124 mission, space s...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Getting ready for the STS-124 mission, space shuttle Discovery, atop a mobile launch platform, begins rollout to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The 3.4-mile journey from... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the sun rises upon the arrival of space shuttle Discovery, secured atop the mobile launch platform below, at Launch Pad 39A to begin prelaunch processing for the STS-124 mission. The 3.4-mile journey from the Vehicle Assembly Building began at 11:47 p.m. on May 2. The shuttle arrived at the launch pad at 4:25 a.m. EDT May 3 and was secured, or hard down, by 6:06 a.m. On the 13-day mission, Discovery and its crew will deliver the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd1110

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the sun rises ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the sun rises upon the arrival of space shuttle Discovery, secured atop the mobile launch platform below, at Launch Pad 39A to begin prelaunch processing ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the rotating service structure begins rolling on its axis to uncover space shuttle Discovery in preparation for launch on the STS-124 mission. Support for the outer end of the bridge is provided by two eight-wheel, motor-driven trucks (one is seen at bottom left) that move along circular twin rails installed flush with the pad surface. First motion was at 8:33 p.m. and rollback was complete at 9:07 p.m. The structure provides protected access to the shuttle for changeout and servicing of payloads at the pad. It is supported by a rotating bridge that pivots on a vertical axis on the west side of the pad's flame trench. After the RSS is rolled back, the orbiter is ready for fuel cell activation and external tank cryogenic propellant loading operations. The pad is cleared to the perimeter gate for operations to fill the external tank with about 500,000 gallons of cryogenic propellants used by the shuttle’s main engines. This is done at the pad approximately eight hours before the scheduled launch. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Launch is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd1500

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the rotating service structure begins rolling on its axis to uncover space shuttle Discovery in preparation for launch on the STS-124 ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers install the final solar array wing for the International Space Station onto the S6 truss element. Scheduled to launch 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. Launch is targeted for Feb. 12, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd2053

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NAS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers install the final solar array wing for the International Space Station onto the S6 truss element. Schedule... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, technicians attach a crane to the Soft Capture Mechanism (SCM), part of the Soft Capture and Rendezvous System, or SCRS. The SCM will be lifted and transferred to the stand holding the Flight Support System, or FSS, carrier, where the SCM will be mated to the FSS. The SCRS will enable the future rendezvous, capture and safe disposal of NASA's Hubble Space Telescope by either a crewed or robotic mission. The ring-like device attaches to Hubble’s aft bulkhead. The SCRS greatly increases the current shuttle capture interfaces on Hubble, therefore significantly reducing the rendezvous and capture design complexities associated with the disposal mission. The FSS will join the Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment, or MULE, carrier, the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier and the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier as payload on space shuttle Atlantis's STS-125 mission. The payload is scheduled to go to Launch Pad 39A in mid-September to be installed into Atlantis' payload bay. Atlantis is targeted to launch Oct. 8 at 1:34 a.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd2435

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, technicians attach a crane to the Soft Capture Mechanism (SCM), part of the Soft Capture and Rendezvous System,... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Experiments are placed inside the FASTRACK Space Experiment Platform viewed in the Life Science Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The space experiment rack is under development for flight aboard NASA's first commercially-provided research flights on Zero Gravity Corporation's reduced gravity aircraft. It is being developed jointly by Kennedy and Space Florida to facilitate NASA and commercial use of reusable U.S. suborbital flight vehicles currently under development. FASTRACK will enable investigators to test experiments, apparatus and analytical techniques in hardware compatible with the International Space Station, and to perform science that can be carried out during the reduced gravity available for brief periods during aircraft parabolas. Flight testing of the FASTRACK will be performed on four consecutive days between September 9-12 from Ellington Field near NASA's Johnson Space Center, Houston. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd2581

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Experiments are placed inside the FASTRACK Spa...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Experiments are placed inside the FASTRACK Space Experiment Platform viewed in the Life Science Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The space experiment rack is under development fo... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians in the Life Science Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center work on the FASTRACK Space Experiment Platform. The rack is designed to support two standard lockers that fit inside the space shuttle's crew middeck. It is being developed jointly by Kennedy and Space Florida to facilitate NASA and commercial use of reusable U.S. suborbital flight vehicles currently under development. FASTRACK will enable investigators to test experiments, apparatus and analytical techniques in hardware compatible with the International Space Station, and to perform science that can be carried out during the reduced gravity available for brief periods during aircraft parabolas. Flight testing of the FASTRACK will be performed on four consecutive days between September 9-12 from Ellington Field near NASA's Johnson Space Center, Houston. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd2578

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians in the Life Science Building at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians in the Life Science Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center work on the FASTRACK Space Experiment Platform. The rack is designed to support two standard lockers that fit insi... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After rolling out of Orbiter Processing Facility 2, space shuttle Endeavour turns toward the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. In the VAB, Endeavour will be attached to its external fuel tank and twin solid rocket boosters. After additional preparations are made, the shuttle will be rolled out to Launch Pad 39B. Endeavour is the backup shuttle, if needed for rescue, for space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-125 mission to NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope targeted for October. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd2603

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After rolling out of Orbiter Processing Facilit...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After rolling out of Orbiter Processing Facility 2, space shuttle Endeavour turns toward the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. In the VAB, Endeavour will be attach... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - An aerial view of the Launch Complex at NASA's Kennedy Space Center shows space shuttle Atlantis, preparing for its launch on the STS-125 mission to repair NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, targeted for Oct. 10. The shuttle rests on the mobile launcher platform, which is straddling the flame trench (in the foreground). The lighted structure at right is the fixed service structure, with the 80-foot lightning mast on top. In the background is the Banana River. This is the first time since July 2001 that two shuttles are on the launch pads at the same time at the center. Endeavour rolled out earlier to Launch Pad 39B. Endeavour will stand by at pad B in the unlikely event that a rescue mission is necessary during space shuttle Atlantis' upcoming mission to repair NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, targeted to launch Oct. 10. After Endeavour is cleared from its duty as a rescue spacecraft, it will be moved to Launch Pad 39A for the STS-126 mission to the International Space Station. That flight is targeted for launch Nov. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd2684

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - An aerial view of the Launch Complex at NASA's...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - An aerial view of the Launch Complex at NASA's Kennedy Space Center shows space shuttle Atlantis, preparing for its launch on the STS-125 mission to repair NASA's Hubble Space Telescope,... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload canister arrives beneath the payload changeout room in the rotating service structure (left). Space shuttle Atlantis is at right. The two tail service masts on the mobile launcher platform flank the engines in front of the wings. The canister carries a cargo of four carriers holding various equipment for the STS-125 mission aboard Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. At the pad, the cargo will be moved into the Payload Changeout Room. The changeout room is the enclosed, environmentally controlled portion of the rotating service structure that supports cargo delivery to the pad and subsequent vertical installation into the shuttle’s payload bay. Launch of Atlantis is targeted for Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd2785

