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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   The STS-115 crew is in the White Room on the orbiter access arm on Launch Pad 39B to get instruction on using the emergency egress system. From left are Commander Brent Jett, Pilot Chris Ferguson, and Mission Specialists Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Joseph Tanner, Steven MacLean and Daniel Burbank.  MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency.  The White Room provides access into the orbiter through the crew access hatch. The mission crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis, scheduled to take place in a window that opens Aug. 27.  During their 11-day mission to the International Space Station, the STS-115 crew will continue construction of the station and attach the payload elements, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays.  Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-06pd1774

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew is in the White Room o...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew is in the White Room on the orbiter access arm on Launch Pad 39B to get instruction on using the emergency egress system. From left are Commander Brent Jett, Pilo... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-101 crew poses on the tarmac at the Shuttle Landing Facility after arriving to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). The two days of activities include emergency egress training and a dress rehearsal for launch. Standing left to right are Mission Specialist Susan Helms, Commander James Halsell, Pilot Scott Horowitz, and Mission Speciaists Jeffrey Williams, James Voss, Yury Usachev and Mary Ellen Weber. During their mission to the International Space Station, the STS-101 crew will be delivering logistics and supplies, plus preparing the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. Also, the crew will conduct one space walk to perform maintenance on the Space Station. This will be the third assembly flight for the Space Station. STS-101 is scheduled to launch April 24 at 4:15 p.m. from Launch Pad 39A KSC00pp0447

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-101 crew poses on the tarmac at ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-101 crew poses on the tarmac at the Shuttle Landing Facility after arriving to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). The two days of activities inclu... More

The STS-101 crew wave at onlookers as they walk from the Operations and Checkout Building to the Astrovan, which will take them to Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39A for a simulated countdown exercise. Leading the way are (left) Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz and (right) Commander James D. Halsell Jr. In the second row are Mission Specialists (left) Mary Ellen Weber and (right) Jeffrey N. Williams. In the third row are Mission Specialists (left) James Voss, (waving) Susan J. Helms, and (right) Yury Usachev of Russia. The dress rehearsal for launch is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that include emergency egress training and familiarization with the payload. During their mission to the International Space Station, the STS-101 crew will be delivering logistics and supplies, plus preparing the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. Also, the crew will conduct one space walk to perform maintenance on the Space Station. This will be the third assembly flight for the Space Station. STS-101 is scheduled to launch April 24 at 4:15 p.m. from Launch Pad 39A KSC-00pp0460

The STS-101 crew wave at onlookers as they walk from the Operations an...

The STS-101 crew wave at onlookers as they walk from the Operations and Checkout Building to the Astrovan, which will take them to Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39A for a simulated countdown exercise. Le... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Pilot Terry Virts responds to a question asked by a media representative during a question-and-answer session.    The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's upcoming mission are at Kennedy for training related to their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test.  The primary payload on STS-130 is the International Space Station's Node 3, Tranquility, a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to one end of Tranquility is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top.  Endeavour's launch is targeted for Feb. 7.  For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts130/index.html.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-1331

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Pilot Terry Virts responds to a question asked by a media representative during a question-and-answer session. The ... More

STS-31 Pilot Charles F. Bolden, left, and Commander Loren J. Shriver prepare to enter the orbiter Discovery from the 195-foot level at Launch Pad 39B during the culmination of the two-day Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT).  The TCDT, conducted March 19-20, is a dress rehearsal for launch, simulating final countdown from the T-24 hour mark up to T-5 seconds.  Space shuttle mission STS-31 is set to lift off on April 12, carrying a five-member crew and the Hubble Space Telescope.  Photo credit: NASA KSC-90PC-0468

STS-31 Pilot Charles F. Bolden, left, and Commander Loren J. Shriver p...

STS-31 Pilot Charles F. Bolden, left, and Commander Loren J. Shriver prepare to enter the orbiter Discovery from the 195-foot level at Launch Pad 39B during the culmination of the two-day Terminal Countdown Dem... More

STS-77 crew at KSC for TCDT. NASA public domain image colelction.

STS-77 crew at KSC for TCDT. NASA public domain image colelction.

S96-08025 (22 April 1996) --- The STS-77 crew arrives at the Kennedy Space Center's (KSC) Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF) for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. Show... More

STS-82 crew members ride in and learn how to operate an M-113 armored personnel carrier during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities prior to launch. The four crew members dressed in their blue flight suits and visible here are, from left, Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz, Mission Specialist Joseph R. "Joe" Tanner, Mission Commander Kenneth D. Bowersox and Payload Commander Mark C. Lee. George Hoggard, a training officer with KSC Fire Services, is visible in the background at left. The 10-day STS-82 flight, which will be the second Hubble Space Telescope servicing mission, is targeted for a Feb. 11 liftoff KSC-97pc183

STS-82 crew members ride in and learn how to operate an M-113 armored ...

STS-82 crew members ride in and learn how to operate an M-113 armored personnel carrier during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities prior to launch. The four crew members dressed in their blu... More

STS-84 Pilot Eileen Marie Collins practices using a gas mask during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A. STS-84 will be the sixth docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russian Space Station Mir. It will be second space flight for Collins, who was the first woman Shuttle pilot on her initial mission, STS-63 in 1995. After docking, STS-84 Mission Specialist C. Michael Foale will transfer to the space station and become a member of the Mir 23 crew, replacing U.S. astronaut Jerry M. Linenger, who will return to Earth aboard Atlantis. Foale will live and work on Mir until mid-September when his replacement is expected to arrive on the STS-86 mission. STS-84 is targeted for a May 15 liftoff KSC-97pc741

STS-84 Pilot Eileen Marie Collins practices using a gas mask during Te...

STS-84 Pilot Eileen Marie Collins practices using a gas mask during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A. STS-84 will be the sixth docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russ... More

STS-84 Pilot Eileen Marie Collins participates in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A. Behind her is Commander Charles J. Precourt. TCDT is a dress rehearsal for the launch, which is scheduled May 15. STS-84 aboard Atlantis will be the sixth docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russian Space Station Mir. After docking, STS-84 Mission Specialist C. Michael Foale will transfer to the space station and become a member of the Mir 23 crew, replacing U.S. astronaut Jerry M. Linenger, who will return to Earth aboard Atlantis. Foale will live and work on Mir until mid-September when his replacement is expected to arrive on the STS-86 mission KSC-97pc758

STS-84 Pilot Eileen Marie Collins participates in Terminal Countdown D...

