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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- While performing touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe enjoyed a perfect sunset over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Lindsey and Boe flew two Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA), which are Gulfstream II business jets modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.      Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5136

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- While performing touch-and-go landings over th...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- While performing touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe enjoyed a perfect sunset over NASA's Kennedy Space Cen... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) performs touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe are flying two Gulfstream II business jets that are modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.        Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2010-5124

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-133 crew members receive instruction on the operation of the pad's slidewire basket system emergency exit training as part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). Inside the basket are Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, left, and Michael Barratt.    TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5162

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the fit of their orange launch-and-entry suits and helmets before launch day is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.      Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5183

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott is sui...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the f... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott checks out her mission's payload while at Launch Pad 39A for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT).     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/Jim Grossmann KSC-2010-5225

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott checks out her mission's payload while at Launch Pad 39A for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott, left, is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway after arriving in a T-38 training jet. In the days leading up to their launch to the International Space Station, Stott and her crew members will check the fit of their launch-and-entry suits, review launch-day procedures, receive weather briefings and remain medically quarantined to prevent sickness.      Scheduled to lift off Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m., Discovery and 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 orbiting outpost. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5342

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 Discovery's STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott, left, is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach on the Shuttle Lan... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew, left, jokes around with Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway after arriving in a T-38 training jet. Looking on are Chief of the Vehicle Integration Test Office at Johnson Space Center Jerry Ross and STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe. In the days leading up to their launch to the International Space Station, Drew and his crew members will check the fit of their launch-and-entry suits, review launch-day procedures, receive weather briefings and remain medically quarantined to prevent sickness.      Scheduled to lift off Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m., Discovery and 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 orbiting outpost. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5350

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 Discovery's STS-133 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew, left, jokes around with Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach on the Shuttle L... More

CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe guides the Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) in touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway. The Gulfstream II business jet is modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing.         Space shuttle Discovery's crew members are at Kennedy for their upcoming launch to the International Space Station. In the days leading up to lift off, they will check the fit of their spacesuits, review launch-day procedures, receive weather briefings and remain medically quarantined to prevent sickness. STS-133 will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5361

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

CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe guides the Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) in touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway. The Gulfstream ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, known as Robonaut, is on display for media. Robonaut 2 (R2) will be delivered to the International Space Station on space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 mission. Although R2 will initially only participate in operational tests, upgrades could eventually allow the robot to realize its true purpose -- helping spacewalking astronauts with tasks outside the orbiting laboratory.            For more information on the upcoming STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5422

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, known as Robonaut, is on display for media. Robonaut 2 (R2) will be delivered to the International Space... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- From the Banana River Creek VIP viewing area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is seenlifting off from Launch Pad 39A on its final mission to the International Space Station.          Discovery lifted off at 4:53 p.m. EST on Feb. 24. The six-member STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the station. This is the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Cooper KSC-2011-1651

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- From the Banana River Creek VIP viewing area a...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- From the Banana River Creek VIP viewing area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is seenlifting off from Launch Pad 39A on its final mission to the Interna... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery's liftoff from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a picturesque, warm, late February afternoon is witnessed by news media representatives near the countdown clock at the Press Site. Launch of the STS-133 mission was at 4:53 p.m. EST on Feb. 24.       Discovery and its six-member crew are on a mission to 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. Discovery is making its 39th mission and is scheduled to be retired following STS-133. This is the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the 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-2011-1639

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery's liftoff from Launch P...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery's liftoff from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a picturesque, warm, late February afternoon is witnessed by news media representatives ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, thousands of workers, their friends and families, and members of the news media are near the Launch Complex 39 Press Site to watch space shuttle Discovery embark on its final scheduled mission.       Liftoff is set for 4:50 p.m. EST on Feb. 24. Discovery and its six-member 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. 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 the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2011-1611

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, thousands of workers, their friends and families, and members of the news media are near the Launch Complex 39 Press Site to watch space shuttl... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the White Room at Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance spacesuit technicians help STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe put on the parachute for his launch-and-entry suit before he enters space shuttle Discovery through the crew hatch in the background. Boe last piloted space shuttle Endeavour during its STS-126 mission back in 2008.    Scheduled to lift off Feb. 24 at 4:50 p.m. EST, Discovery and its crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. 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 the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/.  Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph and Kevin O'Connell KSC-2011-1634

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the White Room at Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance spacesuit technicians help STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe put on the parachute for his launch-... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery ignites for liftoff from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, beginning its final flight, the STS-133 mission, to the International Space Station. Launch was at 4:53 p.m. EST.          Discovery and its six-member 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 orbiting outpost. Discovery is flying on its 39th mission and is scheduled to be retired following STS-133. This is the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Rusty Backer and Michael Gayle KSC-2011-1744

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery ignites for liftoff fr...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery ignites for liftoff from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, beginning its final flight, the STS-133 mission, to the International Space Sta... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery's boosters ignite and main engines start beginning its final scheduled mission, STS-133, to the International Space Station. Liftoff from launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida occurred at 4:53 p.m. EST on Feb. 24.             Discovery and its six-member crew are on a mission to 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. Discovery is making its 39th mission and is scheduled to be retired following STS-133. This is the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission, the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station and Discovery's final mission. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kenny Allen KSC-2011-1729