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, the payload canister arrives beneath the payload changeout room in the rotating service structure (left). Space shuttle Atla... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers in a clean room of the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, or PHSF, check the controls on the payload canister with the Hubble Space Telescope equipment inside. The payload comprises four carriers holding various equipment for the mission. The canister maintains a controlled environment. In the PHSF, the carriers will be stored until a new target launch date can be set for Atlantis’ STS-125 mission in 2009. Atlantis’ October target launch date was delayed after a device on board Hubble used in the storage and transmission of science data to Earth shut down on Sept. 27. Replacing the broken device will be added to Atlantis’ servicing mission to the telescope. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3194

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers in a clean room of the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, or PHSF, check the controls on the payload canister with the Hubble Space ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload canister with the Hubble Space Telescope equipment moves into the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, or PHSF. The payload comprises four carriers holding various equipment for the mission. The canister maintains a controlled environment. In the PHSF, the carriers will be stored until a new target launch date can be set for Atlantis’ STS-125 mission in 2009. Atlantis’ October target launch date was delayed after a device on board Hubble used in the storage and transmission of science data to Earth shut down on Sept. 27. Replacing the broken device will be added to Atlantis’ servicing mission to the telescope. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3189

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload canister with the Hubble Space Telescope equipment moves into the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, or PHSF. The payload compri... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo is lowered toward a scale to calculate its weight for launch. Leonardo is part of space shuttle Endeavour's payload on the STS-126 mission to the International Space Station. After the weighing, the module will be installed in the waiting payload canister for transfer to Launch Pad 39A. At the pad, the payload canister will release its cargo into the Payload Changeout Room. Later, the payload will be installed in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The module contains supplies and equipment, including additional crew quarters, equipment for the regenerative life support system and spare hardware. Endeavour is targeted for launch on Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3296

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo is lowered toward a scale to calculate its weight for laun... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour begins rolling off Launch Pad 39B for the 3.4-mile rollaround to Launch Pad 39A. First motion was at 8:28 a.m. EDT. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14 on the STS-126 mission. On this 27th mission to the International Space Station, Endeavour will carry the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier and the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo that will hold supplies and equipment, including additional crew quarters, additional exercise equipment, spare hardware and equipment for the regenerative life support system. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3354

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour begins rolling off Launch Pad 39B for the 3.4-mile rollaround to Launch Pad 39A. First motion was at 8:28 a.m. EDT. En... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson adjusts his headset before donning his helmet. He will enter space shuttle Endeavour to take part in a simulated launch countdown with the other crew members. 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/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3429

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-126 Commander Chris Ferguson adjusts his headset before donning his helmet. He will enter space shutt... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialists Sandra Magnus, Shane Kimbrough and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper pause for a photo after emergency escape procedures following a simulated launch countdown. 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/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3447

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 in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialists Sandra Magnus, Shane Kimbrough and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper pause for a photo after emergency... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers from NASA's Glenn Research Center remove the blue shrink-wrapped covers on these Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments. The protective covers were used for shipping. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. The segments will simulate the mass and the outer mold line and will be more than 100 feet of the total vehicle height of 327 feet. The simulator comprises 11 segments that are approximately 18 feet in diameter. Most of the segments will be approximately 10 feet high, ranging in weight from 18,000 to 60,000 pounds, for a total of approximately 450,000 pounds. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3569

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers from NASA's Glenn Research Center remove the blue shrink-wrapped covers on these Ares I... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, these Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments have shed their protective blue shrink-wrapped covers used for shipping. The upper stage simulator will be used in the test flight identified as Ares I-X in 2009. The segments will simulate the mass and the outer mold line and will be more than 100 feet of the total vehicle height of 327 feet. The simulator comprises 11 segments that are approximately 18 feet in diameter. Most of the segments will be approximately 10 feet high, ranging in weight from 18,000 to 60,000 pounds, for a total of approximately 450,000 pounds. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3570

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, these Ares I-X upper stage simulator segments have shed their protective blue shrink-wrapped c... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Tugboats maneuver the Pegasus barge into place at the dock in the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Pegasus, carrying the external tank 130, arrived in Florida after an ocean voyage towed by a solid rocket booster retrieval ship from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans. The fuel tank will be offloaded and transported to the VAB. External tank 130 is the one designated for space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch on May 15. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3902

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Tugboats maneuver the Pegasus barge into pla...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Tugboats maneuver the Pegasus barge into place at the dock in the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Pegasus, carrying th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Tugboats maneuver the Pegasus barge close to the dock in the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Pegasus, carrying the external tank 130, arrived in Florida after an ocean voyage towed by a solid rocket booster retrieval ship from NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans. The fuel tank will be offloaded and transported to the VAB. External tank 130 is the one designated for space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch on May 15. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3901

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Tugboats maneuver the Pegasus barge close to...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Tugboats maneuver the Pegasus barge close to the dock in the turn basin near the Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Pegasus, carrying the ext... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane is being lowered to attach to the SEDA-AP (Space Environment Data Acquisition Equipment-Attached Payload). The payload will be installed on the Japanese Experiment Module's Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The SEDA-AP and ELM-ES are part of space shuttle Endeavour's payload for the STS-127 mission. SEDA-AP will measure space environment in ISS orbit and environmental effects on materials and electronic devices to investigate the interaction with and from the environment at the Kibo exposed facility. Endeavour is targeted to launch May 15. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-1057

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane is being lowered to attach to the SEDA-AP (Space Environment Data Acquisition Equipm... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers lift the Kepler spacecraft from a work stand in preparation for mating it to a Delta II third stage. Kepler is designed to survey more than 100,000 stars in our galaxy to determine the number of sun-like stars that have Earth-size and larger planets, including those that lie in a star's "habitable zone," a region where liquid water, and perhaps life, could exist. If these Earth-size worlds do exist around stars like our sun, Kepler is expected to be the first to find them and the first to measure how common they are. The liftoff of Kepler aboard a Delta II rocket is currently targeted for 10:48 p.m. EST March 5 from Space Launch Complex 17 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-1647

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrote...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Hazardous Processing Facility at Astrotech in Titusville, Fla., workers lift the Kepler spacecraft from a work stand in preparation for mating it to a Delta II third stage. Kepler... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lifted by a crane from the transporter. The aft section will be moved to a stand. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-1670

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended dur...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lifted by a crane ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lowered onto a stand in the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-1671

