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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Storm clouds fill the sky from Launch Pad 39B, at right, west beyond the Vehicle Assembly Building. Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits on the pad after a scrub was called Aug. 27 due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Towering above the shuttle is the 80-foot lightning mast. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2067

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Storm clouds fill the sky from Launch Pa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Storm clouds fill the sky from Launch Pad 39B, at right, west beyond the Vehicle Assembly Building. Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits on the pad after a scrub was called Aug. 27 d... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Hurtling toward space, Space Shuttle Atlantis clears the lightning mast atop the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39B. Clouds of smoke and steam nearly obscure the pad. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. KSC-06pp2152

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Hurtling toward space, Space Shuttle Atl...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Hurtling toward space, Space Shuttle Atlantis clears the lightning mast atop the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39B. Clouds of smoke and steam nearly obscure the pad. Atla... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After a week's delay of launching due to weather and technical issues, the crew of mission STS-115 have had the traditional breakfast before their third attempt to launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis. Seated left to right are Mission Specialists Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Joseph Tanner, Commander Brent Jett, Pilot Christopher Ferguson and Mission Specialists Steven MacLean and Daniel Burbank. MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. Following the breakfast, the crew will don their launch suits before heading to Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2090

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After a week's delay of launching due t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After a week's delay of launching due to weather and technical issues, the crew of mission STS-115 have had the traditional breakfast before their third attempt to launch on Space... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view of the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-115 as it soars over the Space Coast, taken from NASA's WB-57 aircraft. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station, delivering the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment for installation. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: Courtesy of Robert Rivers KSC-06pd2465

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view of the launch of Space Shuttle At...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view of the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-115 as it soars over the Space Coast, taken from NASA's WB-57 aircraft. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Nearly obscured by its own contrail, Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles toward space for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2121

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Nearly obscured by its own contrail, Spa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Nearly obscured by its own contrail, Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles toward space for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 1... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 mission crew pose for a photo on the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility after their arrival. From left are astronaut Clayton Anderson, Mission Specialists James Reilly, John "Danny" Olivas, Steven Swanson and Patrick Forrester, Pilot Lee Archambault and Commander Frederick Sturckow. Anderson will be on the mission to join the Expedition 15 crew on the International Space Station. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1354

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 mission crew pose for a pho...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 mission crew pose for a photo on the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility after their arrival. From left are astronaut Clayton Anderson, Mission Specialists James Reilly, Joh... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The shuttle training aircraft, or STA, with STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow and Pilot Lee Archambault in the cockpit begins to taxi to the runway at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. Sturckow and Archambault will be making practice landings in the STA, which is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1373

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The shuttle training aircraft, or STA, with STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow and Pilot Lee Archambault in the cockpit begins to taxi to the runway at KSC's Shuttle Landing Fac... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The late afternoon sun highlights Space Shuttle Atlantis after rollback of the rotating service structure. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servicing of payloads at the pad and then is rolled away before liftoff. Seen above the golden external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Below it, extending from the fixed service structure, is the orbiter access arm with the White Room at the end. The White Room provides entry into the orbiter. Atlantis is scheduled to launch Sept. 6 at 12:29 p.m. EDT on mission STS-115. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned KSC landing at about 8:03 a.m. EDT on Sept. 17. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2044

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The late afternoon sun highlights Spa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The late afternoon sun highlights Space Shuttle Atlantis after rollback of the rotating service structure. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and se... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Huge clouds roll over Launch Pad 39B where Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits after the scrub of its launch on mission STS-115. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Towering above the shuttle is the 80-foot lightning mast. At right is the 300,000-gallon water tank that releases its contents onto the mobile launcher platform during liftoff to aid sound suppression. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2054

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Huge clouds roll over Launch Pad 39B wh...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Huge clouds roll over Launch Pad 39B where Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits after the scrub of its launch on mission STS-115. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:2... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles toward space, propelled by twin columns of fire from the solid rocket boosters. Clouds of smoke and steam spread side to side across Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC KSC-06pp2155

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles toward s...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles toward space, propelled by twin columns of fire from the solid rocket boosters. Clouds of smoke and steam spread side to side across Launch Pad 39B... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Commander Brent Jett finishes suiting up for another attempt at liftoff. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2101