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery's boosters ignite and ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery's boosters ignite and main engines start beginning its final scheduled mission, STS-133, to the International Space Station. Liftoff from launch Pad 39A at NASA's... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Cruisers out of Port Canaveral, Fla., are in position to get a special treat as they witness space shuttle Discovery make history by lifting off on its final scheduled mission from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.          Liftoff is set for 4:50 p.m. EST on Feb. 24. Discovery and its six-member 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. 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 the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2011-1631

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Cruisers out of Port Canaveral, Fla., are in p...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Cruisers out of Port Canaveral, Fla., are in position to get a special treat as they witness space shuttle Discovery make history by lifting off on its final scheduled mission from Launc... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building (O&C) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the astronauts of space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 crew put on their launch-and-entry suits and check the fit of their helmets and gloves before heading to the Astrovan for the ride to Launch Pad 39A. Mission Specialist Nicole Stott, seen here, spent 91 days aboard the International Space Station in 2009 as a crew member of Expeditions 20 and 21.         Scheduled to lift off Feb. 24 at 4:50 p.m. EST, Discovery and its crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. 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 the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/.  Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-1595

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building (O&C) a...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building (O&C) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the astronauts of space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 crew put on their launch-and-entry suits and c... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Streams of smoke trail from the main landing gear tires as space shuttle Discovery touches down on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida after 13-days in space, completing the 5.3-million-mile STS-133 mission. Main gear touchdown was at 11:57:17 a.m., followed by nose gear touchdown at 11:57:28, and wheelstop at 11:58:14 a.m. On board are Commander Steve Lindsey, Pilot Eric Boe, and Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, Michael Barratt, Alvin Drew and Steve Bowen.              Discovery and its six-member crew delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Linda Perry KSC-2011-2082

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Streams of smoke trail from the main landing ge...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Streams of smoke trail from the main landing gear tires as space shuttle Discovery touches down on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida afte... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery, attached to a purge unit that pumps conditioned air into the shuttle while it is towed, approaches Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.  Behind the processing bays is the 525-foot-tall Vehicle Assembly Building.  Discovery touched down on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at 11:57 a.m., bringing an end to its 39th and final spaceflight mission, STS-133. Discovery and its six-member STS-133 crew delivered 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.    Inside the processing facility, Discovery will be prepared for future public display.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2011-2163

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery, attached to a purge un...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery, attached to a purge unit that pumps conditioned air into the shuttle while it is towed, approaches Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA Kennedy Space Center workers watch as space shuttle Discovery rolls to a stop on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility in Florida. Landing was at 11:57 a.m. EST, completing the 13-day STS-133 mission to the International Space Station. Main gear touchdown was at 11:57:17 a.m., followed by nose gear touchdown at 11:57:28, and wheelstop at 11:58:14 a.m. On board are Commander Steve Lindsey, Pilot Eric Boe, and Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, Michael Barratt, Alvin Drew and Steve Bowen.        Discovery and its six-member crew delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2011-2063

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA Kennedy Space Center workers watch as spac...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - NASA Kennedy Space Center workers watch as space shuttle Discovery rolls to a stop on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility in Florida. Landing was at 11:57 a.m. EST, completing the 1... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, invited guests, managers and employees gather near the Air Traffic Control Tower at the Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF) to watch shuttle Discovery return from space for the last time. Discovery touched down on Runway 15 at 11:57 a.m. EST, completing the 13-day STS-133 mission to the International Space Station.                Discovery and its six-member crew delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-2071

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, invited guests, managers and employees gather near the Air Traffic Control Tower at the Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF) to watch shuttle Discove... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA Administrator Charlie Bolden talks to about 50 eighth-grade students from McNair Magnet Middle School in Rockledge, Fla., and other invited guests who are at Kennedy Space Center in Florida to watch shuttle Discovery return from space for the last time. Discovery touched down on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at 11:57 a.m. EST, completing the 13-day STS-133 mission to the International Space Station.          Discovery and its six-member crew delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-2077

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA Administrator Charlie Bolden talks to abo...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- NASA Administrator Charlie Bolden talks to about 50 eighth-grade students from McNair Magnet Middle School in Rockledge, Fla., and other invited guests who are at Kennedy Space Center in... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery's tail fin clears the hangar door of Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery touched down on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at 11:57 a.m., bringing an end to its 39th and final spaceflight mission, STS-133. Discovery and its six-member STS-133 crew delivered 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.    Inside the processing facility, Discovery will be prepared for future public display.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2187

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery's tail fin clears the h...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery's tail fin clears the hangar door of Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery touched down on the Shuttle Landing Facilit... More

STS133-S-119 (9 March 2011) --- Space shuttle Discovery nears touchdown on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA?s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Landing was at 11:57 a.m. (EST) on March 9, 2011, completing a more than 12-day STS-133 mission to the International Space Station. Onboard are NASA astronauts Steve Lindsey, commander; Eric Boe, pilot; Steve Bowen, Alvin Drew, Michael Barratt and Nicole Stott, all mission specialists. Discovery and its six-member crew delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration sts133-s-119

STS133-S-119 (9 March 2011) --- Space shuttle Discovery nears touchdow...