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft sectio...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator aft section is lowered onto a stand in the Vehicle Assembly Building's extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florid... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers watch closely as a crane lifts the fifth segment simulator center from the transporter. The segment is being moved to supports on the floor. Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-1708

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the extended duration orbiter lab, or EDO, of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers watch closely as a crane lifts the fifth segment simulat... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Russian AH-124-100 aircraft arrives at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's skid strip in Florida carrying the Centaur stage of the Atlas V rocket that will launch NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, or LRO, and NASA's Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite, known as LCROSS. The two spacecraft will be integrated with the Atlas V and tested for final flight worthiness. Launch is scheduled for the spring. LCROSS and LRO are the first missions in NASA's plan to return humans to the moon and begin establishing a lunar outpost by 2020. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-1756

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Russian AH-124-100 aircraft arrives at Cape...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Russian AH-124-100 aircraft arrives at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's skid strip in Florida carrying the Centaur stage of the Atlas V rocket that will launch NASA's Lunar Reconnai... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., technicians prepare to move the GOES-O satellite onto a special stand for loading of its oxidizer and hydrazine propellants. The latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, GOES-O was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. The GOES satellites continuously provide observations of 60 percent of the Earth including the continental United States, providing weather monitoring and forecast operations as well as a continuous and reliable stream of environmental information and severe weather warnings. Once in orbit, GOES-O will be designated GOES-14, and NASA will provide on-orbit checkout and then transfer operational responsibility to NOAA. The GOES-O satellite is targeted to launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station's Launch Complex 37 no earlier than May 12 onboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV expendable launch vehicle. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-2576

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility in...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla., technicians prepare to move the GOES-O satellite onto a special stand for loading of its oxidizer and hydrazine propellan... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A Fire Rescue Services vehicle stands by as space shuttle Discovery touches down on Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to complete the 13-day, 5.3-million mile journey on the STS-119 mission to the International Space Station. 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/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-2363

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A Fire Rescue Services vehicle stands by as spa...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A Fire Rescue Services vehicle stands by as space shuttle Discovery touches down on Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to complete the 13-day, 5.3-million mile journey on... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X center forward segment is secured onto a stand after the segment's removal from the transporter in the foreground. The booster used for the Ares I-X launch is being modified by adding new forward structures and a fifth segment simulator. The stacking operations are scheduled to begin in the Vehicle Assembly Building in April. Launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-2502

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X center forward segment is secured onto a stand after the segment's removal from the... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour is lowered into High Bay 1 toward the mobile launcher platform for attachment to the external tank and solid rocket boosters already installed on the platform. Endeavour is scheduled to roll out to Launch Pad 39B on April 17. Endeavour will be prepared on the pad for liftoff in the unlikely event that a rescue mission is necessary following space shuttle Atlantis' launch on the STS-125 mission to service the Hubble Space Telescope. After Atlantis is cleared to land, Endeavour will move to Launch Pad 39A for its upcoming STS-127 mission to the International Space Station, targeted to launch in mid-June. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-2622

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour is lowered into High Bay 1 toward the mobile launcher platform for attachment to the ex... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X forward segment leaves the Rotation, Surge and Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It is being transported to the Vehicle Assembly Building for mating with the aft center and aft segments already stacked.Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for no earlier than Aug. 30. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-4156

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X forward segment leaves the Rotat...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X forward segment leaves the Rotation, Surge and Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It is being transported to the Vehicle Assembly Building for ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crawler-transporter delivers space shuttle Discovery atop the mobile launcher platform onto Launch Pad 39A. The shuttle nears the flame trench, which channels the flames and smoke exhaust of the shuttle's solid rocket boosters away from the space shuttle during liftoff. Traveling from the Vehicle Assembly Building, the shuttle took nearly 12 hours on the journey as technicians stopped several times to clear mud from the crawler's treads and bearings caused by the waterlogged crawlerway. First motion out of the VAB was at 2:07 a.m. EDT Aug. 4. Rollout was delayed approximately 2 hours due to lightning in the area. Discovery's 13-day flight will deliver a new crew member and 33,000 pounds of equipment to the International Space Station. The equipment includes science and storage racks, a freezer to store research samples, a new sleeping compartment and the COLBERT treadmill. Launch of Discovery on its STS-128 mission is targeted for late August. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-4422

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crawler-transporter delivers space shuttle Discovery atop the mobile launcher platform onto Launch Pad 39A. The shuttle nears the flame tren... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An aerial view of the site in the Industrial Area of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida where a solar power system is being built. The solar power systems are being constructed by NASA and Florida Power & Light Company as part of a public-private partnership that promotes a clean-energy future. This site located on 10 acres will produce about one megawatt of electricity for Kennedy to use. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-5011

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An aerial view of the site in the Industrial Ar...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An aerial view of the site in the Industrial Area of NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida where a solar power system is being built. The solar power systems are being constructed by NAS... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This aerial view shows NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Control Center at left and Vehicle Assembly Building at right. The Launch Control Center recently had installed new hurricane-rated window systems in the four Firing Rooms. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-5001

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This aerial view shows NASA Kennedy Space Cent...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This aerial view shows NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Control Center at left and Vehicle Assembly Building at right. The Launch Control Center recently had installed new hurricane-r... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, a second stabilizing arm is lifted for installation at the top of the fixed service structure. The hardware is being reconfigured for launch of NASA's Ares I-X rocket, part of the agency's Constellation Program. The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for Oct. 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-5103

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B,...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39B, a second stabilizing arm is lifted for installation at the top of the fixed service structure. The hardware is being reconfigured for lau... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space shuttle Atlantis, secured to the yellow framework of a sling, is suspended vertically over the transfer aisle in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Next, Atlantis will be lifted over a transom and lowered onto a mobile launch platform in high bay 1. It then will be attached to an external fuel tank and pair of solid rocket boosters already secured to the platform. Rollout of the completed shuttle stack to Kennedy’s Launch Pad 39A, a significant milestone in launch processing activities, is planned for Oct. 13. Liftoff of Atlantis on its STS-129 mission to the International Space Station is targeted for 4:04 p.m. EST Nov. 12 during a 10-minute launch window. For information on the STS-129 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-5341

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space shuttle Atlantis, secured to the yellow f...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space shuttle Atlantis, secured to the yellow framework of a sling, is suspended vertically over the transfer aisle in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Flor... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the gaseous nitrogen tank in space shuttle Discovery's payload bay is attached to a "fish pole" lifting fixture and ready to be hoisted out of the bay. The tank is being removed during processing for the shuttle's STS-131 mission to the International Space Station. The tanks are used for atmosphere conditioning and for moving potable water in the crew module. The seven-member STS-131 crew will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module filled with science racks to be transferred to laboratories on the station. Three spacewalks will include work to attach a spare ammonia tank assembly to the station's exterior and return a European experiment from outside the station's Columbus module. This will be the 33rd shuttle mission to the station. Launch is targeted for March 18, 2010. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-6100