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Commander Brent Jett finishes suiting up for another attempt at liftoff. The launch attempt on ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With applause and cheers from the onlookers, Space Shuttle Atlantis roars off the launch pad for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. In the foreground is the countdown clock, marking launch and mission-elapsed time, on the grounds of the NASA News Center. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Debbie Odom KSC-06pd2110

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With applause and cheers from the onlooke...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With applause and cheers from the onlookers, Space Shuttle Atlantis roars off the launch pad for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. In the foregr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Mission Specialist James Reilly prepares to exit the plane. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1350

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the K...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Mission Specialist James Re... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After their arrival at KSC, STS-117 crew members take part in a payload bay walkdown on Launch Pad 39A to look at the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis. The payload includes the S3/S4 integrated truss structure for the International Space Station. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1364

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After their arrival at KSC, STS-117 cre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After their arrival at KSC, STS-117 crew members take part in a payload bay walkdown on Launch Pad 39A to look at the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis. The payload includes the S3/... More

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

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

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner waits to complete suiting up before heading to the launch pad. Tanner is making his fourth shuttle flight on this mission to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. On its second attempt for launch, Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT today from Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2085

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner waits to complete suiting up before heading to the launch pad. Tanne... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean checks his glove during suitup before heading to the launch pad. MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency. MacLean is making his second shuttle flight on this mission to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. On its second attempt for launch, Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT today from Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2080

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean checks his glove during suitup before heading to the launch pad. Mac... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Smoke and steam billow across Launch Pad 39B as Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles into the sky for its rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several earlier launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo courtesy of Nikon/Scott Andrews KSC-06pd2130

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Smoke and steam billow across Launch Pa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Smoke and steam billow across Launch Pad 39B as Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles into the sky for its rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff wa... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper is donning her launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad for another attempt at liftoff. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2094

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper is donning her launch and re-entry suit before headin... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis roars into the sky above the primitive sand dunes in the foreground. Heading for its rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115, liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph & Robert Murray KSC-06pd2124

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis roars into the s...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis roars into the sky above the primitive sand dunes in the foreground. Heading for its rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115, ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flaming rockets propel Space Shuttle Atlantis away from the smoke and steam below and into the sky for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2119

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flaming rockets propel Space Shuttle Atla...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flaming rockets propel Space Shuttle Atlantis away from the smoke and steam below and into the sky for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After their arrival at KSC, STS-117 crew members take part in a payload bay walkdown on Launch Pad 39A to look at the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis. The payload includes the S3/S4 integrated truss structure for the International Space Station. The payload includes the S3/S4 integrated truss structure for the International Space Station. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1360

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After their arrival at KSC, STS-117 crew...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After their arrival at KSC, STS-117 crew members take part in a payload bay walkdown on Launch Pad 39A to look at the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis. The payload includes the S3/S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Pilot Lee Archambault climbs into the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. He will be making practice landings in the STA, which is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1370

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Pilot Lee Archambault climbs in...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Pilot Lee Archambault climbs into the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. He will be making practice landings in the STA, which is a Gru... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During suitup in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank tests the communication system in his helmet. Burbank is making his second shuttle flight on this mission to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. On its second attempt for launch, Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT today from Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2086

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During suitup in the Operations and Che...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During suitup in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank tests the communication system in his helmet. Burban... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Clouds spread throughout the sky behind Launch Pad 39B where Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits after the scrub of its launch on mission STS-115. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Towering above the shuttle is the 80-foot lightning mast. At right is the 300,000-gallon water tank that releases its contents onto the mobile launcher platform during liftoff to aid sound suppression. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2057

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Clouds spread throughout the sky behind...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Clouds spread throughout the sky behind Launch Pad 39B where Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits after the scrub of its launch on mission STS-115. Atlantis was originally scheduled... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is bathed in light on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with Fuel Cell 1. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd2047

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is bathed in lig...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is bathed in light on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A heavy bank of storm clouds gather behind Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch Aug. 27, but a scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Towering above the shuttle is the 80-foot lightning mast. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2065