STS133-S-119 (9 March 2011) --- Space shuttle Discovery nears touchdown on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA?s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Landing was at 11:57 a.m. (EST) on March 9, 2011, ... More

ISS028-E-030086 (22 Aug. 2011) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Satoshi Furukawa and NASA astronaut Mike Fossum (out of frame), both Expedition 28 flight engineers, make preparations to power-up Robonaut 2 ? the first dexterous humanoid robot in space ? in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. iss028e030086

ISS028-E-030086 (22 Aug. 2011) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency ...

ISS028-E-030086 (22 Aug. 2011) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Satoshi Furukawa and NASA astronaut Mike Fossum (out of frame), both Expedition 28 flight engineers, make preparations to power-up... More

iss050e059613 (03/24/2017) --- Expedition 50 Commander Shane Kimbrough of NASA is seen floating into the Quest airlock at the conclusion of a spacewalk. Kimbrough and Flight Engineer Thomas Pesquet of ESA (European Space Agency) conducted a six hour and 34 minute spacewalk on March 24, 2017. The two astronauts successfully disconnected cables and electrical connections on the Pressurized Mating Adapter-3 to prepare for its robotic move, lubricated the latching end effector on the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator “extension” for the Canadarm2 robotic arm, inspected a radiator valve and replaced cameras on the Japanese segment of the outpost. iss050e059613

iss050e059613 (03/24/2017) --- Expedition 50 Commander Shane Kimbrough...

iss050e059613 (03/24/2017) --- Expedition 50 Commander Shane Kimbrough of NASA is seen floating into the Quest airlock at the conclusion of a spacewalk. Kimbrough and Flight Engineer Thomas Pesquet of ESA (Euro... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room-4 in the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, launch controllers took their posts at about 2:30 p.m. EST for space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 mission to the International Space Station. The countdown clock began ticking backward from the T-43 hour mark at 3 p.m.       Scheduled to lift off Feb. 24 at 4:50 p.m. EST, Discovery and its six-member 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 orbiting outpost. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Frank Michaux KSC-2011-1543

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room-4 in the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, launch controllers took their posts at about 2:30 p.m. EST for space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery noses its way toward the open hangar door of Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery touched down on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at 11:57 a.m., bringing an end to its 39th and final spaceflight mission, STS-133. Discovery and its six-member STS-133 crew delivered 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.    Inside the processing facility, Discovery will be prepared for future public display.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2184

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery noses its way toward th...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery noses its way toward the open hangar door of Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery touched down on the Shuttle Landing... 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

Virtual Environment Telepresence workstation, simulated Mars Exploration shows Lewis Hitchner with virtual helmet and  EXOS Dexterous interface (virtual hand) ARC-1992-AC92-0326-20

Virtual Environment Telepresence workstation, simulated Mars Explorati...

Virtual Environment Telepresence workstation, simulated Mars Exploration shows Lewis Hitchner with virtual helmet and EXOS Dexterous interface (virtual hand)

STS062-27-017 - STS-062 - MS Thuot and MS Ivins at Dexterous End Effector (DEE) controls

STS062-27-017 - STS-062 - MS Thuot and MS Ivins at Dexterous End Effec...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Photographic documentation of Mission Specialists Pierre Thuot and Marsha Ivins working at the Dexterous End Effector (DEE) controls on the Space Shuttl... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, technicians monitor the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as Dextre, as a crane moves it into position on a pallet.  Processing of the payload is under way for its mission to the International Space Station. Dextre will work with the mobile base and Canadarm2 on the station to perform critical construction and maintenance tasks. Dextre is part of the payload scheduled on mission STS-123, targeted to launch Feb. 14, 2008.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd2567

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, technicians monitor the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as Dextre, as a crane moves it into po... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, technicians help guide the starboard arm of the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as Dextre, into place for installation on the base.   Dextre is a sophisticated dual-armed robot, which is part of Canada's contribution to the International Space Station (ISS). Along with Canadarm2, whose technical name is the Space Station Remote Manipulator System, and a moveable work platform called the Mobile Base System, these three elements form a robotic system called the Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The three components have been designed to work together or independently. Dextre is part of the payload scheduled on mission STS-123, targeted to launch Feb. 14.  Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd2870

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, technicians help guide the starboard arm of the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as Dextre, int... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, technicians help guide the starboard arm of the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as Dextre, into place for installation on the base.   Dextre is a sophisticated dual-armed robot, which is part of Canada's contribution to the International Space Station (ISS). Along with Canadarm2, whose technical name is the Space Station Remote Manipulator System, and a moveable work platform called the Mobile Base System, these three elements form a robotic system called the Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The three components have been designed to work together or independently. Dextre is part of the payload scheduled on mission STS-123, targeted to launch Feb. 14.  Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd2871

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, technicians help guide the starboard arm of the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as Dextre, int... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, is prepared for its lift and installation in a launch box called SLEEPR, or Structural Launch Enclosure to Effectively Protect Robonaut.     R2 will fly to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Discovery on the STS-133 mission. Although it will initially only participate in operational tests, upgrades could eventually allow the robot to realize its true purpose -- helping spacewalking astronauts with tasks outside the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin KSC-2010-4390

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 dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, is prepared for its lift and installation ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, begins is move to a horizontal position in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Packed inside a launch box called SLEEPR, or Structural Launch Enclosure to Effectively Protect Robonaut, R2 will be placed in the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, in the same launch orientation as space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 crew members -- facing toward the nose of the shuttle with the back taking all the weight.     Although R2 will initially only participate in operational tests, upgrades could eventually allow the robot to realize its true purpose -- helping spacewalking astronauts with tasks outside the International Space Station. STS-133 is targeted to launch Nov. 1.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4416