STS-84 Pilot Eileen Marie Collins participates in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A. Behind her is Commander Charles J. Precourt. TCDT is a dress rehearsal for the launch... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-85 Mission Specialist Stephen K. Robinson  (left) and Payload Specialist Bjarni V. Tryggvason check out an emergency egress  slidewire basket at the 195-foot level of Launch Pad 39A during Terminal Countdown  Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities for that mission. The primary payload aboard the  Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery is the Cryogenic Infrared Spectrometers and Telescopes  for the Atmosphere-2 (CRISTA-SPAS-2). Other STS-85 payloads include the  Manipulator Flight Demonstration (MFD), and Technology Applications and Science-1  (TAS-1) and  International Extreme Ultraviolet Hitchhiker-2 (IEH-2) KSC-97PC1118

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-85 Mission Specialist Stephen K. Rob...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-85 Mission Specialist Stephen K. Robinson (left) and Payload Specialist Bjarni V. Tryggvason check out an emergency egress slidewire basket at the 195-foot level of Launch Pa... More

STS-85 Payload Specialist Bjarni V. Tryggvason  poses in the white room at Launch Pad 39A with his ascent/reentry flight suit as he  prepares  to enter the Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery at Launch Pad 39A during Terminal  Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities for that mission. The primary payload  aboard the Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery is the Cryogenic Infrared Spectrometers and  Telescopes for the Atmosphere-2 (CRISTA-SPAS-2). Other payloads on the 11-day  mission include the Manipulator Flight Demonstration (MFD), and Technology  Applications and Science-1 (TAS-1) and International Extreme Ultraviolet Hitchhiker-2  (IEH-2) experiments KSC-97PC1105

STS-85 Payload Specialist Bjarni V. Tryggvason poses in the white roo...

STS-85 Payload Specialist Bjarni V. Tryggvason poses in the white room at Launch Pad 39A with his ascent/reentry flight suit as he prepares to enter the Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery at Launch Pad 39A duri... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER,  Fla. --  STS-86 Mission Specialists Scott E. Parazynski, at left, David A. Wolf, and Wendy B. Lawrence, at right, participate in emergency egress training at Launch Pad 39A as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. They are the three U.S. astronauts who will serve as mission specialists during the planned 10-day flight to the Russian Space Station Mir. Also serving as mission specialists will be Vladimir Georgievich Titov of the Russian Space Agency and Jean-Loup J.M. Chretien of the French Space Agency, CNES. STS-86 will be the seventh docking of the Space Shuttle with the Mir. During the docking, Wolf will transfer to the orbiting Russian station and become a member of the Mir 24 crew, replacing U.S. astronaut C. Michael Foale, who has been on the Mir since the last docking mission, STS-84, in May. Launch of Mission STS-86 aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis is targeted for Sept. 25 KSC-97PC1358

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-86 Mission Specialists Scott E. Pa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-86 Mission Specialists Scott E. Parazynski, at left, David A. Wolf, and Wendy B. Lawrence, at right, participate in emergency egress training at Launch Pad 39A as part of Ter... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER,  Fla. -- STS-86 Mission Specialist Jean-Loup J.M. Chretien of the French Space Agency, CNES, prepares to join his fellow crew members, Mission Specialists Wendy B. Lawrence and David A. Wolf, at far left, in a slidewire basket during emergency egress training at Launch Pad 39A. The crew is at KSC to participate in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. STS-86 will be the seventh docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russian Space Station Mir. Liftoff of the Space Shuttle Atlantis on Mission STS-86 is targeted for Sept. 25 KSC-97PC1373

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-86 Mission Specialist Jean-Loup J.M...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-86 Mission Specialist Jean-Loup J.M. Chretien of the French Space Agency, CNES, prepares to join his fellow crew members, Mission Specialists Wendy B. Lawrence and David A. Wo... More

STS-86 Mission Specialists Jean-Loup J.M. Chretien of the French Space Agency, at right; David A. Wolf; and Wendy B. Lawrence, at far left, take their seats inside the Space Shuttle Atlantis during a practice launch countdown called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). Seven crew members will fly to the Russian Space Station Mir for the seventh docking of the Shuttle with the Russian orbiting outpost. Liftoff is targeted for Sept. 25 KSC-97PC1374

STS-86 Mission Specialists Jean-Loup J.M. Chretien of the French Space...

STS-86 Mission Specialists Jean-Loup J.M. Chretien of the French Space Agency, at right; David A. Wolf; and Wendy B. Lawrence, at far left, take their seats inside the Space Shuttle Atlantis during a practice l... More

In preparation for Space Shuttle Mission STS-87, the crew arrives at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility to participate in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) for their mission. The TCDT is a dress rehearsal for launch. STS-87 will be the fourth flight of the United States Microgravity Payload and the Spartan-201 deployable satellite. Launch is targeted for Nov. 19 KSC-97PC1587

In preparation for Space Shuttle Mission STS-87, the crew arrives at t...

In preparation for Space Shuttle Mission STS-87, the crew arrives at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility to participate in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) for their mission. The T... More

STS-87 Payload Specialist Leonid Kadenyuk of the National Space Agency of Ukraine (NSAU) is assisted with his orange launch and entry spacesuit by NASA suit technicians at Launch Pad 39B during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The crew of the STS-87 mission is scheduled for launch Nov. 19 aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight providing the crew of each mission opportunities to participate in simulated countdown activities. The TCDT ends with a mock launch countdown culminating in a simulated main engine cut-off. The crew also spends time undergoing emergency egress training exercises at the pad and has an opportunity to view and inspect the payloads in the orbiter's payload bay KSC-97PC1621

STS-87 Payload Specialist Leonid Kadenyuk of the National Space Agency...

STS-87 Payload Specialist Leonid Kadenyuk of the National Space Agency of Ukraine (NSAU) is assisted with his orange launch and entry spacesuit by NASA suit technicians at Launch Pad 39B during Terminal Countdo... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER,  Fla. -- Jim Bell, USA senior instructor for technical training, explains the emergency egress system at KSC’s Launch Pad 39A to, left to right, STS-89 Mission Specialists Andrew Thomas, Ph.D., who will transfer to the Russian Space Station Mir, and Bonnie Dunbar, Ph.D., as well as to Commander Terrence Wilcutt. Dr. Thomas will succeed David Wolf, M.D., who will return to Earth aboard Endeavour. The seven astronauts assigned to the eighth Shuttle-Mir docking flight are completing Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at KSC. A dress rehearsal for launch, the TCDT includes emergency egress training at the launch pad and culminates with a simulated countdown. The Space Shuttle Endeavour is undergoing preparations for liftoff, scheduled for Jan. 22. Dr. Thomas will live and work on Mir until June KSC-98pc124

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Jim Bell, USA senior instructor for tec...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Jim Bell, USA senior instructor for technical training, explains the emergency egress system at KSC’s Launch Pad 39A to, left to right, STS-89 Mission Specialists Andrew Thomas, P... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER,  Fla. -- STS-89 Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas, Ph.D., participates in a question and answer session for the media as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight to provide crews with an opportunity to participate in simulated countdown activities. The STS-89 mission will be the eighth docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russian Space Station Mir. After docking, Dr. Thomas will transfer to the space station, succeeding David Wolf, M.D., who will return to Earth aboard Endeavour. Dr. Thomas will live and work on Mir until June. STS-89 is scheduled for a Jan. 22 liftoff at 9:48 p.m KSC-98pc126