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A heavy bank of storm clouds gather behi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A heavy bank of storm clouds gather behind Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch Aug. 27, but a scrub was called by mission manag... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The lights on Launch Pad 39B paint columns of light in the water next to the pad where Space Shuttle Atlantis is illuminated. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch on Aug. 27, but a scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT Sept. 8. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2072

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The lights on Launch Pad 39B paint colu...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The lights on Launch Pad 39B paint columns of light in the water next to the pad where Space Shuttle Atlantis is illuminated. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch on Aug. 2... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad. Tanner is making his fourth shuttle flight on this mission to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. On its second attempt for launch, Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT today from Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2076

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad. ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The fiery launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis makes a perfect picture against the blue Florida sky as Atlantis heads for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2114

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The fiery launch of Space Shuttle Atlanti...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The fiery launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis makes a perfect picture against the blue Florida sky as Atlantis heads for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission ST... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis appears enveloped in the smoke and steam created at liftoff from Launch Pad 39B. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. Atlantis is heading for space and its rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph & Robert Murray KSC-06pd2125

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis appears envelope...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis appears enveloped in the smoke and steam created at liftoff from Launch Pad 39B. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. Atlantis is heading for space a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Although it appears to be standing on twin columns of fire, Space Shuttle Atlantis leaps off the launch pad, heading toward space for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph & Robert Murray KSC-06pd2122

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Although it appears to be standing on tw...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Although it appears to be standing on twin columns of fire, Space Shuttle Atlantis leaps off the launch pad, heading toward space for a rendezvous with the International Space Stat... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Tree limbs frame the brilliant launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis as it flees the smoke and steam below, heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo courtesy of Nikon/Scott Andrews KSC-06pd2127

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Tree limbs frame the brilliant launch o...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Tree limbs frame the brilliant launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis as it flees the smoke and steam below, heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Mission Specialist Patrick Forrester is welcomed by astronaut Jerry Ross, chief of the Vehicle Integration Test Office at Johnson Space Center. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1347

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Mission Specialist Patrick... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow (left) and Pilot Lee Archambault head for the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. They will be making practice landings in the STA, which is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1366

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow (l...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow (left) and Pilot Lee Archambault head for the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. They will be making pract... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Early evening shadows glide across Space Shuttle Atlantis after rollback of the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39B. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servicing of payloads at the pad and then is rolled away before liftoff. In the background is the Atlantic Ocean. Extended from the fixed service structure at left is the orbiter access arm with the White Room at the end. The White Room provides entry into the orbiter. Seen above the golden external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Atlantis is scheduled to launch Sept. 6 at 12:29 p.m. EDT on mission STS-115. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned KSC landing at about 8:03 a.m. EDT on Sept. 17. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2041

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Early evening shadows glide across Spa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Early evening shadows glide across Space Shuttle Atlantis after rollback of the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39B. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter f... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson checks his helmet during suitup before heading to the launch pad. Ferguson is making his first shuttle flight on this mission to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. On its second attempt for launch, Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT today from Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2087

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson checks his helmet during suitup before heading to the launch pad. Ferguson ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean adjusts his launch suit while talking with the closeout crew. MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, is making his second shuttle flight. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC KSC-06pp2163

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, ST...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean adjusts his launch suit while talking with the closeout crew. MacLean, who represents the Canadian ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - From the top of the Vehicle Assembly Building, the fiery launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis is seen against the background of the Atlantic Ocean to the east while billows of smoke and steam roll across the launch pad. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2113

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - From the top of the Vehicle Assembly Buil...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - From the top of the Vehicle Assembly Building, the fiery launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis is seen against the background of the Atlantic Ocean to the east while billows of smoke and... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With a fiery liftoff, Space Shuttle Atlantis roars off the launch pad for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Dennis Sabo KSC-06pd2111

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With a fiery liftoff, Space Shuttle Atlan...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With a fiery liftoff, Space Shuttle Atlantis roars off the launch pad for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. After launch attempts were scrubbed A... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Commander Frederick Sturckow is greeted by Janet Petro, deputy director of Kennedy. Astronaut Jerry Ross, chief of the Vehicle Integration Test Office at Johnson Space Center, looks on. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1346

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Commander Frederick Sturck... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Mission John "Danny" Olivas prepares to exit the plane. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1351