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robon...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, begins is move to a horizontal position in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Pa... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, is ready to be moved to a horizontal position in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Packed inside a launch box called SLEEPR, or Structural Launch Enclosure to Effectively Protect Robonaut, R2 will be placed in the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, in the same launch orientation as space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 crew members -- facing toward the nose of the shuttle with the back taking all the weight.     Although R2 will initially only participate in operational tests, upgrades could eventually allow the robot to realize its true purpose -- helping spacewalking astronauts with tasks outside the International Space Station. STS-133 is targeted to launch Nov. 1.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4414

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robon...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, is ready to be moved to a horizontal position in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Flori... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Technicians in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida prepare to load the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, into the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM. Packed inside a launch box called SLEEPR, or Structural Launch Enclosure to Effectively Protect Robonaut, R2 will be placed in the in the same launch orientation as space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 crew members -- facing toward the nose of the shuttle with the back taking all the weight.              Although R2 will initially only participate in operational tests, upgrades could eventually allow the robot to realize its true purpose -- helping spacewalking astronauts with tasks outside the International Space Station. STS-133 is targeted to launch Nov. 1.  Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin KSC-2010-4444

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Technicians in the Space Station Processing Fa...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Technicians in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida prepare to load the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, into the Perman... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers monitor the progress of the payload canister as an overhead crane rotates it into a vertical position.        The canister will then be delivered to Launch Pad 39A, lifted into the rotating service structure where the module will be moved into the clean room before it is installed into space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the PMM, 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/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4997

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Ke...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers monitor the progress of the payload canister as an overhead crane rotates it into a vertical position... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a workers watches the progress of an overhead crane as it lowers the payload canister onto a transport vehicle.        The canister will then be delivered to Launch Pad 39A, lifted into the rotating service structure where the module will be moved into the clean room before it is installed into space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the PMM, 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/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5003

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Ke...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a workers watches the progress of an overhead crane as it lowers the payload canister onto a transport vehicl... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers connect an overhead crane to the payload canister for its rotation into a vertical position.        The canister will then be delivered to Launch Pad 39A, lifted into the rotating service structure where the module will be moved into the clean room before it is installed into space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the PMM, 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/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4996

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Ke...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers connect an overhead crane to the payload canister for its rotation into a vertical position. T... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A NASA helicopter monitors the arrival of the STS-133 crew as they arrive in T-38 jets at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for a practice launch dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) in preparation for their upcoming mission.  TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5073

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A NASA helicopter monitors the arrival of the ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A NASA helicopter monitors the arrival of the STS-133 crew as they arrive in T-38 jets at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for a practice launch dre... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe, dressed in their orange flight suits, head toward Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STAs are modified Gulfstream II business jets that mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5091

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe, dressed in their orange flight suits, head toward Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Ken... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-133 crew poses for a group portrait following their arrival for a practice launch dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). From left are Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, Michael Barratt, Tim Kopra, Alvin Drew; Pilot Eric Boe and Commander Steve Lindsey.         TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5075

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 crew poses for a group portrait following their arrival for a practice launch dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonst... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-133 crew shares a light moment with Battalion Chief David Seymour, left, during training on the M-113 armored personnel carrier. An M-113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed, and driving the vehicle is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5103

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 crew shares a light moment with Battalion Chief David Seymour, left, during training on the M-113 armored personnel carrier. An M-1... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) performs touch-and-go landings as the sun sets over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe are flying two Gulfstream II business jets that are modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.        Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-2010-5140

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- While performing touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe enjoyed a perfect sunset over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Lindsey and Boe flew two Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA), which are Gulfstream II business jets modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.        Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2010-5131

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- While performing touch-and-go landings over th...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- While performing touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe enjoyed a perfect sunset over NASA's Kennedy Space Cen... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the STS-133 crew receive instruction by the catch nets for the slidewire baskets at the base of the pad as part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) emergency exit training. Pictured are Mission Specialist Tim Kopra (left); Pilot Eric Boe; Commander Steve Lindsey; Mission Specialists Alvin Drew, Nicole Stott and Michael Barratt.              TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5165

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the White Room of Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Tim Kopra prepares to board space shuttle Discovery during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). Part of TCDT includes practicing the final hours of a real launch day when astronauts put on their launch-and-entry suits, ride to the pad in the Astrovan and strap into the shuttle.    Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2010-5202

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the White Room of Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Tim Kopra prepares to board space shuttle Discovery during the Terminal Countdow... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey is strapped into his seat on space shuttle Discovery. Next, the crew members will practice escaping the shuttle, in preparation for an unlikely emergency at the pad on launch day. The simulated launch countdown and emergency exit training are part of a week-long Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT).        Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5209

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown on Launch ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey is strapped into his seat on space shuttle Discovery. Nex... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Michael Barratt is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the fit of their orange launch-and-entry suits and helmets before launch day is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.        Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5182

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Michael Barratt is ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Michael Barratt is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the fit of their orange launch-and-entry suits and helmets before launch day is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5179

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew is suite...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the fit... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the fit of their orange launch-and-entry suits and helmets before launch day is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5190