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-89 Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-89 Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas, Ph.D., participates in a question and answer session for the media as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The... More

The STS-89 crew pose in the white room at the entrance to the Space Shuttle Endeavour at KSC’s Launch Pad 39A during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The crew include, from left to right, Mission Specialist James Reilly, Ph.D.; Pilot Joe Edwards Jr.; Commander Terrence Wilcutt; Mission Specialists Bonnie Dunbar, Ph.D., and Salizhan Sharipov of the Russian Space Agency. In back are, from left to right, Mission Specialists Andrew Thomas, Ph.D., and Michael Anderson. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight to provide crews with an opportunity to participate in simulated countdown activities. The STS-89 mission will be the eighth docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russian Space Station Mir. After docking, Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas, Ph.D., will transfer to the space station, succeeding David Wolf, M.D., who will return to Earth aboard Endeavour. Dr. Thomas will live and work on Mir until June. STS-89 is scheduled for a Jan. 22 liftoff at 9:48 p.m KSC-98pc128

The STS-89 crew pose in the white room at the entrance to the Space Sh...

The STS-89 crew pose in the white room at the entrance to the Space Shuttle Endeavour at KSC’s Launch Pad 39A during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The crew include, from left to right... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER,  Fla. -- The crew of the STS-89 mission, scheduled for launch Jan. 22 aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour from pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), participated in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) at KSC. Posing at the pad in front of the Shuttle Endeavour with its large orange external tank looming overhead are, from left to right, Mission Specialists Michael Anderson, Salizhan Sharipov of the Russian Space Agency, Andrew Thomas, Ph.D., James Reilly, Ph.D., Bonnie Dunbar, Ph.D.; Commander Terrence Wilcutt; and Pilot Joe Edwards Jr. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight to provide the crew of each mission with an opportunity to participate in simulated countdown activities. The TCDT ends with a mock launch countdown culminating in a simulated main engine cut-off. The crew also spends time undergoing emergency egress training exercises at the pad and has an opportunity to view and inspect the payloads in the orbiter's payload bay KSC-98pc133

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The crew of the STS-89 mission, schedul...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The crew of the STS-89 mission, scheduled for launch Jan. 22 aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour from pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), participated in the Terminal Countdown ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER,  Fla. -- Standing in a slidewire basket at KSC’s Launch Pad 39A are, left to right, STS-89 Pilot Joe Edwards Jr. and Commander Terrence Wilcutt. The seven astronauts assigned to the eighth Shuttle-Mir docking flight are completing Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. A dress rehearsal for launch, the TCDT includes emergency egress training at the launch pad and culminates with a simulated countdown. STS-89 Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas, Ph.D., will transfer to the Russian Space Station Mir and succeed David Wolf, M.D., who will return to Earth aboard Endeavour. The Space Shuttle Endeavour is undergoing preparations for liftoff, scheduled for Jan. 22. Dr. Thomas will live and work on Mir until June KSC-98pc137

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Standing in a slidewire basket at KSC’s...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Standing in a slidewire basket at KSC’s Launch Pad 39A are, left to right, STS-89 Pilot Joe Edwards Jr. and Commander Terrence Wilcutt. The seven astronauts assigned to the eighth... More

The crew of STS-90 pose in the white room at KSC's Launch Pad 39B, where they are participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight to provide crews with the opportunity to participate in simulated countdown activities. The crew include, left to right, Commander Richard Searfoss, Pilot Scott Altman, Mission Specialist Kathryn (Kay) Hire, Richard Linnehan, D.V.M., Payload Specialists James Pawelczyk, Ph.D., and Jay Buckey, M.D., and Mission Specialist Dafydd (Dave) Williams, M.D., with the Canadian Space Agency. Columbia is targeted for launch of STS-90 on April 16 at 2:19 p.m. EDT and will be the second mission of 1998. The mission is scheduled to last nearly 17 days KSC-98pc435

The crew of STS-90 pose in the white room at KSC's Launch Pad 39B, whe...

The crew of STS-90 pose in the white room at KSC's Launch Pad 39B, where they are participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle fl... More

Members of the STS-90 flight crew train in the braking pit area for the emergency egress system slidewire baskets for Launch Pad 39B during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities for that mission. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight to provide crews with the opportunity to participate in simulated countdown activities. From left to right are Commander Richard Searfoss, Mission Specialist Kathryn (Kay) Hire, Pilot Scott Altman, Payload Specialist Jay Buckey, M.D. (behind), Mission Specialist Dafydd (Dave) Williams, M.D., with the Canadian Space Agency, Payload Specialist James Pawelczyk, Ph.D., and Mission Specialist Richard Linnehan, D.V.M. Backup Payload Specialists Alexander Dunlap (holding camera), D.V.M., M.D., and Chiaki Mukai, M.D., Ph.D., with the National Space Development Agency of Japan are also listening to USA technical trainer Bob Parks' instruction. Columbia is targeted for launch of STS-90 on April 16 at 2:19 p.m. EDT and will be the second mission of 1998. The mission is scheduled to last nearly 17 days KSC-98pc438

Members of the STS-90 flight crew train in the braking pit area for th...

Members of the STS-90 flight crew train in the braking pit area for the emergency egress system slidewire baskets for Launch Pad 39B during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities for that missi... More

STS-91 Pilot Dominic L. Pudwill Gorie (Cdr., USN) arrives at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a T-38 jet. He is here to participate in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. The STS-91 launch is targeted for June 2 with a launch window opening around 6:10 p.m. EDT. The mission will conclude Phase I of the joint U.S.-Russian International Space Station Program. Although it will be the ninth Shuttle docking with the Russian Space Station Mir, it will be the first Mir docking for the Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery. Gorie is making his first space flight. The STS-91 mission will also be the first flight for the new Space Shuttle super lightweight external tank. The STS-91 flight crew also includes Mission Commander Charles Precourt and Mission Specialists Wendy B. Lawrence; Franklin Chang-Diaz, Ph.D.; Janet Kavandi, Ph.D; and Valery Ryumin, with the Russian Space Agency. Andrew Thomas, Ph.D., will be returning to Earth with the crew after living aboard Mir since January 25, 1998 KSC-98pc582

STS-91 Pilot Dominic L. Pudwill Gorie (Cdr., USN) arrives at Kennedy S...