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the K...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Mission John "Danny" Olivas... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Still in the plane, Pilot Lee Archambault is greeted by astronaut Jerry Ross, chief of the Vehicle Integration Test Office at Johnson Space Center. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1349

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the K...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Still in the plane, Pilot L... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow settles into his seat in the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. He will be making practice landings in the STA, which is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1371

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow se...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow settles into his seat in the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. He will be making practice landings in the... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Huge clouds billow on the horizon behind Space Shuttle Atlantis still sitting on Launch Pad 39B after the scrub of its launch on mission STS-115. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Towering above the shuttle is the 80-foot lightning mast. At left is the rolled-back rotating service structure with the payload changeout room open. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2056

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Huge clouds billow on the horizon behin...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Huge clouds billow on the horizon behind Space Shuttle Atlantis still sitting on Launch Pad 39B after the scrub of its launch on mission STS-115. Atlantis was originally scheduled... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After rollback of the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis is revealed. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servicing of payloads at the pad and then is rolled away before liftoff. Seen above the golden external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Below it, extending from the fixed service structure, is the orbiter access arm with the White Room at the end. The White Room provides entry into the orbiter. Atlantis is scheduled to launch Sept. 6 at 12:29 p.m. EDT on mission STS-115. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned KSC landing at about 8:03 a.m. EDT on Sept. 17. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2040

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After rollback of the rotating service ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After rollback of the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis is revealed. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servicin... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The sky is finally clear behind Launch Pad 39B where Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits after the scrub of its launch on mission STS-115. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Just above the orange external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Below, the orbiter access arm extends toward the cockpit of Atlantis with the White Room at the end. The White Room provides access into the cockpit of the vehicle. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2058

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The sky is finally clear behind Launch ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The sky is finally clear behind Launch Pad 39B where Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits after the scrub of its launch on mission STS-115. Atlantis was originally scheduled to laun... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is in the spotlight on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with Fuel Cell 1. Seen poised above the orange external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd2046

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is in the spotli...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is in the spotlight on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by miss... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is bathed in light on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with Fuel Cell 1. Seen poised above the orange external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd2049

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is bathed in lig...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is bathed in light on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is illuminated on Launch Pad 39B, while amber lights on the fixed service structure give a surreal appearance. Seen above the golden external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Lower down, and next to Atlantis, is the White Room at the end of the orbiter access arm. The White Room provides entry into the orbiter through the hatch. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch on Aug. 27, but a scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT Sept. 8. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2074

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is illuminated o...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is illuminated on Launch Pad 39B, while amber lights on the fixed service structure give a surreal appearance. Seen above the golden external tank is the v... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After suiting up, the STS-115 mission crew enthusiastically greet the onlookers as they head to the Astrovan for the ride to Launch Pad 39B. From left are Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Steven MacLean, Joseph Tanner, Pilot Christopher Ferguson and Daniel Burbank. Not seen is Commander Brent Jett. The crew is eager for another attempt at liftoff after the Sept. 8 scrub. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2107

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After suiting up, the STS-115 mission cre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After suiting up, the STS-115 mission crew enthusiastically greet the onlookers as they head to the Astrovan for the ride to Launch Pad 39B. From left are Mission Specialist Heidem... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialists Daniel Burbank (left) and Steven MacLean get help with their launch suits from the closeout crew before entering Space Shuttle Atlantis. Both astronauts are making their second shuttle flights. MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC KSC-06pp2164

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialists Daniel Burba...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialists Daniel Burbank (left) and Steven MacLean get help with their launch suits from the closeout crew before entering Space Shuttle Atlantis. Both astronau... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad for another attempt at liftoff. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. Liftoff today is scheduled for 11:15 a.m. EDT. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2091

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad f... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -As if leaping out from amidst the woods, Space Shuttle Atlantis roars off Launch Pad 39B for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2118

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -As if leaping out from amidst the woods, S...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -As if leaping out from amidst the woods, Space Shuttle Atlantis roars off Launch Pad 39B for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-tim... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles toward space, propelled by twin columns of fire from the solid rocket boosters, which are captured in the reflection on the water. The resulting clouds of smoke and steam billow across Launch Pad 39B and upward, obscuring the service structures on the pad. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC KSC-06pp2158