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe is suited up in the Ope...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the fit of their orang... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe is strapped into his seat on space shuttle Discovery. Next, the crew members will practice escaping the shuttle, in preparation for an unlikely emergency at the pad on launch day. The simulated launch countdown and emergency exit training are part of a week-long Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT).        Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5208

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown on Launch ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Pilot Eric Boe is strapped into his seat on space shuttle Discovery. Next, the cr... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated pad emergency on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialists Michael Barratt, front left, and Nicole Stott hop in a slidewire basket that would take them to a safe bunker below the pad in an unlikely emergency situation. The emergency training while aboard space shuttle Discovery is part of a week-long Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT).    Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5220

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated pad emergency on Launch Pad...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated pad emergency on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialists Michael Barratt, front left, and Nicole Stott hop in a slidewire... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach talks to media about proceeding with space shuttle Discovery's launch countdown. Lift off had been postponed to evaluate a controller that showed an irregular power drop in Discovery's No. 3 engine.    Now scheduled to launch Nov. 4 at 3:29 p.m. EDT, 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 orbiting laboratory. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5452

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach talks to media about proceeding with space shuttle Discovery's launch countdown. Lift off had been postpo... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey, foreground aircraft, and Pilot Eric Boe are ready to take off and perform touch-and-go landings aboard two Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STAs are Gulfstream II business jets that are modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of standard training before space shuttle Discovery's launch to the International Space Station.        Scheduled to lift off Feb. 24 at 4:50 p.m. EST, Discovery and its six-member 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 orbiting outpost. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-1528

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey, foreground ai...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey, foreground aircraft, and Pilot Eric Boe are ready to take off and perform touch-and-go landings aboard two Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) on the Shuttle... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is illuminated by bright xenon lights on Launch Pad 39A after the rotating service structure was moved away. The structure provides weather protection and access to the shuttle while it awaits lift off on the pad. RSS "rollback," as it's called, began at 8:02 p.m. EST on Feb. 23 and wrapped up at 8:37 p.m.           Scheduled to lift off Feb. 24 at 4:50 p.m. EST, Discovery and its six-member 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. 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 the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin KSC-2011-1587

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 Discovery is illuminated by bright xenon lights on Launch Pad 39A after the rotating service structure was moved away. The struct... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is illuminated by bright xenon lights on Launch Pad 39A after the rotating service structure was moved away. The structure provides weather protection and access to the shuttle while it awaits lift off on the pad. RSS "rollback," as it's called, began at 8:02 p.m. EST on Feb. 23 and wrapped up at 8:37 p.m.           Scheduled to lift off Feb. 24 at 4:50 p.m. EST, Discovery and its six-member 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. 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 the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin KSC-2011-1588

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 Discovery is illuminated by bright xenon lights on Launch Pad 39A after the rotating service structure was moved away. The struct... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- As if soaring through the heavens, space shuttle Discovery launches through rolling clouds of smoke and steam, embarking on its final scheduled mission, STS-133, to the International Space Station. Liftoff from launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida occurred at 4:53 p.m. EST on Feb. 24.          Discovery and its six-member crew are on a mission to 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. Discovery is making its 39th mission and is scheduled to be retired following STS-133. This is the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission, the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station and Discovery's final mission. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kenny Allen KSC-2011-1730

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- As if soaring through the heavens, space shutt...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- As if soaring through the heavens, space shuttle Discovery launches through rolling clouds of smoke and steam, embarking on its final scheduled mission, STS-133, to the International Spa... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Folks from across the country camped out in communities surrounding NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to witness space shuttle Discovery make history by lifting off on its final scheduled mission from Launch Pad 39A. Seen here, is State Road 406, also known as the A. Max Brewer Causeway, in Titusville, Fla.    Liftoff is set for 4:50 p.m. EST on Feb. 24. Discovery and its six-member 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. 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 the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2011-1630

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Folks from across the country camped out in co...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Folks from across the country camped out in communities surrounding NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to witness space shuttle Discovery make history by lifting off on its final sch... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach and his team monitor the countdown to launch of space shuttle Discovery on its STS-133 mission to the International Space Station.          Discovery and its six-member crew are on a mission to deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. Discovery is making its 39th mission and is scheduled to be retired following STS-133. This is the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-1666

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach and his team monitor the countdown to launch of space shutt... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- House Of Representatives Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, from California's 8th District, left, and United Space Alliance worker Brian Elleman pose for a photo at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Pelosi is at the space center to witness space shuttle Discovery make history as it lifts off on its final scheduled mission from Launch Pad 39A. While at the center, Pelosi attended a presentation in the Operations Support Building II and toured Orbiter Processing Facilities 1 and 2 where shuttles Atlantis and Endeavour are being prepared for their final missions respectively.    Discovery and its six-member 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. Discovery will make its 39th mission and 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 the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/.  Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2011-1685

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- House Of Representatives Democratic Leader Nan...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- House Of Representatives Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, from California's 8th District, left, and United Space Alliance worker Brian Elleman pose for a photo at NASA's Kennedy Space Cen... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This image of State Road 406, also known as the A. Max Brewer Causeway and surrounding roadways in Titusville, Florida, was taken from a traffic survey helicopter after the successful launch of space shuttle Discovery at 4:53 p.m. EST on its final flight to the International Space Station.        Discovery's six-member 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 orbiting outpost. Discovery is flying on its 39th and final mission and is scheduled to be retired following STS-133. This is the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2011-1708