STS-91 Pilot Dominic L. Pudwill Gorie (Cdr., USN) arrives at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a T-38 jet. He is here to participate in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a d... More

In front of the bunker near Launch Pad 39-B, the STS-95 crew members (at left) respond to questions about the mission and training from 106 reporters and photographers during a brief break from the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). From left they are Mission Specialist Scott E. Parazynski, Mission Specialist Stephen K. Robinson, who also serves as Payload Commander, Pilot Steven W. Lindsey, Mission Commander Curtis L. Brown, Mission Specialist Pedro Duque of Spain, representing the European Space Agency (ESA), Payload Specialist Chiaki Mukai, representing the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), and Payload Specialist John H. Glenn Jr., senator from Ohio, holding a microphone. The crew were at the pad for emergency egress training after the break. Above them are the slidewires leading to the catch nets for the baskets that are used in emergency egress. The TCDT also involves mission familiarization activities and a simulated main engine cut-off exercise. The STS-95 mission, targeted for liftoff on Oct. 29, includes research payloads such as the Spartan solar-observing deployable spacecraft, the Hubble Space Telescope Orbital Systems Test Platform, the International Extreme Ultraviolet Hitchhiker, as well as the SPACEHAB single module with experiments on space flight and the aging process. Following the TCDT, the crew will be returning to Houston for final flight preparations KSC-98pc1267

In front of the bunker near Launch Pad 39-B, the STS-95 crew members (...

In front of the bunker near Launch Pad 39-B, the STS-95 crew members (at left) respond to questions about the mission and training from 106 reporters and photographers during a brief break from the Terminal Cou... More

STS-88 Mission Specialist James H. Newman gives a thumbs up on his nighttime arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility in a T-38 jet aircraft to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT provides the crew with simulated countdown exercises, emergency egress training, and opportunities to inspect their mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Mission STS-88 is targeted for launch on Dec. 3, 1998. It is the first U.S. flight for the assembly of the International Space Station and will carry the Unity connecting module. Others in the STS-88 crew are Mission Commander Robert D. Cabana, Pilot Frederick W. "Rick" Sturckow, Mission Specialists Nancy J. Currie, Jerry L. Ross, and Sergei Krikalev, a Russian cosmonaut. Ross and Newman will make three spacewalks to connect power, data and utility lines and install exterior equipment KSC-98pc1486

STS-88 Mission Specialist James H. Newman gives a thumbs up on his nig...

STS-88 Mission Specialist James H. Newman gives a thumbs up on his nighttime arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility in a T-38 jet aircraft to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activitie... More

STS-88 Mission Commander Robert D. Cabana suits up in the Operations and Checkout Building prior, as part of flight crew equipment fit check, to his trip to Launch Pad 39A. He is helped by suit tech (right) Lloyd Armintor and an unidentified KSC worker. The crew are at KSC to participate in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) which includes mission familiarization activities, emergency egress training, and the simulated main engine cut-off exercise. This is Cabana's fourth space flight. Mission STS-88 is targeted for launch on Dec. 3, 1998. It is the first U.S. flight for the assembly of the International Space Station and will carry the Unity connecting module KSC-98pc1528

STS-88 Mission Commander Robert D. Cabana suits up in the Operations a...

STS-88 Mission Commander Robert D. Cabana suits up in the Operations and Checkout Building prior, as part of flight crew equipment fit check, to his trip to Launch Pad 39A. He is helped by suit tech (right) Llo... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER,  Fla. -- STS-88 Mission Specialists Sergei Konstantinovich Krikalev (left) and James H. Newman (right) are ready to leave Launch Pad 39A in the slidewire basket during an emergency egress exercise. The crew are at KSC to participate in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) which includes mission familiarization activities, emergency egress training, and the simulated main engine cut-off exercise. Mission STS-88 is targeted for launch on Dec. 3, 1998. It is the first U.S. flight for the assembly of the International Space Station and will carry the Unity connecting module. Unity will be mated with the already orbiting Russian-built Zarya control module. The 12-day mission includes three planned spacewalks to connect power, data and utility lines and install exterior equipment KSC-98pc1537

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-88 Mission Specialists Sergei Konst...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-88 Mission Specialists Sergei Konstantinovich Krikalev (left) and James H. Newman (right) are ready to leave Launch Pad 39A in the slidewire basket during an emergency egress ... More

At Launch Pad 39B, STS-96 Mission Specialist Julie Payette, with the Canadian Space Agency, and Pilot Rick Douglas Husband practice putting on oxygen gas masks as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT provides the crew with emergency egress traiing, simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Other crew members taking part in the TCDT are Commander Kent V. Rominger and Mission Specialists Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.), Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.), Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.) and Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, with the Russian Space Agency. Scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., STS-96 is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0469

At Launch Pad 39B, STS-96 Mission Specialist Julie Payette, with the C...

At Launch Pad 39B, STS-96 Mission Specialist Julie Payette, with the Canadian Space Agency, and Pilot Rick Douglas Husband practice putting on oxygen gas masks as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (... More

The STS-96 crew take a photo break during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39B. From left, they are Mission Specialists Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.), Julie Payette, Ellen Ochoa (Ph.D.), Commander Kent V. Rominger, Mission Specialist Tamara E. Jernigan (Ph.D.) and Pilot Rick Douglas Husband. Payette is with the Canadian Space Agency and Tokarev with the Russian Space Agency. The TCDT provides simulated countdown exercises, emergency egress training and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. STS-96, which is scheduled for liftoff on May 20 at 9:32 a.m., is a logistics and resupply mission for the International Space Station, carrying such payloads as a Russian crane, the Strela; a U.S.-built crane; the Spacehab Oceaneering Space System Box (SHOSS), a logistics items carrier; and STARSHINE, a student-led experiment KSC-99pp0463

The STS-96 crew take a photo break during Terminal Countdown Demonstra...

The STS-96 crew take a photo break during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39B. From left, they are Mission Specialists Valery Ivanovich Tokarev, Daniel Barry (M.D., Ph.D.),... More

STS-93 Commander Eileen M. Collins (with microphone) talks to the press at a question and answer session at the slidewire basket area of Launch Pad 39B. She is joined by other crew members (from left) Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby and Mission Specialists Catherine G. Coleman (Ph.D.), Steven A. Hawley (Ph.D.) and Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). The crew members have been taking part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which familiarizes them with the mission, provides training in emergency exit from the orbiter and launch pad, and includes a launch-day dress rehearsal culminating with a simulated main engine cut-off. The primary mission of STS-93 is the release of the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which will allow scientists from around the world to obtain unprecedented X-ray images of exotic environments in space to help understand the structure and evolution of the universe. The targeted launch date for STS-93 is no earlier than July 20 at 12:36 a.m. EDT from Launch Pad 39B KSC-99pp0748

STS-93 Commander Eileen M. Collins (with microphone) talks to the pres...