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the gaseous nitrogen tank in space shuttle Discovery's payload bay is attached to a "fish pole" lifting fix... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the gaseous nitrogen tank has been removed from space shuttle Discovery's payload bay during processing for the shuttle's STS-131 mission to the International Space Station. The tanks are used for atmosphere conditioning and for moving potable water in the crew module. The seven-member STS-131 crew will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module filled with science racks to be transferred to laboratories on the station. Three spacewalks will include work to attach a spare ammonia tank assembly to the station's exterior and return a European experiment from outside the station's Columbus module. This will be the 33rd shuttle mission to the station. Launch is targeted for March 18, 2010. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-6102

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the gaseous nitrogen tank has been removed from space shuttle Discovery's payload bay during processing for... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance workers lower a "fish pole" lifting fixture toward space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. The fixture will be used to remove the gaseous nitrogen pressure tank during processing for the shuttle's STS-131 mission to the International Space Station. The tanks are used for atmosphere conditioning and for moving potable water in the crew module. The seven-member STS-131 crew will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module filled with science racks to be transferred to laboratories on the station. Three spacewalks will include work to attach a spare ammonia tank assembly to the station's exterior and return a European experiment from outside the station's Columbus module. This will be the 33rd shuttle mission to the station. Launch is targeted for March 18, 2010. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-6097

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance workers lower a "fish pole" lifting fixture toward space shuttle Discovery's payload ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - After nightfall on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, xenon lights reveal space shuttle Atlantis awaiting launch on its mobile launcher platform. Liftoff of the STS-129 mission is set for 2:28 p.m. EST Nov. 16. The pad's rotating service structure, at left, which provides weather protection and access for technicians to work on the shuttle, began being retracted at 5:20 p.m. EST and was in the park position by 5:56 p.m. On STS-129, the crew will deliver to the International Space Station two Express Logistics Carriers, the largest of the shuttle's cargo carriers, containing 15 spare pieces of equipment including two gyroscopes, two nitrogen tank assemblies, two pump modules, an ammonia tank assembly and a spare latching end effector for the station's robotic arm. Atlantis will return to Earth a station crew member, Nicole Stott, who has spent more than two months aboard the orbiting laboratory. STS-129 is slated to be the final space shuttle Expedition crew rotation flight. For information on the STS-129 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-6303

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - After nightfall on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - After nightfall on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, xenon lights reveal space shuttle Atlantis awaiting launch on its mobile launcher platform. Liftoff of the ST... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The second stage of a Delta IV rocket is prepared for hoisting into a test cell to begin checkout in the hangar of the Delta Operations Center at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. The United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket is the vehicle slated to launch GOES-P, the latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. A meteorological satellite, GOES-P is designed to watch for storm development and observed current weather conditions on Earth. Launch of GOES-P is scheduled for no earlier than Feb. 25, 2010, from Launch Complex 37. For information on GOES-P, visit http://goespoes.gsfc.nasa.gov/goes/spacecraft/n_p_spacecraft.html. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-6407

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The second stage of a Delta IV rocket is prepar...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The second stage of a Delta IV rocket is prepared for hoisting into a test cell to begin checkout in the hangar of the Delta Operations Center at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Flori... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - This juvenile green sea turtle is ready to swim off into the waters of the Banana River at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A recent cold snap left this turtle and nearly 2,000 others "stunned" and in need of help. Many of the turtles were rescued from the Mosquito Lagoon, with others coming from the Indian River Lagoon and Cocoa Beach. Biologists, environmentalists, wildlife experts and other volunteers joined forces with a massive rescue effort at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, where the turtles were identified, examined and transported to rehabilitation facilities throughout Florida and South Georgia. The animals stayed at these facilities until local waters warmed up to safe temperatures. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2010-1269

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - This juvenile green sea turtle is ready to swim...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - This juvenile green sea turtle is ready to swim off into the waters of the Banana River at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A recent cold snap left this turtle and nearly 2,000 oth... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Wildlife personnel prepare to release several endangered green sea turtles into the waters of the Banana River at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The turtles were some of nearly 2,000 that were "stunned" by the recent drop in temperatures. Many of the turtles were rescued from the Mosquito Lagoon, with others coming from the Indian River Lagoon and Cocoa Beach. Biologists, environmentalists, wildlife experts and other volunteers joined forces with a massive rescue effort at the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, where the turtles were identified, examined and transported to rehabilitation facilities throughout Florida and South Georgia. The animals stayed at these facilities until local waters warmed up to safe temperatures. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2010-1260

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Wildlife personnel prepare to release several e...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Wildlife personnel prepare to release several endangered green sea turtles into the waters of the Banana River at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The turtles were some of nearly 2... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the first stage of the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket arrives at Launch Complex-40's horizontal processing hangar. Once assembled, it will be a two-stage fully integrated launch vehicle, consisting of a first stage powered by nine SpaceX-developed Merlin 1C engines, a second stage, an interstage, an unpressurized trunk and the Dragon spacecraft qualification unit. SpaceX was awarded procurement for three demonstration flights under the Commercial Orbital Transportation Services, or COTS, program managed by NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston. A subsequent contract for Commercial Resupply Services, or CRS, was awarded in late 2008 to resupply the International Space Station. The SpaceX CRS contract provides for 12 missions to resupply the station from 2011 through 2015. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2010-4345

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, the first stage of the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket arrives at Launch Complex-40's horizontal processing hangar. Once assembled, it will be a tw... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-133 payload canister now is in the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39A. A sign hanging on the fence in front of the pad entrance supporting space shuttle Discovery is seen through the tred from a crawler-transporter. The payload then will be moved into space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. 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 4:40 p.m. EDT, Nov. 1. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2010-5024

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-133 payload canister now is in the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39A. A sign hanging on the fence in front of the pad entran... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, xenon lights illuminate space shuttle Discovery on Launch Pad 39A following the retraction of the rotating service structure. The structure provides weather protection and access to the shuttle while it awaits lift off on the pad. Launch of Discovery on the STS-133 mission to the International Space Station is set for 3:29 p.m. on Nov. 4. During the 11-day mission, Discovery and its six crew members will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, to the orbiting laboratory. Discovery, which will fly its 39th mission, is scheduled to be retired following STS-133. This will be the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. For more information on STS-133, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2010-5489

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, xenon lights illuminate space shuttle Discovery on Launch Pad 39A following the retraction of the rotating service structure. The structure pro... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- From the Press Site parking lot at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the sun sets over the Launch Complex 39 area shadowing the Operations Support Building II, left, Operations Support Building I, Processing Control Center, Vehicle Assembly Building and Launch Control Center. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2010-5723