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles toward s...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis hurtles toward space, propelled by twin columns of fire from the solid rocket boosters, which are captured in the reflection on the water. The resulting cl... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The rotating service structure (left) on Launch Pad 39B is rolled back to reveal Space Shuttle Atlantis. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servicing of payloads at the pad and then is rolled away before liftoff. Atlantis is scheduled to launch Sept. 6 at 12:29 p.m. EDT on mission STS-115. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned KSC landing at about 8:03 a.m. EDT on Sept. 17. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2043

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The rotating service structure (left) ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The rotating service structure (left) on Launch Pad 39B is rolled back to reveal Space Shuttle Atlantis. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and serv... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space Shuttle Atlantis while lights on the fixed service structure (FSS) still illuminate the orbiter on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with Fuel Cell 1. Seen poised above the orange external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Extending from the FSS to Atlantis is the orbiter access arm with the White Room at the end. The White Room provides entry into the orbiter through the hatch. At right is the 300,000-gallon water tank that releases its contents onto the mobile launcher platform during liftoff to aid sound suppression. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2051

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space S...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space Shuttle Atlantis while lights on the fixed service structure (FSS) still illuminate the orbiter on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space Shuttle Atlantis while lights on the fixed service structure (FSS) still illuminate the orbiter on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with Fuel Cell 1. Seen poised above the orange external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Extending from the FSS to Atlantis is the orbiter access arm with the White Room at the end. The White Room provides entry into the orbiter through the hatch. At right is the 300,000-gallon water tank that releases its contents onto the mobile launcher platform during liftoff to aid sound suppression. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2052

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space S...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space Shuttle Atlantis while lights on the fixed service structure (FSS) still illuminate the orbiter on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Storm clouds roll across Launch Pad 39B where Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits on the pad. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch Aug. 27, but a scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Towering above the shuttle is the 80-foot lightning mast. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2066

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Storm clouds roll across Launch Pad 39B ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Storm clouds roll across Launch Pad 39B where Space Shuttle Atlantis still sits on the pad. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch Aug. 27, but a scrub was called by missi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The sun radiates on Space Shuttle Atlantis as it heads for space on mission STS-115 to the International Space Station. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. KSC-06pp2144

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The sun radiates on Space Shuttle Atlant...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The sun radiates on Space Shuttle Atlantis as it heads for space on mission STS-115 to the International Space Station. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several lau... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Looking like a work of art, Space Shuttle Atlantis roars into the blue Florida sky atop a column of fire for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Dennis Sabo KSC-06pd2112

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Looking like a work of art, Space Shuttle...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Looking like a work of art, Space Shuttle Atlantis roars into the blue Florida sky atop a column of fire for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Af... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis roars off the launch pad for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. In the foreground is the countdown clock, marking launch and mission-elapsed time, on the grounds of the NASA News Center. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Webb Dillard KSC-06pd2109

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis roars off the laun...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis roars off the launch pad for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. In the foreground is the countdown clock, marking launch a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis leaps off the launch pad as smoke and steam billow behind it. Atlantis is heading for space and its rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several earlier launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo courtesy of Nikon/Scott Andrews KSC-06pd2128

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis leaps off the la...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis leaps off the launch pad as smoke and steam billow behind it. Atlantis is heading for space and its rendezvous with the International Space Station on miss... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view of the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-115 as it soars over the Space Coast, taken from NASA's WB-57 aircraft. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station, delivering the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment for installation. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: Courtesy of Robert Rivers KSC-06pd2466

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view of the launch of Space Shuttle At...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view of the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-115 as it soars over the Space Coast, taken from NASA's WB-57 aircraft. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After greeting the media on the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility after their arrival, the STS-117 crew members head for crew quarters. Welcoming the crew are KSC Deputy Director Janet Petro and Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. The astronauts are (from left) Pilot Lee Archambault, Mission Specialists Patrick Forrester, John "Danny" Olivas and Steven Swanson, and astronaut Clayton Anderson, who will be joining the Expedition 15 crew on the International Space Station. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1357