STS-93 Commander Eileen M. Collins (with microphone) talks to the press at a question and answer session at the slidewire basket area of Launch Pad 39B. She is joined by other crew members (from left) Pilot Jef... More

During an emergency egress exercise at the launch pad, Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby (left) and Commander Eileen M. Collins (right) hurry down the yellow-painted path to a slidewire basket. The baskets are part of an emergency escape route for persons in the Shuttle and on the Rotating Service Structure. The STS-93 crew members have been taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that include the emergency exit training and a launch-day dress rehearsal culminating with a simulated main engine cut-off. Other crew members participating are Mission Specialists Catherine G. Coleman (Ph.D.), Steven A. Hawley (Ph.D.), and Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). Collins is the first woman to serve as a Shuttle commander. The primary mission of STS-93 is the release of the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which will allow scientists from around the world to obtain unprecedented X-ray images of exotic environments in space to help understand the structure and evolution of the universe. The targeted launch date for STS-93 is no earlier than July 20 at 12:36 a.m. EDT from Launch Pad 39B KSC-99pp0759

During an emergency egress exercise at the launch pad, Pilot Jeffrey S...

During an emergency egress exercise at the launch pad, Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby (left) and Commander Eileen M. Collins (right) hurry down the yellow-painted path to a slidewire basket. The baskets are part of an ... More

STS-103 Mission Specialist Claude Nicollier of Switzerland, with the European Space Agency, smiles after landing at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to begin Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT provides the crew with emergency egress training, opportunities to inspect their mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay, and simulated countdown exercises. Also participating are Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr., Pilot Scott J. Kelly, and Mission Specialists Steven L. Smith, C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), and Jean-François Clervoy of France, also with the European Space Agency. The mission, to service the Hubble Space Telescope, is targeted for launch Dec. 6 at 2:37 a.m. EST aboard Space Shuttle Discovery KSC-99pp1298

STS-103 Mission Specialist Claude Nicollier of Switzerland, with the E...

STS-103 Mission Specialist Claude Nicollier of Switzerland, with the European Space Agency, smiles after landing at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to begin Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test... More

STS-103 Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr. gets ready to take the helm of a small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. STS-103 is a "call-up" mission due to the need to replace and repair portions of the Hubble Space Telescope. Four EVA's are planned to make the necessary repairs and replacements on the telescope. The other STS-103 crew members are Pilot Scott J. Kelly, and Mission Specialists Steven L. Smith , C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.), John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.), plus Claude Nicollier of Switzerland and Jean-François Clervoy of France, who are with the European Space Agency. The mission is targeted for launch Dec. 6 at 2:37 a.m. EST KSC-99pp1317

STS-103 Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr. gets ready to take the helm of a...

STS-103 Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr. gets ready to take the helm of a small armored personnel carrier that is part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. T... More

Wearing their launch suits, the STS-103 crew exit the Operations and Checkout Building at KSC, heading for the Astrovan that will take them to Launch Pad 39B and more Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. In front (left to right) are Pilot Scott J. Kelly and Commander Curtis L. Brown Jr.; in the second row are Mission Specialists John M. Grunsfeld (Ph.D.) and Jean-François Clervoy of France, who is with the European Space Agency (ESA); in the third row are C. Michael Foale (Ph.D.) and Claude Nicollier of Switzerland, also with ESA; and at the rear is Mission Specialist Steven L. Smith. The TCDT provides the crew with emergency egress training, opportunities to inspect their mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay, and simulated countdown exercises. STS-103 is a "call-up" mission due to the need to replace and repair portions of the Hubble Space Telescope, including the gyroscopes that allow the telescope to point at stars, galaxies and planets. The STS-103 crew will be replacing a Fine Guidance Sensor, an older computer with a new enhanced model, an older data tape recorder with a solid-state digital recorder, a failed spare transmitter with a new one, and degraded insulation on the telescope with new thermal insulation. The crew will also install a Battery Voltage/Temperature Improvement Kit to protect the spacecraft batteries from overcharging and overheating when the telescope goes into a safe mode. Four EVA's are planned to make the necessary repairs and replacements on the telescope. The mission is targeted for launch Dec. 6 at 2:37 a.m. EST KSC-99pp1322

Wearing their launch suits, the STS-103 crew exit the Operations and C...

Wearing their launch suits, the STS-103 crew exit the Operations and Checkout Building at KSC, heading for the Astrovan that will take them to Launch Pad 39B and more Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT... More

STS-99 Mission Specialist Mamoru Mohri, who is with the National Space Development Agency (NASDA) of Japan, waves after his arrival at KSC aboard a T-38 training jet aircraft to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). The TCDT provides the crew with simulated countdown exercises, emergency egress training, and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter's payload bay. Other crew members taking part are Commander Kevin Kregel, Pilot Dominic L. Pudwill Gorie, and Mission Specialists Janet Lynn Kavandi (Ph.D.), Janice Voss (Ph.D.), and Gerhard P.J. Thiele, with the European Space Agency. STS-99 is the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, which will chart a new course, using two antennae and a 200-foot-long section of space station-derived mast protruding from the payload bay to produce unrivaled 3-D images of the Earth's surface. The result of the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission could be close to 1 trillion measurements of the Earth's topography. Besides contributing to the production of better maps, these measurements could lead to improved water drainage modeling, more realistic flight simulators, better locations for cell phone towers, and enhanced navigation safety. Launch of Endeavour on the 11-day mission is scheduled for Jan. 31 at 12:47 p.m. EST KSC-00pp0004

STS-99 Mission Specialist Mamoru Mohri, who is with the National Space...

STS-99 Mission Specialist Mamoru Mohri, who is with the National Space Development Agency (NASDA) of Japan, waves after his arrival at KSC aboard a T-38 training jet aircraft to take part in a Terminal Countdow... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-101 crew poses on the tarmac at the Shuttle Landing Facility after arriving to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). The two days of activities include emergency egress training and a dress rehearsal for launch. Standing left to right are Mission Specialist Susan Helms, Commander James Halsell, Pilot Scott Horowitz, and Mission Speciaists Jeffrey Williams, James Voss, Yury Usachev and Mary Ellen Weber. During their mission to the International Space Station, the STS-101 crew will be delivering logistics and supplies, plus preparing the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. Also, the crew will conduct one space walk to perform maintenance on the Space Station. This will be the third assembly flight for the Space Station. STS-101 is scheduled to launch April 24 at 4:15 p.m. from Launch Pad 39A KSC-00pp0447

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-101 crew poses on the tarmac at ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-101 crew poses on the tarmac at the Shuttle Landing Facility after arriving to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). The two days of activities inclu... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla.  --  After Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A, the STS-101 crew talk to the media. At the far left is George Diller, with NASA Public Affairs, who is moderating the event. At the microphone Commander James D. Halsell Jr. answers a question. Next to him, standing left to right, are Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz and Mission Specialists Mary Ellen Weber, Jeffrey N. Williams, James Voss, Susan J. Helms and Yury Usachev of Russia. The TCDT includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. During their mission to the International Space Station, the STS-101 crew will be delivering logistics and supplies, plus preparing the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. Also, the crew will conduct one space walk to perform maintenance on the Space Station. This will be the third assembly flight for the Space Station. STS-101 is scheduled to launch April 24 at 4:15 p.m. from Launch Pad 39A KSC-00pp0456