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- From the Press Site parking lot at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- From the Press Site parking lot at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the sun sets over the Launch Complex 39 area shadowing the Operations Support Building II, left, Operations Sup... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of an emergency escape training team perform a simulated evacuation exercise at Launch Pad 39A. For several days, volunteers portraying astronauts, take part in training exercises which allow teams to practice emergency response procedures, including helicopter evacuation to local hospitals. Training normally involves NASA fire rescue personnel, personnel from the Air Force's 920th Rescue Wing, and medical trauma teams from central Florida hospitals, and is required every 18 months to certify Fire Rescue and Closeout Crew personnel. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-1410

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of an emergency escape training team perform a simulated evacuation exercise at Launch Pad 39A. For several days, volunteers ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of an emergency escape training team perform a simulated evacuation exercise in the bunkers behind the slidewire basket landing site. For several days, volunteers portraying astronauts, take part in training exercises which allow teams to practice emergency response procedures, including helicopter evacuation to local hospitals. Training normally involves NASA fire rescue personnel, personnel from the Air Force's 920th Rescue Wing, and medical trauma teams from central Florida hospitals, and is required every 18 months to certify Fire Rescue and Closeout Crew personnel. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-1425

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 in Florida, members of an emergency escape training team perform a simulated evacuation exercise in the bunkers behind the slidewire bask... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, two large cranes will assist in the removal of Launch Pad 39B's fixed service structure FSS and rotating service structure RSS. The FSS and RSS were designed to support the unique needs of the Space Shuttle Program. In 2009, the pad was no longer needed for the shuttle program, so it is being restructured for future use. Its new design will feature a "clean pad" for rockets to come with their own launcher, making it more versatile for a number of vehicles. The transformation also includes the refurbishment of the liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen tanks and the upgrade of about 1.3 million feet of cable. The new lightning protection system, which was in place for the October 2009 launch of Ares I-X, will remain. For information on NASA's future plans, visit www.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-2365

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, two large cranes will assist in the removal of Launch Pad 39B's fixed service structure FSS and rotating service structure RSS. The FSS and RSS... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a large crane makes its way up to the surface of Launch Pad 39B to assist in the removal of the fixed service structure FSS. Removal of the pad's rotating service structure RSS continues. The FSS and RSS were designed to support the unique needs of the Space Shuttle Program. In 2009, the pad was no longer needed for the shuttle program, so it is being restructured for future use. Its new design will feature a "clean pad" for rockets to come with their own launcher, making it more versatile for a number of vehicles. The transformation also includes the refurbishment of the liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen tanks and the upgrade of about 1.3 million feet of cable. The new lightning protection system, which was in place for the October 2009 launch of Ares I-X, will remain. For information on NASA's future plans, visit www.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-2361

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a large crane makes its way up to the surface of Launch Pad 39B to assist in the removal of the fixed service structure FSS. Removal of the pad... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove shuttle Discovery's right-hand orbital maneuvering system, or OMS, pod. The removal is part of Discovery's transition and retirement processing. Work performed on Discovery is expected to help rocket designers build next-generation spacecraft and prepare the shuttle for future public display. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-2995

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove shuttle Discovery's right-hand orbital maneuvering system, or OMS, pod. The removal is part of ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, technicians carry away the Load Control Assembly-2 (LCA-2) after it was removed from inside space shuttle Endeavour's aft section. Located in the orbiter's aft avionics bay 5, the LCA-2 assembly, which feeds power to the fuel line heaters, is believed to have caused the heaters for Endeavour's auxiliary power unit-1 (APU-1) to fail April 29 during the first launch attempt for the STS-134 mission. The assembly will be replaced and systems will be retested before the launch is rescheduled. STS-134 will deliver the Express Logistics Carrier-3, Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer-2 (AMS), a high-pressure gas tank and additional spare parts for the Dextre robotic helper to the International Space Station. The mission also will be the final spaceflight for Endeavour. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-3263

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, technicians carry away the Load Control Assembly-2 (LCA-2) after it was removed from inside space shuttle Endeavour's aft section. Located ... More

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- The sunrise casts a haze over the Shuttle Landing Facility and the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where the arrival of NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) first three elements are being delivered by an Air Force C-17 cargo plane. The cruise stage, back shell and heat shield, the first flight elements to arrive for the MSL mission, were taken to the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF) located in the KSC Industrial Area to begin processing. The Curiosity rover will arrive next month. A United Launch Alliance Atlas V-541 configuration will be used to loft MSL into space. Curiosity’s 10 science instruments are designed to search for evidence on whether Mars has had environments favorable to microbial life, including chemical ingredients for life. The unique rover will use a laser to look inside rocks and release its gasses so that the rover’s spectrometer can analyze and send the data back to Earth. MSL is scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida Nov. 25 with a window extending to Dec. 18 and arrival at Mars Aug. 2012. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/msl. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-3492

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- The sunrise casts a haze over the Shuttle Land...

Cape Canaveral, Fla. -- The sunrise casts a haze over the Shuttle Landing Facility and the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where the arrival of NASA's Mars Science Laborator... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Workers load onto a transporter a container holding the heat shield, one of the first three elements for NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), that arrived at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. The cruise stage, back shell and heat shield, the first flight elements to arrive for the MSL mission, were taken to the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF) located in the KSC Industrial Area to begin processing. The Curiosity rover will arrive next month. A United Launch Alliance Atlas V-541 configuration will be used to loft MSL into space. Curiosity’s 10 science instruments are designed to search for evidence on whether Mars has had environments favorable to microbial life, including chemical ingredients for life. The unique rover will use a laser to look inside rocks and release its gasses so that the rover’s spectrometer can analyze and send the data back to Earth. MSL is scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida Nov. 25 with a window extending to Dec. 18 and arrival at Mars Aug. 2012. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/msl. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-3502

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Workers load onto a transporter a container ho...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Workers load onto a transporter a container holding the heat shield, one of the first three elements for NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL), that arrived at NASA Kennedy Space Center's... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, shuttle Atlantis is lifted by an overhead crane and moved into a high bay where it will be attached to its external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters already on the mobile launcher platform. Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandra Magnus and Rex Walheim are expected to launch in mid-July, taking with them the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies, logistics and spare parts. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing spacecraft and return 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/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-3805

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, shuttle Atlantis is lifted by an overhead crane and moved into a high bay where it will be attached to its ext... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-135 Commander Chris Ferguson and Pilot Doug Hurley take off from the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to perform touch-and-go landings aboard their Shuttle Training Aircrafts (STA). An STA is a Gulfstream II jet that is modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Ferguson and Hurley will practice landings as part of standard training before space shuttle Atlantis' launch to the International Space Station. Atlantis and its crew are targeted to lift off July 8, to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return 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/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-4664