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This image of State Road 406, also known as th...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- This image of State Road 406, also known as the A. Max Brewer Causeway and surrounding roadways in Titusville, Florida, was taken from a traffic survey helicopter after the successful la... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Stennis Center Director Patrick Scheuermann, left, Kennedy's Center Director Bob Cabana, Johnson Space Center Director Mike Coats and Marshall Center Director Robert Lightfoot (extreme right), monitor the countdown to launch of space shuttle Discovery on its STS-133 mission to the International Space Station.           Discovery and its six-member crew are on a mission to deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. Discovery is making its 39th mission and is scheduled to be retired following STS-133. This is the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-1668

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Stennis Center Director Patrick Scheuermann, left, Kennedy's Center Director Bob Cabana, Johnson ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Leaving behind clouds of smoke and steam, space shuttle Discovery lifts off from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida beginning its final flight, the STS-133 mission, to the International Space Station. Launch was at 4:53 p.m. EST.            Discovery and its six-member 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 orbiting outpost. Discovery is flying on its 39th mission and is scheduled to be retired following STS-133. This is the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph and Kevin O'Connell KSC-2011-1771

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Leaving behind clouds of smoke and steam, spac...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Leaving behind clouds of smoke and steam, space shuttle Discovery lifts off from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida beginning its final flight, the STS-133 mission,... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The nose gear on space shuttle Discovery descends to support touch down on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery's final return from space completed the 13-day, 5.3-million-mile STS-133 mission. Main gear touchdown was at 11:57:17 a.m., followed by nose gear touchdown at 11:57:28, and wheelstop at 11:58:14 a.m. On board are Commander Steve Lindsey, Pilot Eric Boe, and Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, Michael Barratt, Alvin Drew and Steve Bowen.    Discovery and its six-member crew delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph and Kevin O'Connell KSC-2011-2101

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The nose gear on space shuttle Discovery descen...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The nose gear on space shuttle Discovery descends to support touch down on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery's final return fr... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The news media ask space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 crew members questions during a post-landing news conference in the Press Site TV Auditorium at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. From left, are NASA Public Affairs Officer George Diller, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey, Pilot Eric Boe, and Mission Specialists Alvin Drew, Steve Bowen, Michael Barratt and Nicole Stott. Discovery and crew landed on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at 11:57 a.m., completing a 13-day, 5.3-million-mile mission to the International Space Station.    STS-133 delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2151

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The news media ask space shuttle Discovery's S...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The news media ask space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 crew members questions during a post-landing news conference in the Press Site TV Auditorium at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florid... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery touches down on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Landing was at 11:57 a.m. EST, completing the 13-day STS-133 mission to the International Space Station.         Main gear touchdown was at 11:57:17 a.m., followed by nose gear touchdown at 11:57:28, and wheelstop at 11:58:14 a.m. On board are Commander Steve Lindsey, Pilot Eric Boe, and Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, Michael Barratt, Alvin Drew and Steve Bowen. Discovery and its six-member crew delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Chuck Tintera KSC-2011-2070

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery touches down on Runway...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery touches down on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Landing was at 11:57 a.m. EST, completing the 13-day STS-133 ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery appears to be a mirage as it coasts down Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery's final return from space completed the 13-day, 5.3-million-mile STS-133 mission. Main gear touchdown was at 11:57:17 a.m., followed by nose gear touchdown at 11:57:28, and wheelstop at 11:58:14 a.m. On board are Commander Steve Lindsey, Pilot Eric Boe, and Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, Michael Barratt, Alvin Drew and Steve Bowen.    Discovery and its six-member crew delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray and Tom Farrar KSC-2011-2106

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery appears to be a mirage ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery appears to be a mirage as it coasts down Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery's final return from space c... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach and STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott pose for a photo on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Stott and her crewmates returned from a 13-day, 5.3-million-mile mission to the International Space Station at 11:57 a.m.    STS-133 delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2130

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach and STS-...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach and STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott pose for a photo on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Employees gather underneath space shuttle Discovery on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In the foreground, NASA Administrator Charlie Bolden congratulates STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey on a successful mission. Lindsey and his crew returned from a 13-day, 5.3-million-mile mission to the International Space Station at 11:57 a.m. EST.    STS-133 delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2133

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Employees gather underneath space shuttle Disc...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Employees gather underneath space shuttle Discovery on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In the foreground, NASA Administrator Charlie B... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Michael Barratt admires space shuttle Discovery on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Barratt and his crewmates returned from a 13-day, 5.3-million-mile mission to the International Space Station at 11:57 a.m. EST.    STS-133 delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2131

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Michael Barratt adm...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Michael Barratt admires space shuttle Discovery on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Barratt and his crewmate... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Employees accompany space shuttle Discovery as it is pulled by a "towback" vehicle from the Shuttle Landing Facility to Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery touched down on Runway 15 at 11:57 a.m., bringing an end to its 39th and final spaceflight mission, STS-133. Discovery and its six-member STS-133 crew delivered 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.    Inside the processing facility, Discovery will be prepared for future public display.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2172