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- After Terminal Countdown Demonstration...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- After Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A, the STS-101 crew talk to the media. At the far left is George Diller, with NASA Public Affairs, w... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla.  --  During emergency egress training at Launch pad 39A, STS-101 Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz and Mission Specialist Yury Usachev stand in the slidewire basket at the landing zone. The Safety Egress officer (left on ground) provides training on use of the basket in the event the crew needed to exit quickly from the fixed service structure (background) at the 195-foot level. The rest of the crew, clockwise at right, are Commander James D. Halsell Jr. and Mission Specialists Jeffrey N. Williams, James Voss, Susan Helms, and (back to the camera) Mary Ellen Weber. The training is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that include a simulated launch countdown and familiarization with the payload. During their mission to the International Space Station, the STS-101 crew will be delivering logistics and supplies, plus preparing the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. Also, the crew will conduct one space walk to perform maintenance on the Space Station. This will be the third assembly flight for the Space Station. STS-101 is scheduled to launch April 24 at 4:15 p.m. from Launch Pad 39A KSC-00pp0463

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- During emergency egress training at La...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- During emergency egress training at Launch pad 39A, STS-101 Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz and Mission Specialist Yury Usachev stand in the slidewire basket at the landing zone. T... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla.  --  As part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, STS-101 Mission Specialist Jeffrey N. Williams takes the driver seat in an M-113 personnel carrier during emergency egress training at Launch pad 39A. The TCDT also includes a simulated launch countdown and familiarization with the payload. Other crew members taking part are Commander James D. Halsell Jr., Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz and Mission Specialists Mary Ellen Weber James Voss, Susan Helms, and Yury Usachev of Russia. During their mission to the International Space Station, the STS-101 crew will be delivering logistics and supplies, plus preparing the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. Also, the crew will conduct one space walk to perform maintenance on the Space Station. This will be the third assembly flight for the Space Station. STS-101 is scheduled to launch April 24 at 4:15 p.m. from Launch Pad 39A KSC00pp0464

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- As part of Terminal Countdown Demonstr...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- As part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, STS-101 Mission Specialist Jeffrey N. Williams takes the driver seat in an M-113 personnel carrier during emer... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla.  -- After Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A, the STS-101 crew answers questions from the media. From left to right are moderator George Diller, with NASA Public Affairs; Commander James D. Halsell Jr. ; Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz and Mission Specialists Mary Ellen Weber, Jeffrey N. Williams, James S. Voss, Susan J. Helms and Yury Usachev of Russia, with the microphone. The TCDT includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. During their mission to the International Space Station, the STS-101 crew will be delivering logistics and supplies, plus preparing the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. Also, the crew will conduct one space walk to perform maintenance on the Space Station. This will be the third assembly flight for the Space Station. STS-101 is scheduled to launch April 24 at 4:15 p.m. from Launch Pad 39A KSC00pp0458

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- After Terminal Countdown Demonstration ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- After Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A, the STS-101 crew answers questions from the media. From left to right are moderator George Diller,... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla.  --  After Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A, the STS-101 crew talk to the media. At the microphone is Commander James D. Halsell Jr. Next to him, standing left to right, are Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz and Mission Specialists Mary Ellen Weber, Jeffrey N. Williams, James Voss, Susan J. Helms and Yury Usachev of Russia. The TCDT includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. During their mission to the International Space Station, the STS-101 crew will be delivering logistics and supplies, plus preparing the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. Also, the crew will conduct one space walk to perform maintenance on the Space Station. This will be the third assembly flight for the Space Station. STS-101 is scheduled to launch April 24 at 4:15 p.m. from Launch Pad 39A KSC-00pp0455

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- After Terminal Countdown Demonstration...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- After Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at Launch Pad 39A, the STS-101 crew talk to the media. At the microphone is Commander James D. Halsell Jr. Next to h... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. --  STS-106 Mission Specialists Yuri I. Malenchenko, left, and Boris V. Morukov pause at the 195-foot level of Launch Pad 39-B. Malenchenko and Morukov are with the Russian Aviation and Space Agency. The flight crew were at Kennedy Space Center to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT provides the crew with emergency egress training and opportunities to inspect their mission payload in the orbiter’s payload bay. STS-106 is scheduled to launch Sept. 8, 2000, at 8:31 a.m. EDT from Launch Pad 39B. On the 11-day mission, the seven-member crew will perform support tasks on orbit, transfer supplies and prepare the living quarters in the newly arrived Zvezda Service Module. The first long-duration crew, dubbed “Expedition One,” is due to arrive at the Station in late fall KSC00pp1173

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-106 Mission Specialists Yuri I. Mal...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-106 Mission Specialists Yuri I. Malenchenko, left, and Boris V. Morukov pause at the 195-foot level of Launch Pad 39-B. Malenchenko and Morukov are with the Russian Aviation a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The STS-106 flight crew gather in the white room of Launch Pad 39-B. Crew members pictured are, from left, Mission Specialists Boris V. Morukov, Yuri I. Malenchenko, Daniel C. Burbank, Commander Terrence W. Wilcutt, Pilot Scott D. Altman, Mission Specialists Richard A. Mastracchio and Edward T. Lu. Malenchenko and Morukov are with the Russian Aviation and Space Agency. The flight crew were at Kennedy Space Center to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT provides the crew with emergency egress training and opportunities to inspect their mission payload in the orbiter’s payload bay. STS-106 is scheduled to launch Sept. 8, 2000, at 8:31 a.m. EDT from Launch Pad 39B. On the 11-day mission, the seven-member crew will perform support tasks on orbit, transfer supplies and prepare the living quarters in the newly arrived Zvezda Service Module. The first long-duration crew, dubbed “Expedition One,” is due to arrive at the Station in late fall KSC00pp1170

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The STS-106 flight crew gather in the wh...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The STS-106 flight crew gather in the white room of Launch Pad 39-B. Crew members pictured are, from left, Mission Specialists Boris V. Morukov, Yuri I. Malenchenko, Daniel C. Burb... More

STS-92 Mission Specialist Jeff Wisoff happily anticipates his chance to drive the M-113 he is in. Behind him are Commander Brian Duffy (left) and Mission Specialist Leroy Chiao, along with other crew members. Part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, the tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter’s payload bay. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:30 p.m. EDT on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC-00pp1327

STS-92 Mission Specialist Jeff Wisoff happily anticipates his chance t...