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-135 Commander Chris Ferguson and Pilot Dou...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-135 Commander Chris Ferguson and Pilot Doug Hurley take off from the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to perform touch-and-go landings aboard... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-135 Pilot Doug Hurley prepares to perform touch-and-go landings aboard one of two Shuttle Training Aircrafts (STA) on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. An STA is a Gulfstream II jet that is modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Ferguson and Hurley will practice landings as part of standard training before space shuttle Atlantis' launch to the International Space Station. Atlantis and its crew are targeted to lift off July 8, to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return 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/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-4657

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-135 Pilot Doug Hurley prepares to perform ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-135 Pilot Doug Hurley prepares to perform touch-and-go landings aboard one of two Shuttle Training Aircrafts (STA) on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Cent... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On a cloudy and overcast day on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the rotating service structure (RSS) slowly rolls away revealing space shuttle Atlantis. The RSS provides weather protection and access to the shuttle while it awaits liftoff. RSS "rollback" marks a major milestone in Atlantis' STS-135 mission countdown. Atlantis and its crew of four; Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim, are scheduled to lift off at 11:26 a.m. EDT on July 8 to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space 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/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-5138

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On a cloudy and overcast day on Launch Pad 39A...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On a cloudy and overcast day on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the rotating service structure (RSS) slowly rolls away revealing space shuttle Atlantis. The RSS... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Atlantis is revealed on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida following the move of the rotating service structure (RSS). The structure provides weather protection and access to the shuttle while it awaits liftoff on the pad. RSS "rollback" marks a major milestone in Atlantis' STS-135 mission countdown. Atlantis and its crew of four; Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim, are scheduled to lift off at 11:26 a.m. EDT on July 8 to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space 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/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-5157

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Atlantis is revealed on Launch P...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Atlantis is revealed on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida following the move of the rotating service structure (RSS). The structure provides weather ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A forklift transfers the multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generator (MMRTG) for NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) mission from the airlock of the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to the MMRTG trailer. The MMRTG is enclosed in a mesh container, known as the "gorilla cage," which protects it during transport and allows any excess heat generated to dissipate into the air. The MMRTG is being moved to the RTG storage facility following a fit check on MSL's Curiosity rover in the PHSF. The MMRTG will generate the power needed for the mission from the natural decay of plutonium-238, a non-weapons-grade form of the radioisotope. Heat given off by this natural decay will provide constant power through the day and night during all seasons. MSL's components include a compact car-sized rover, Curiosity, which has 10 science instruments designed to search for signs of life, including methane, and help determine if the gas is from a biological or geological source. Waste heat from the MMRTG will be circulated throughout the rover system to keep instruments, computers, mechanical devices and communications systems within their operating temperature ranges. Launch of MSL aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket is targeted for Nov. 25 from Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/msl. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-6726

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A forklift transfers the multi-mission radiois...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A forklift transfers the multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generator (MMRTG) for NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) mission from the airlock of the Payload Hazardous Servicing ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generator (MMRTG) for NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) mission is lifted from the MMRTG trailer at the RTG storage facility (RTGF) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The MMRTG is enclosed in a mesh container, known as the "gorilla cage," which protects it during transport and allows any excess heat generated to dissipate into the air. The MMRTG is returning to the RTGF following a fit check on MSL's Curiosity rover in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF). The MMRTG will generate the power needed for the mission from the natural decay of plutonium-238, a non-weapons-grade form of the radioisotope. Heat given off by this natural decay will provide constant power through the day and night during all seasons. MSL's components include a compact car-sized rover, Curiosity, which has 10 science instruments designed to search for signs of life, including methane, and help determine if the gas is from a biological or geological source. Waste heat from the MMRTG will be circulated throughout the rover system to keep instruments, computers, mechanical devices and communications systems within their operating temperature ranges. Launch of MSL aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket is targeted for Nov. 25 from Space Launch Complex 41 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/msl. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-6733

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generator (MMRTG) for NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) mission is lifted from the MMRTG trailer at the RTG storage facility (RTGF) at NA... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Under a feather-painted sky, Space Shuttle Atlantis, mounted on a mobile launch platform atop a crawler transporter, creeps up the ramp to Launch Pad 39A. This is the second rollout for the shuttle. First motion out of the Vehicle Assembly Building was at 5:02 a.m. EDT. In late February, while Atlantis was on the launch pad, Atlantis' external tank received hail damage during a severe thunderstorm that passed through the Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39 area. The hail caused visible divots in the giant tank's foam insulation, as well as minor surface damage to about 26 heat shield tiles on the shuttle's left wing. The shuttle was returned to the VAB for repairs. The launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-117 is now targeted for June 8. A flight readiness review will be held on May 30 and 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd1196

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Under a feather-painted sky, Space Shut...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Under a feather-painted sky, Space Shuttle Atlantis, mounted on a mobile launch platform atop a crawler transporter, creeps up the ramp to Launch Pad 39A. This is the second roll... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On a cloudy and overcast day on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare to roll the rotating service structure (RSS) away from space shuttle Atlantis. The RSS provides weather protection and access to the shuttle while it awaits liftoff. RSS "rollback" marks a major milestone in Atlantis' STS-135 mission countdown. Atlantis and its crew of four; Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim, are scheduled to lift off at 11:26 a.m. EDT on July 8 to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space 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/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-5122

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On a cloudy and overcast day on Launch Pad 39A...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On a cloudy and overcast day on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare to roll the rotating service structure (RSS) away from space shuttle Atlantis. T... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Employees check out space shuttle Atlantis after it was uncovered on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida following the move of the rotating service structure (RSS). The structure provides weather protection and access to the shuttle while it awaits liftoff on the pad. RSS "rollback" marks a major milestone in Atlantis' STS-135 mission countdown. Atlantis and its crew of four; Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim, are scheduled to lift off at 11:26 a.m. EDT on July 8 to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space 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/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-5147

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Employees check out space shuttle Atlantis aft...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Employees check out space shuttle Atlantis after it was uncovered on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida following the move of the rotating service structure (RSS). ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians prepare a working model of the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, for the media to check out before space shuttle Discovery's final flight on the STS-133 mission. Discovery and its six-member crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 to the International Space Station. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo Credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-1646