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Employees accompany space shuttle Discovery as ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Employees accompany space shuttle Discovery as it is pulled by a "towback" vehicle from the Shuttle Landing Facility to Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Flo... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The nozzles of two orbital maneuvering system pods and three space shuttle main engines protrude from the aft end of space shuttle Discovery as it is pulled by a "towback" vehicle toward Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery touched down on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at 11:57 a.m., bringing an end to its 39th and final spaceflight mission, STS-133. Discovery and its six-member STS-133 crew delivered 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.    Inside the processing facility, Discovery will be prepared for future public display.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2178

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The nozzles of two orbital maneuvering system p...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The nozzles of two orbital maneuvering system pods and three space shuttle main engines protrude from the aft end of space shuttle Discovery as it is pulled by a "towback" vehicle toward ... More

STS133-S-155 (9 March 2011) --- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, astronaut Steve Lindsey, STS-133 commander, talks to media representatives about space shuttle Discovery's final spaceflight mission. Behind Lindsey, from left, are astronauts Nicole Stott and Michael Barratt, both mission specialists; Eric Boe, pilot; Alvin Drew and Steve Bowen, both mission specialists; and NASA Administrator Charlie Bolden. The STS-133 crew returned to Earth at 11:57 a.m. (EST) on March 9, 2011, on Runway 15, completing a 13-day, 5.3-million-mile mission to the International Space Station. STS-133 delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration sts133-s-155

STS133-S-155 (9 March 2011) --- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NAS...

STS133-S-155 (9 March 2011) --- On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, astronaut Steve Lindsey, STS-133 commander, talks to media representatives about space shuttle Discover... More

STS133-S-131 (9 March 2011) --- Space shuttle Discovery?s drag chute is deployed as the spacecraft rolls toward wheels stop on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA?s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Landing was at 11:57 a.m. (EST) on March 9, 2011, completing a more than 12-day STS-133 mission to the International Space Station. Onboard are NASA astronauts Steve Lindsey, commander; Eric Boe, pilot; Steve Bowen, Alvin Drew, Michael Barratt and Nicole Stott, all mission specialists. Discovery and its six-member crew delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration sts133-s-131

STS133-S-131 (9 March 2011) --- Space shuttle Discovery?s drag chute i...

STS133-S-131 (9 March 2011) --- Space shuttle Discovery?s drag chute is deployed as the spacecraft rolls toward wheels stop on Runway 15 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA?s Kennedy Space Center in Florida... More

STS133-S-144 (9 March 2011) --- Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach and astronaut Nicole Stott, STS-133 mission specialist, pose for a photo on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Stott and her crewmates returned from a 13-day, 5.3-million-mile mission to the International Space Station at 11:57 a.m. (EST) on March 9, 2011. STS-133 delivered the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the orbiting outpost. STS-133 was Discovery's 39th and final mission. This was the 133rd Space Shuttle Program mission and the 35th shuttle voyage to the space station. Photo credit: NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration sts133-s-144

STS133-S-144 (9 March 2011) --- Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach ...

STS133-S-144 (9 March 2011) --- Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach and astronaut Nicole Stott, STS-133 mission specialist, pose for a photo on the Shuttle Landing Facility's Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space... More

ISS028-E-030090 (22 Aug. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Mike Fossum (bottom) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Satoshi Furukawa, both Expedition 28 flight engineers, make preparations to power-up Robonaut 2 ? the first dexterous humanoid robot in space ? in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. iss028e030090

ISS028-E-030090 (22 Aug. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Mike Fossum (bottom)...

ISS028-E-030090 (22 Aug. 2011) --- NASA astronaut Mike Fossum (bottom) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Satoshi Furukawa, both Expedition 28 flight engineers, make preparations to power-up Robon... More

Virtual Environment Telepresence workstation, simulated Mars Exploration shows Lewis Hitchner with virtual helmet and  EXOS Dexterous interface (virtual hand) ARC-1992-AC94-0326-11

Virtual Environment Telepresence workstation, simulated Mars Explorati...

Virtual Environment Telepresence workstation, simulated Mars Exploration shows Lewis Hitchner with virtual helmet and EXOS Dexterous interface (virtual hand)

STS062-26-011 - STS-062 - MS Ivins and MS Thuot working at Dexterous End Effector (DEE) controls

STS062-26-011 - STS-062 - MS Ivins and MS Thuot working at Dexterous E...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Photographic documentation of STS-62 Mission Specialists Pierre Thuot and Marsha Ivins working at Dexterous End Effector (DEE) controls on the Space Shu... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as Dextre, moves across the facility via an overhead crane to the payload canister for transfer to Launch Pad 39A.   Dextre is a sophisticated dual-armed robot, which is part of Canada's contribution to the International Space Station. Along with Canadarm2, which is called the Space Station Remote Manipulator System, and a moveable work platform called the Mobile Base System, these three elements form a robotic system called the Mobile Servicing System. The three components have been designed to work together or independently. Dextre is part of the payload on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission, targeted for launch March 11.   Photo courtesy of The Boeing Company KSC-08pd0604

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, the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, known as Dextre, moves across the facility via an overhead crane... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, is moved to a horizontal position in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Packed inside a launch box called SLEEPR, or Structural Launch Enclosure to Effectively Protect Robonaut, R2 will be placed in the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, in the same launch orientation as space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 crew members -- facing toward the nose of the shuttle with the back taking all the weight.     Although R2 will initially only participate in operational tests, upgrades could eventually allow the robot to realize its true purpose -- helping spacewalking astronauts with tasks outside the International Space Station. STS-133 is targeted to launch Nov. 1.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4418