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After greeting the media on the KSC Shu...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After greeting the media on the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility after their arrival, the STS-117 crew members head for crew quarters. Welcoming the crew are KSC Deputy Director Jane... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 mission crew pose for a photo on the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility after their arrival. From left are astronaut Clayton Anderson, Mission Specialists James Reilly, John "Danny" Olivas, Steven Swanson and Patrick Forrester, Pilot Lee Archambault and Commander Frederick Sturckow. Anderson will be on the mission to join the Expedition 15 crew on the International Space Station. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1355

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 mission crew pose for a pho...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 mission crew pose for a photo on the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility after their arrival. From left are astronaut Clayton Anderson, Mission Specialists James Reilly, Joh... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After rollback of the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis shines in the late afternoon sun. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servicing of payloads at the pad and then is rolled away before liftoff. At right is the 300,000-gallon water tank that releases a deluge of water across the mobile launcher platform during liftoff to aid sound suppression. Atlantis is scheduled to launch Sept. 6 at 12:29 p.m. EDT on mission STS-115. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned KSC landing at about 8:03 a.m. EDT on Sept. 17. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2045

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After rollback of the rotating service ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After rollback of the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis shines in the late afternoon sun. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Twin columns of fire propel Space Shuttle Atlantis into a clear blue sky after liftoff from Launch Pad 39B. At left is the fixed service structure, topped by the lightning mast. Clouds of smoke and steam nearly obscure the pad. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC KSC-06pp2153

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Twin columns of fire propel Space Shutt...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Twin columns of fire propel Space Shuttle Atlantis into a clear blue sky after liftoff from Launch Pad 39B. At left is the fixed service structure, topped by the lightning mast. ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Menacing storm clouds roll through the Launch Complex 39 Area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Seen in the photo is the lower parking lot for the NASA News Center where the media's vehicles and satellite trucks are situated the day before (L-1) the second scheduled launch attempt for Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-115. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2069

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Menacing storm clouds roll through the Launch Complex 39 Area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Seen in the photo is the lower parking lot for the NASA News Center where the media's... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Menacing storm clouds roll through the Launch Complex 39 Area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Framed between the horizon and the clouds is Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39B. The flag in the foreground is at the NASA News Center, near the countdown clock. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2070

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Menacing storm clouds roll through the Launch Complex 39 Area at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Framed between the horizon and the clouds is Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad. Jett is making his fourth shuttle flight on this mission to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. On its second attempt for launch, Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT today from Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2079

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad. Jett is makin... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After suiting up, the STS-115 mission crew exits the Operations and Checkout Building to board the Astrovan to Launch Pad 39B. On the left, front to back, are Pilot Christopher Ferguson and Mission Specialists Steven MacLean and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper. On the right, front to back, are Commander Brent Jett and Mission Specialists Daniel Burbank and Joseph Tanner. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2106

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After suiting up, the STS-115 mission cre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After suiting up, the STS-115 mission crew exits the Operations and Checkout Building to board the Astrovan to Launch Pad 39B. On the left, front to back, are Pilot Christopher Fer... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad for another attempt at liftoff. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2096

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad f... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank gets a final adjustment on his helmet before heading to the launch pad for another attempt at liftoff. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2097

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank gets a final adjustment on his helmet before heading to the launch p... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper pose while suiting up for the ride to Launch Pad 39B and another attempt at liftoff. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2100

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper pose while suiting up for the ride ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flaming rockets propel Space Shuttle Atlantis away from the smoke and steam below and into the sky for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph & Robert Murray KSC-06pd2126

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flaming rockets propel Space Shuttle At...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Flaming rockets propel Space Shuttle Atlantis away from the smoke and steam below and into the sky for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Lifto... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis into the deep blue sky is reflected in the nearby water framed by the green underbrush. Clouds of smoke and steam spread side to side across Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC KSC-06pp2157

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis into ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis into the deep blue sky is reflected in the nearby water framed by the green underbrush. Clouds of smoke and steam spread side to side across Lau... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper gets help with her launch suit from the closeout crew before entering Space Shuttle Atlantis. Piper is making her first shuttle flight. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC KSC-06pp2162

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, S...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper gets help with her launch suit from the closeout crew before entering Space Shuttle A... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Back at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow (left) and Pilot Lee Archambault are satisfied with their landing practice in the shuttle training aircraft (STA) behind them. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1376