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians prepare a working model of the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, for the media to check out before space shuttle Dis... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery looms against the pre-dawn, cloud-streaked sky as it makes the slow 3.4-mile journey to Launch Pad 39A. The shuttle sits atop the mobile launcher platform, which are being moved by the massive crawler-transporter beneath. First motion out of the Vehicle Assembly Building was at 5:17 a.m. EST. Discovery is targeted to launch to the International Space Station Feb. 12. During Discovery's 14-day mission, the crew will install the S6 truss segment and its solar arrays to the starboard side of the station, completing the station's backbone, or truss, enabling a six-person crew to live there starting in May. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-1119

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery looms against the pre-...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery looms against the pre-dawn, cloud-streaked sky as it makes the slow 3.4-mile journey to Launch Pad 39A. The shuttle sits atop the mobile launcher platform, which... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, emergency rescue worker tend to "injured astronauts" during a simulated emergency landing of a shuttle crew. Known as a Mode VI exercise, the operation uses volunteer workers from the Center to pose as astronauts. The purpose of the simulation is to exercise emergency preparedness personnel, equipment and facilities in rescuing astronauts from a downed orbiter and providing immediate medical attention. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd0518

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, emergency rescue worker tend to "injured astronauts" during a simulated emergency landing of a shuttle crew. Known as a ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis, atop the mobile launcher platform, sits on Launch Pad 39B after a nearly 8-hour crawl from the Vehicle Assembly Building. At left is the open rotating service structure and fixed service structure with the 80-foot lightning mast on top. Extended from the fixed structure is the orbiter access arm, with the White Room adjacent to Atlantis. At right is the 290-foot high, 300,000- gallon water tank that aids in sound suppression during launch. The water releases just prior to the ignition of the shuttle engines and flows through 7-foot-diameter pipes for about 20 seconds, pouring into 16 nozzles atop the flame deflectors and from outlets in the main engines exhaust hole in the mobile launcher platform. Atlantis' launch window begins Aug. 27 for an 11-day mission to the International Space Station. The STS-115 crew of six astronauts will continue construction of the station and install their cargo, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder & George Shelton KSC-06pd1725

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis, atop the mobil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis, atop the mobile launcher platform, sits on Launch Pad 39B after a nearly 8-hour crawl from the Vehicle Assembly Building. At left is the open rotating se... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Menacing storm clouds roll through the Launch Complex 39 Area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. In the background is the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the foreground is the lower parking lot for the NASA News Center where the media's vehicles and satellite trucks are situated the day before (L-1) the second scheduled launch attempt for Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-115. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2071

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Menacing storm clouds roll through the L...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Menacing storm clouds roll through the Launch Complex 39 Area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. In the background is the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the foreground is the lower p... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Space Station Processing Facility, technicians secure the protective coverings on the SPACEHAB Module before it is transferred to the Payload Canister. The SPACEHAB Module will carry racks of experiments, flight hardware, spacewalk equipment and supplies to support mission STS-116 to the International Space Station. STS-116 will be mission number 20 to the station and construction flight 12A.1. Along with SPACEHAB, the mission payload on Space Shuttle Discovery includes the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. The launch window opens Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2443

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Space Station Processing Fac...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Space Station Processing Facility, technicians secure the protective coverings on the SPACEHAB Module before it is transferred to the Payload Canister. The SPACEHAB Mod... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, an overhead crane begins lowering the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) onto a weighing stand. The module will also be measured for its center of gravity. The Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency developed the laboratory at the Tsukuba Space Center near Tokyo. It is the first element, named "Kibo" (Hope), to be delivered to KSC. The JEM is Japan's primary contribution to the International Space Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments. The JEM is targeted for mission STS-124, to launch in early 2008. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2498

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, an overhead crane begins lowering the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM) onto a weighing stand. The module will also be measured for its c... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians lower the THEMIS spacecraft onto the Delta II upper stage booster. Once mated, the spacecraft will then be installed into its transportation canister and moved to Launch Complex 17 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station for mating with the Delta II. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 Pad 17-B. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd0191

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technici...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Astrotech Space Operations, technicians lower the THEMIS spacecraft onto the Delta II upper stage booster. Once mated, the spacecraft will then be installed into its transport... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations, workers prepare to join the upper cylindrical canister to the lower panels already in place around the THEMIS spacecraft and upper stage booster. When completely enclosed, THEMIS will be transported to Launch Complex 17-B for mating with its launch vehicle. THEMIS consists of five identical probes, the largest number of scientific satellites ever launched into orbit aboard a single rocket. This unique constellation of satellites will resolve the tantalizing mystery of what causes the spectacular sudden brightening of the aurora borealis and aurora australis - the fiery skies over the Earth's northern and southern polar regions. THEMIS is scheduled to launch Feb. 15 from Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station aboard a Boeing Delta II rocket managed by the United Launch Alliance. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd0212

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the high bay at Astrotech Space Ope...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the high bay at Astrotech Space Operations, workers prepare to join the upper cylindrical canister to the lower panels already in place around the THEMIS spacecraft and upper ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility bay 2, the orbiter boom sensor system is lifted from its stand for installation in Endeavour. The orbiter is scheduled to fly on mission STS-118 to the International Space Station in the summer of 2007. It will deliver the third starboard truss segment, S5. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd0796

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility bay 2, ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility bay 2, the orbiter boom sensor system is lifted from its stand for installation in Endeavour. The orbiter is scheduled to fly on mission STS-118 t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Under a feather-painted sky, Space Shuttle Atlantis, mounted on a mobile launch platform atop a crawler transporter, nears Launch Pad 39A. This is the second rollout for the shuttle. First motion out of the Vehicle Assembly Building was at 5:02 a.m. EDT. In late February, while Atlantis was on the launch pad, Atlantis' external tank received hail damage during a severe thunderstorm that passed through the Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39 area. The hail caused visible divots in the giant tank's foam insulation, as well as minor surface damage to about 26 heat shield tiles on the shuttle's left wing. The shuttle was returned to the VAB for repairs. The launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-117 is now targeted for June 8. A flight readiness review will be held on May 30 and 31. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd1193

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Under a feather-painted sky, Space Shut...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Under a feather-painted sky, Space Shuttle Atlantis, mounted on a mobile launch platform atop a crawler transporter, nears Launch Pad 39A. This is the second rollout for the shutt... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 17-B, at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare NASA's Dawn spacecraft mated to the Delta II upper stage booster, for hoisting up into the mobile service tower. Dawn will be mated with the Delta II launch vehicle. Dawn is the ninth mission in NASA's Discovery Program. The spacecraft will be the first to orbit two planetary bodies, asteroid Vesta and dwarf planet Ceres, during a single mission. Vesta and Ceres lie in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. It is also NASA's first purely scientific mission powered by three solar electric ion propulsion engines. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder. KSC-07pd1658