STS-92 Mission Specialist Jeff Wisoff happily anticipates his chance to drive the M-113 he is in. Behind him are Commander Brian Duffy (left) and Mission Specialist Leroy Chiao, along with other crew members. P... More

STS-92 Pilot Pam Melroy heads down the road driving the M-113, part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Capt. George Hoggard, trainer with the KSC Fire Department, keeps in voice communication with her as he rides on top. The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter’s payload bay. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:30 p.m. EDT on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC00pp1324

STS-92 Pilot Pam Melroy heads down the road driving the M-113, part of...

STS-92 Pilot Pam Melroy heads down the road driving the M-113, part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Capt. George Hoggard, trainer with the KSC Fire D... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The Expedition Three crew practices emergency egress from the orbiter as they head to the slidewire basket.  Leading is Commander Frank Culbertson, followed by cosmonauts Vladimir Nikolaevich Dezhurov and Mikhail Tyurin.  Both the STS-105 and Expedition Three crews are at Kennedy Space Center participating in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, a dress rehearsal for launch. The activities includes emergency egress training, a simulated launch countdown and familiarization with the payload. Mission STS-105 will be transporting the Expedition Three crew, several payloads and scientific experiments to the International Space Station aboard Space Shuttle Discovery. The Expedition Two crew members currently on the Station will return to Earth on Discovery. The mission is scheduled to launch no earlier than Aug. 9, 2001 KSC-01pp1348

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The Expedition Three crew practices emer...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The Expedition Three crew practices emergency egress from the orbiter as they head to the slidewire basket. Leading is Commander Frank Culbertson, followed by cosmonauts Vladimir ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - As part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, the STS-113 and Expedition 6 crews receive training in emergency exit from the orbiter on Launch Pad 39A.  Shown are (from left) Mission Commander James Wetherbee and cosmonaut Nikolai Budarin and astronaut Donald Pettit of the Expedition 6 crew.  The TCDT also includes a simulated launch countdown.  The 16th assembly flight to the International Space Station, STS-113 will carry the Port 1 (P1) truss aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour as well as the Expedition 6 crew, who will replace Expedition 5 on the Station. Mission STS-113 is scheduled to launch Nov. 10, 2002. KSC-02pd1603

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - As part of Terminal Countdown Demonstrati...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - As part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, the STS-113 and Expedition 6 crews receive training in emergency exit from the orbiter on Launch Pad 39A. Shown ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, the STS-121 crew gathers at a microphone for the media.  Seen here is Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter from Germany, who represents the European Space Agency.  Other crew members are Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers. The crew is at the space center to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121.  It will carry supplies to the International Space Station.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1047

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, the STS-121 crew gathers at a microphone for the media. Seen here is Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter fro... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-121 crew members wait to climb into the slidewire basket on Launch Pad 39B.  They are taking part in emergency egress practice, part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that include a simulated countdown culminating in main engine cutoff.  Mission STS-121 is scheduled to be launched July 1.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1097

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-121 crew members wait to climb into ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-121 crew members wait to climb into the slidewire basket on Launch Pad 39B. They are taking part in emergency egress practice, part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Tes... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The STS-121 crew concludes emergency egress practice from Launch Pad 39B with a photo at the top of the fixed service structure.  From left are Mission Specialists Michael Fossum and Thomas Reiter, Pilot Mark Kelly, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers. Reiter is from Germany and represents the European Space Agency.  The crew has been taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that include a simulated countdown culminating in main engine cutoff.  Mission STS-121 is scheduled to be launched July 1.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1101

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew concludes emergency egr...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew concludes emergency egress practice from Launch Pad 39B with a photo at the top of the fixed service structure. From left are Mission Specialists Michael Fossum a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   The STS-115 crew practices exiting from the slidewire basket, used during emergency egress from the launch pad. Sitting in the basket is Pilot Chris Ferguson. The mission crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis, scheduled to take place in a window that opens Aug. 27.  During their 11-day mission to the International Space Station, the STS-115 crew will continue construction of the station and attach the payload elements, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays.  Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-06pd1786

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew practices exiting from...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew practices exiting from the slidewire basket, used during emergency egress from the launch pad. Sitting in the basket is Pilot Chris Ferguson. The mission crew is ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   The STS-115 crew gets instructions on landing the slidewire baskets, used during emergency egress from the launch pad. From left are Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Commander Brent Jett, and Mission Specialists Daniel Burbank, Chris Ferguson and Steven MacLean, who is with the Canadian Space Agency. The mission crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis, scheduled to take place in a window that opens Aug. 27.  During their 11-day mission to the International Space Station, the STS-115 crew will continue construction of the station and attach the payload elements, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays.  Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-06pd1782

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew gets instructions on l...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew gets instructions on landing the slidewire baskets, used during emergency egress from the launch pad. From left are Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner and Heidemar... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   The STS-115 crew learn about use of the bunker in the event of an emergency at the launch pad. Seen in the photo are, from left, Commander Brent Jett, Mission Specialists Daniel Burbank and Steven MacLean, Pilot Chris Ferguson and Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner.  Not pictured is Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper.  The mission crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis, scheduled to take place in a window that opens Aug. 27.  During their 11-day mission to the International Space Station, the STS-115 crew will continue construction of the station and attach the payload elements, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays.  Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-06pd1789

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew learn about use of the...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew learn about use of the bunker in the event of an emergency at the launch pad. Seen in the photo are, from left, Commander Brent Jett, Mission Specialists Daniel B... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   The STS-115 crew walks out of the Operations and Checkout Building to head for Launch Pad 39B.  Leading the way on the left is Pilot Christopher Ferguson; behind him are Mission Specialists Steven MacLean and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper.  Leading on the right is Commander Brent Jett; behind him re Mission Specialists Daniel Burbank and Joseph Tanner.  MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency. They are taking part in a simulated launch countdown as part of the preparation for the liftoff of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-115, scheduled to take place in a window that opens Aug. 27.  The mission crew has been at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, which include emergency egress training and the simulation.  During their 11-day mission to the International Space Station, the crew will continue construction of the station and attach the payload elements, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews/Nikon KSC-06pd1815

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew walks out of the Opera...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew walks out of the Operations and Checkout Building to head for Launch Pad 39B. Leading the way on the left is Pilot Christopher Ferguson; behind him are Mission S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla.  -- The STS-118 crew arrives at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a Shuttle Training Aircraft to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach (left) welcomes Mission Specialists Tracy Caldwell, Rick Mastracchio and Dave Williams of the Canadian Space Agency, as Commander Scott Kelly (back to camera) looks on. TCDT activities include M-113 armored personnel carrier training, payload familiarization, emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-118 payload aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour includes the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug.7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1875

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The STS-118 crew arrives at Kennedy's S...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- The STS-118 crew arrives at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard a Shuttle Training Aircraft to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehears... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla.  --  STS-118 Commander Scott Kelly settles in his cockpit seat aboard the shuttle training aircraft, known as an STA, for landing practice.  The practice is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, activities that include a simulated launch countdown. 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. The STS-118 mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug. 7.  The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour includes the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3.  NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1930