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Back at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Back at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow (left) and Pilot Lee Archambault are satisfied with their landing practice in the shuttle training a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space Shuttle Atlantis while lights on the fixed service structure (FSS) still illuminate the orbiter on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with Fuel Cell 1. Seen poised above the orange external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Extending from the FSS to Atlantis is the orbiter access arm with the White Room at the end. The White Room provides entry into the orbiter through the hatch. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2050

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space Shuttle Atlantis while lights on the fixed service structure (FSS) still illuminate the orbiter on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The rotating service structure (left) on Launch Pad 39B is rolled back to reveal Space Shuttle Atlantis. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servicing of payloads at the pad and then is rolled away before liftoff. Atlantis is scheduled to launch Sept. 6 at 12:29 p.m. EDT on mission STS-115. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned KSC landing at about 8:03 a.m. EDT on Sept. 17. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2039

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The rotating service structure (left) o...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The rotating service structure (left) on Launch Pad 39B is rolled back to reveal Space Shuttle Atlantis. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Mission Specialist Steven Swanson is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. Behind Swanson, at left, is Commander Frederick Sturckow; Mission Specialist Patrick Forrester is at center; Janet Petro, deputy director of Kennedy, is at right. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1348

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the K...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew members arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility aboard T-38 jet aircraft to prepare for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on June 8. Mission Specialist Steven S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The rotating service structure (left) on Launch Pad 39B begins rolling back to reveal Space Shuttle Atlantis. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servicing of payloads at the pad and then is rolled away before liftoff. Atlantis is scheduled to launch Sept. 6 at 12:29 p.m. EDT on mission STS-115. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned KSC landing at about 8:03 a.m. EDT on Sept. 17. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2038

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The rotating service structure (left) on...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The rotating service structure (left) on Launch Pad 39B begins rolling back to reveal Space Shuttle Atlantis. The RSS provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is bathed in light on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with Fuel Cell 1. Seen poised above the orange external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd2048

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is bathed in lig...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is bathed in light on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After a week's delay of launching due to weather and technical issues, the crew of mission STS-115 enjoy the traditional breakfast before their second attempt to launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis. Seated left to right are Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Pilot Christopher Ferguson, Commander Brent Jett and Mission Specialists Steven MacLean and Daniel Burbank. MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency. Following the breakfast, the crew will don their launch suits before heading to Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2075

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After a week's delay of launching due to...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After a week's delay of launching due to weather and technical issues, the crew of mission STS-115 enjoy the traditional breakfast before their second attempt to launch on Space Sh... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean signals "go" for another attempt at liftoff. MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2092

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean signals "go" for another attempt at liftoff. MacLean is with the C... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Trailing fire and a plume of smoke, Space Shuttle Atlantis leaves a dance of lights on nearby water as it hurtles toward space for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC KSC-06pp2148

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Trailing fire and a plume of smoke, Spac...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Trailing fire and a plume of smoke, Space Shuttle Atlantis leaves a dance of lights on nearby water as it hurtles toward space for a rendezvous with the International Space Station... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett gets help with his launch suit from the closeout crew before entering Space Shuttle Atlantis. Jett is making his fourth shuttle flight. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. KSC-06pp2159

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, ST...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett gets help with his launch suit from the closeout crew before entering Space Shuttle Atlantis. Jett is making his... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Following the arrival of the STS-117 crew members at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, each briefly described their role on the mission. Here, astronaut Clayton Anderson takes his turn. Anderson will be on the mission to join the Expedition 15 crew on the International Space Station. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install a 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy a set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1353

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Following the arrival of the STS-117 cre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Following the arrival of the STS-117 crew members at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, each briefly described their role on the mission. Here, astronaut Clayton Anderson takes his... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After their arrival at KSC, STS-117 crew members take part in a payload bay walkdown on Launch Pad 39A to look at the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis. The payload includes the S3/S4 integrated truss structure for the International Space Station. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1363

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After their arrival at KSC, STS-117 cre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After their arrival at KSC, STS-117 crew members take part in a payload bay walkdown on Launch Pad 39A to look at the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis. The payload includes the S3/... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow climbs into the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. He will be making practice landings in the STA, which is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1368