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 17-B, at Cape Canaveral A...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 17-B, at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers prepare NASA's Dawn spacecraft mated to the Delta II upper stage booster, for hoisting up into the mobile service ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the top of Launch Pad 17-B, at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers help to guide NASA’s Dawn spacecraft into position for stacking with the Delta II launch vehicle. Launch is scheduled for July 7. Dawn is the ninth mission in NASA's Discovery Program. The spacecraft will be the first to orbit two planetary bodies, asteroid Vesta and dwarf planet Ceres, during a single mission. Vesta and Ceres lie in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. It is also NASA’s first purely scientific mission powered by three solar electric ion propulsion engines. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder. KSC-07pd1660

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the top of Launch Pad 17-B, at Cape ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the top of Launch Pad 17-B, at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, workers help to guide NASA’s Dawn spacecraft into position for stacking with the Delta II launch vehicle. Launc... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- NASA's Dawn spacecraft moves out of the Astrotech facility in Titusville, Fla., for transportation to Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and mate to the Delta II launch vehicle. Launch is scheduled for July 7. Dawn is the ninth mission in NASA's Discovery Program. The spacecraft will be the first to orbit two planetary bodies, asteroid Vesta and dwarf planet Ceres, during a single mission. Vesta and Ceres lie in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. It is also NASA's first purely scientific mission powered by three solar electric ion propulsion engines. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder. KSC-07pd1654

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- NASA's Dawn spacecraft moves out of the...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- NASA's Dawn spacecraft moves out of the Astrotech facility in Titusville, Fla., for transportation to Launch Pad 17-B at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, and mate to the Delta II... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen from the back side, the orbiter Endeavour hangs vertically above the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building. It will be lifted into the upper levels of the Vehicle Assembly Building , moved laterally over a crossbeam to high bay 1 and stacked with the external tank and solid rocket boosters on the mobile launcher platform. Endeavour will be launched on mission STS-118, its first flight in more than four years. The shuttle has undergone extensive modifications, including the addition of safety upgrades already added to shuttles Discovery and Atlantis. Endeavour also features new hardware, such as the Station-to-Shuttle Power Transfer System that will allow the docked shuttle to draw electrical power from the station and extend its visits to the orbiting lab. Endeavour is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd1767

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen from the back side, the orbiter E...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seen from the back side, the orbiter Endeavour hangs vertically above the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building. It will be lifted into the upper levels of the Vehicle... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers attach a crane to the heat shield for the Phoenix Mars Lander spacecraft. The crane will lift and move the heat shield for installation over the lander within the cruise stage. Targeted for launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on Aug. 3, Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd2008

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Fac...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers attach a crane to the heat shield for the Phoenix Mars Lander spacecraft. The crane will lift and move the heat shield for i... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers remove the covering over the heat shield (foreground) for the Phoenix Mars Lander spacecraft before installation. Targeted for launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on Aug. 3, Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd2006

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Fac...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, workers remove the covering over the heat shield (foreground) for the Phoenix Mars Lander spacecraft before installation. Targeted f... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the heat shield for the Phoenix Mars Lander spacecraft is lowered onto the spacecraft. Targeted for launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on Aug. 3, Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd2012

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Faci...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the heat shield for the Phoenix Mars Lander spacecraft is lowered onto the spacecraft. Targeted for launch from Cape Canaveral Air For... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. --In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the heat shield for the Phoenix Mars Lander spacecraft is moved toward the spacecraft. Targeted for launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station on Aug. 3, Phoenix will land in icy soils near the north polar permanent ice cap of Mars and explore the history of the water in these soils and any associated rocks, while monitoring polar climate. Landing on Mars is planned in May 2008 on arctic ground where a mission currently in orbit, Mars Odyssey, has detected high concentrations of ice just beneath the top layer of soil. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd2011

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. --In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. --In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility, the heat shield for the Phoenix Mars Lander spacecraft is moved toward the spacecraft. Targeted for launch from Cape Canaveral Air Forc... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On its transporter, external tank No. 125 moves toward the Vehicle Assembly Building in the background. The tank arrived at the Launch Complex 39 Area turn basin on the Pegasus barge from the Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans. The external tank will be used on space shuttle Atlantis for mission STS-122 targeted for launch on Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd2466

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On its transporter, external tank No. 12...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On its transporter, external tank No. 125 moves toward the Vehicle Assembly Building in the background. The tank arrived at the Launch Complex 39 Area turn basin on the Pegasus bar... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, space shuttle Discovery is lowered next to the external tank and solid rocket boosters already installed on the mobile launcher platform. Discovery is targeted for launch to the International Space Station for mission STS-120 on Oct. 23. The crew will be delivering and installing the Italian-built U.S. Node 2, named Harmony. The pressurized module will act as an internal connecting port and passageway to additional international science labs and cargo spacecraft. In addition to increasing the living and working space inside the station, it also will serve as a work platform outside for the station's robotic arm. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd2557

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, s...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, space shuttle Discovery is lowered next to the external tank and solid rocket boosters already installed on the mobile launcher platform. Dis... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, space shuttle Discovery is lowered closer to the external tank in high bay 1. Discovery will be mated with the external tank and solid rocket boosters waiting on the mobile launcher platform. Discovery is targeted for launch to the International Space Station for mission STS-120 on Oct. 23. The crew will be delivering and installing the Italian-built U.S. Node 2, named Harmony. The pressurized module will act as an internal connecting port and passageway to additional international science labs and cargo spacecraft. In addition to increasing the living and working space inside the station, it also will serve as a work platform outside for the station's robotic arm. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd2556

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, s...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, space shuttle Discovery is lowered closer to the external tank in high bay 1. Discovery will be mated with the external tank and solid rocke... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view of the underside of space shuttle Discovery as it is lifted above the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building. Discovery will be moved into high bay 1 for mating with the external tank and solid rocket boosters waiting on the mobile launcher platform. Discovery is targeted for launch to the International Space Station for mission STS-120 on Oct. 23. The crew will be delivering and installing the Italian-built U.S. Node 2, named Harmony. The pressurized module will act as an internal connecting port and passageway to additional international science labs and cargo spacecraft. In addition to increasing the living and working space inside the station, it also will serve as a work platform outside for the station's robotic arm. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-07pd2551

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view of the underside of space shutt...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view of the underside of space shuttle Discovery as it is lifted above the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building. Discovery will be moved into high bay 1 for mating ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, an overhead crane moves the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section, or ELM-PS, of the Japanese Experiment Module, called Kibo, across the facility toward a payload canister at right for eventual transfer to Launch Pad 39A. The ELM-PS is the primary payload for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission, which is targeted for launch to the International Space Station on March 11. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton, Troy Cryder KSC-08pd0255

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, an overhead crane moves the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section, or ELM-PS, of the Japanese Exp... More

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