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robon...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, Robonaut 2, or R2, is moved to a horizontal position in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Packed i... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, is being processed for flight in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In this view is the opposite side of the PMM which is still open for access.        Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew are targeted to launch Nov. 1 and will deliver the PMM, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. For more information visit: www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4553

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, is ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, is being processed for flight in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In this view is the opposite ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians guide the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, as an overhead crane lowers it into the payload canister.        The canister will then be transported to Launch Pad 39A and installed into space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the PMM, 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/Cory Huston KSC-2010-4981

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, technicians guide the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, as an overhead crane lowers it into the p... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lifts the payload canister into a vertical position.        The canister will then be delivered to Launch Pad 39A, lifted into the rotating service structure where the module will be moved into the clean room before it is installed into space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the PMM, 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/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4999

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Ke...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lifts the payload canister into a vertical position. The canister will then be deliv... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload canister rests on a transport vehicle after being rotated into a vertical position.        The canister will then be delivered to Launch Pad 39A, lifted into the rotating service structure where the module will be moved into the clean room before it is installed into space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the PMM, 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/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5004

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Ke...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload canister rests on a transport vehicle after being rotated into a vertical position. The ca... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians prepare to move the STS-133 payload from the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39A to space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. The move paves the way for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) this week, which will give the astronauts and teams at Kennedy and NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston a chance to practice launch day tasks.     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/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2010-5042

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 to move the STS-133 payload from the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39A to space shuttle Discovery's payload bay.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe put on their orange flight suits in the Shuttle Landing Facility's Landing Aids Control Building, which is on the south end of the facility's runway. They are preparing to practice landings in Shuttle Training Aircraft, modified Gulfstream II business jets that mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-5088

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe put on their orange flight suits in the Shuttle Landing Facility's Landing Aids Control Buil... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Michael Barratt prepares to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him are Mission Specialist Tim Kopra and Pilot Eric Boe. An M-113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed, and training on the vehicle is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5106

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Michael Barratt prepares to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him are Mission Specialist T... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- While performing touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe enjoyed a perfect sunset over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Lindsey and Boe flew two Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA), which are Gulfstream II business jets modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.        Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2010-5127

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- While performing touch-and-go landings over th...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- While performing touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe enjoyed a perfect sunset over NASA's Kennedy Space Cen... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) performs touch-and-go landings over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe are flying two Gulfstream II business jets that are modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.        Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2010-5126

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Tim Kopra prepares to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him is Commander Steve Lindsey. An M-113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed, and training on the vehicle is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5115

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Tim Kopra prepares to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him is Commander Steve Lindsey. An... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew prepares to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him is Commander Steve Lindsey. An M-113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed, and training on the vehicle is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5116

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew prepares to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him is Commander Steve Lindsey. A... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-133 crew members walk through the Vehicle Assembly Building. From left are Mission Specialists Michael Barratt and Nicole Stott, Commander Steve Lindsey, Mission Specialists Alvin Drew and Tim Kopra, and Pilot Eric Boe. The astronauts are at Kennedy for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5169

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 crew members walk through the Vehicle Assembly Building. From left are Mission Specialists Michael Barratt and Nicole Stott, Comman... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 crew members pose for a photo in Launch Pad 39A's White Room during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). From left are Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, Alvin Drew, Pilot Eric Boe, Mission Specialists Tim Kopra and Michael Barratt, and Commander Steve Lindsey.      TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5159

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 crew members pose for a photo in Launch Pad 39A's White Room during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). From left are Mis... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the fit of their orange launch-and-entry suits and helmets before launch day is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.        Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5181

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott is sui...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Mission Specialist Nicole Stott is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the f... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the fit of their orange launch-and-entry suits and helmets before launch day is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad.    Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5189

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey is suited up i...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey is suited up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during a simulated launch countdown. Checking the fit of th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey speaks to media on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway after arriving aboard a T-38 training jet. In the days leading up to their launch to the International Space Station, Lindsey and his crew members will check the fit of their launch-and-entry suits, review launch-day procedures, receive weather briefings and remain medically quarantined to prevent sickness.    Scheduled to lift off Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m., Discovery and 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 orbiting outpost. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5351

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 Discovery's STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey speaks to media on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway after arriving aboard a T-38 t... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, participants of the STS-133 Tweetup snap photos and watch intently as a dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, known as Robonaut, shows off its talents. Robonaut 2 (R2) will be delivered to the International Space Station on space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 mission. Although R2 will initially only participate in operational tests, upgrades could eventually allow the robot to realize its true purpose -- helping spacewalking astronauts with tasks outside the orbiting laboratory.      NASA is hosting about 150 of its Twitter followers from around the world and several dozen states and providing them with a behind-the-scenes perspective to share with their own followers on the social networking service. The "Tweeps," as NASA calls them, will have a chance to tour Kennedy, meet with shuttle technicians, managers, engineers and astronauts, and witness Discovery's launch. Discovery and its STS-133 crew are scheduled to lift off Nov. 3 at 3:52 p.m. EDT. For more information on the upcoming mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Frank Michaux KSC-2010-5388

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, participants of the STS-133 Tweetup snap photos and watch intently as a dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, known as Robonaut, shows off its t... More

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