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow c...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-117 Commander Frederick Sturckow climbs into the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. He will be making practice landings in the STA, which ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Back at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-117 Pilot Lee Archambault and Commander Frederick Sturckow are satisfied with their landing practice in the shuttle training aircraft (STA) behind them. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter's cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter's atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. STS-117 is scheduled to launch at 7:38 p.m. June 8. During the 11-day mission and three spacewalks, the crew will work with flight controllers at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston to install the 17-ton segment on the station's girder-like truss and deploy the set of solar arrays, S3/S4. The mission will increase the space station's power capability in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1377

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Back at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Back at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-117 Pilot Lee Archambault and Commander Frederick Sturckow are satisfied with their landing practice in the shuttle training aircraft ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space Shuttle Atlantis while lights on the fixed service structure (FSS) still illuminate the orbiter on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch at 12:29 p.m. EDT on this date, but a 24-hour scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with Fuel Cell 1. Seen poised above the orange external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Extending from the FSS to Atlantis is the orbiter access arm with the White Room at the end. The White Room provides entry into the orbiter through the hatch. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-06pd2053

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space S...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The morning sky lightens behind Space Shuttle Atlantis while lights on the fixed service structure (FSS) still illuminate the orbiter on Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis was originally s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is illuminated on Launch Pad 39B, surrounded by amber lights on the rotating and fixed service structures. Seen above the golden external tank is the vent hood (known as the "beanie cap") at the end of the gaseous oxygen vent arm. Vapors are created as the liquid oxygen in the external tank boil off. The hood vents the gaseous oxygen vapors away from the space shuttle vehicle. Atlantis was originally scheduled to launch on Aug. 27, but a scrub was called by mission managers due to a concern with fuel cell 1. Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT Sept. 8. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-06pd2073

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is illuminated o...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis is illuminated on Launch Pad 39B, surrounded by amber lights on the rotating and fixed service structures. Seen above the golden external tank is the vent ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad. Ferguson is making his first shuttle flight on this mission to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. On its second attempt for launch, Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT today from Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2078

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad. Ferguso... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper is helped with her launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad. Stefanyshyn-Piper is making her first shuttle flight on this mission to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. On its second attempt for launch, Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT today from Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2082

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper is helped with her launch and re-entry suit before hea... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad. MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency. MacLean is making his second shuttle flight on this mission to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. On its second attempt for launch, Atlantis is scheduled to lift off at 11:41 a.m. EDT today from Launch Pad 39B. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2077

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean dons his launch and re-entry suit before heading to the launch pad.... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson finishes suiting up for another attempt at liftoff. The launch attempt on Sept. 8 was scrubbed due to an issue with a fuel cut-off sensor system inside the external fuel tank. This is one of several systems that protect the shuttle's main engines by triggering their shutdown if fuel runs unexpectedly low. During the STS-115 mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. This mission is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the ISS. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2102

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson finishes suiting up for another attempt at liftoff. The launch attempt on S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The primitiveness of the dunes (foreground) clash with the technology exhibited in the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis for its rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After launch attempts were scrubbed Aug. 27 and 29 and Sept. 3 and 8 due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph & Robert Murray KSC-06pd2123

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The primitiveness of the dunes (foregrou...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The primitiveness of the dunes (foreground) clash with the technology exhibited in the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis for its rendezvous with the International Space Station on m... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis appears to spring out of the shrubbery near Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. Liftoff was on-time at 11:14:55 a.m. EDT. After several launch attempts were scrubbed due to weather and technical concerns, this launch was executed perfectly. Mission STS-115 is the 116th space shuttle flight, the 27th flight for orbiter Atlantis, and the 19th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the mission, Atlantis' astronauts will deliver and install the 17.5-ton, bus-sized P3/P4 integrated truss segment on the station. The girder-like truss includes a set of giant solar arrays, batteries and associated electronics and will provide one-fourth of the total power-generation capability for the completed station. STS-115 is scheduled to last 11 days with a planned landing at KSC KSC-06pp2154

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis appears to sprin...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Atlantis appears to spring out of the shrubbery near Launch Pad 39B. Atlantis is heading for a rendezvous with the International Space Station on mission STS-115. ... More

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