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Commander Scott Kelly settles ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Commander Scott Kelly settles in his cockpit seat aboard the shuttle training aircraft, known as an STA, for landing practice. The practice is part of Terminal Countdown... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla.  --  One of two shuttle training aircraft, or STA, taxis out to the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility.  STS-118 Commander Scott Kelly and Pilot Charlie Hobaugh are each piloting one of the STAs for landing practice.  The practice is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, activities that include a simulated launch countdown. 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. The STS-118 mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug. 7.  The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour includes the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3.  NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1933

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- One of two shuttle training aircraft, ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- One of two shuttle training aircraft, or STA, taxis out to the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility. STS-118 Commander Scott Kelly and Pilot Charlie Hobaugh are each piloting ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. --  The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrive at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT.  Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide, seen here,  arrived with Pilot Ken Ham aboard a T-38 jet aircraft.  Hoshide represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA. TCDT is a rehearsal for launch that includes practicing emergency procedures, handling on-orbit equipment, and simulating a launch countdown. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System.  Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd1146

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrive at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -  The STS-125 crew members prepare to speak to the media at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida after arriving in T-38 jets for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, activities. From left are, mission specialist Megan McArthur, pilot Gregory C. Johnson, mission specialist Mike Massimino, commander Scott Altman, and mission specialists Andrew Feustel, John Grunsfeld and Michael Good. During TCDT, space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-125 crew members will participate in a simulated launch countdown, practice emergency egress procedures at the launch pad and continue to familiarize themselves with the mission payload and hardware. STS-125 is the fifth and final shuttle Hubble Space Telescope servicing mission. Launch is targeted for Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2755

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The STS-125 crew members prepare to speak to t...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The STS-125 crew members prepare to speak to the media at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida after arriving in T-38 jets for Terminal Countdown Demons... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -  Crew members for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 mission speak to the media at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida after arriving for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, activities.  From left are Mission Specialists Shane Kimbrough and Steve Bowen, Pilot Eric Boe, Commander Chris Ferguson, and Mission Specialists Donald Pettit, Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Sandra Magnus.  Magnus will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer and science officer for Expedition 18.    During TCDT, Endeavour's astronauts and launch teams will participate in a simulated countdown, practice emergency exit procedures at the launch pad and continue to familiarize themselves with the mission payload and hardware. On this 27th mission to the International Space Station, Endeavour will carry the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier and the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo that will hold supplies and equipment, including additional crew quarters, additional exercise equipment, spare hardware and equipment for the regenerative life support system.  Endeavour is targeted to launch at 7:55 p.m. EST on Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3368

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Crew members for space shuttle Endeavour's STS...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Crew members for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 mission speak to the media at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida after arriving for Terminal Countd... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -  STS-126 Mission Specialist Steve Bowen, left, is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Linebach following his arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, activities. During TCDT, Endeavour's astronauts and launch teams will participate in a simulated countdown, practice emergency exit procedures at the launch pad and continue to familiarize themselves with the mission payload and hardware. On this 27th mission to the International Space Station, Endeavour will carry the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier and the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo that will hold supplies and equipment, including additional crew quarters, additional exercise equipment, spare hardware and equipment for the regenerative life support system.  Endeavour is targeted to launch at 7:55 p.m. EST on Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3363

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-126 Mission Specialist Steve Bowen, left, ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-126 Mission Specialist Steve Bowen, left, is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Linebach following his arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -   At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson is ready to take his turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier.  Behind him is Pilot Eric Boe.  The mission crew is at Kennedy for pre-launch preparation known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT.  The training provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown.  On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3372

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson is ready to take his turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him is Pilot Eric Boe. The mi... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-126 crew poses for a photo in front of the M-113 armored personnel carrier they practiced driving.  From left are Mission Specialists Sandra Magnus, Shane Kimbrough, Steve Bowen, Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Donald Pettit; Commander Chris Ferguson; and Pilot Eric Boe.  The crew is at Kennedy for pre-launch preparation known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT.  The training provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown.  On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3387

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-126 crew poses for a photo in front of the M-113 armored personnel carrier they practiced driving. From left are Mission Specialists Sa... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -   At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Pilot Eric Boe is ready to take his turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier.  The mission crew is at Kennedy for pre-launch preparation known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT.  The training provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown.  On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3376

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Pilot Eric Boe is ready to take his turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The mission crew is at Kennedy for pre-launch p... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –  During emergency escape training on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialists Shane Kimbrough, Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Sandra Magnus test the slidewire basket.  The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit training and a simulated launch countdown.  On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3415

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – During emergency escape training on Launch Pad...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – During emergency escape training on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialists Shane Kimbrough, Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Sandra Magnus ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –    On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus is strapped into her seat in space shuttle Endeavour.   She and other crew members will take part in a simulated launch countdown. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit training and the simulated countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3438

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus is strapped into her seat in space shuttle Endeavour. She and other crew members... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –  STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus is helped adjusting her helmet during suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.  Magnus and other crew members are having their launch-and-entry suits fit-checked prior to heading for Launch Pad 39A.  The crew will take part in a simulated launch countdown at the pad. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit training and the simulated countdown.  On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3418

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus is he...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus is helped adjusting her helmet during suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Magnus and othe... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –  STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson has the fit of his helmet adjusted during suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ferguson and other crew members are having their launch-and-entry suits fit-checked prior to heading for Launch Pad 39A.  The crew will take part in a simulated launch countdown at the pad.The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit training and the simulated countdown.  On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3422A

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson has the fit o...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson has the fit of his helmet adjusted during suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ferguson and other c... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –  On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 crew members gather around the slidewire baskets used for emergency egress from the pad. From left are Mission Specialist Steve Swanson, Pilot Tony Antonelli, Mission Specialist Koichi Wakata, Commander Lee Archambault and Mission Specialist John Phillips. Practicing emergency egress is part of the prelaunch preparation known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. The TCDT also includes equipment familiarization. Discovery is targeted to launch on the STS-119 mission Feb. 12. During the 14-day mission, the crew will install the S6 truss segment and solar arrays to the starboard side of the International Space Station, completing the station's truss, or backbone. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1286

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 crew members gather around the slidewire baskets used for emergency egress from the pad. From left are Mission Specia... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-129 Mission Specialist Randy Bresnik affixes his mission's logo to an M113 armored personnel carrier.    The M113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed.  The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-129 mission are at Kennedy for training related to their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test.  Launch of Atlantis on its STS-129 mission to the International Space Station is targeted for Nov. 16. For information on the STS-129 mission objectives and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-5551

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-129 Mission Specialist Randy Bresnik affixes his mission's logo to an M113 armored personnel carrier. The M113 is kept at the foot of the... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-129 Mission Specialist Robert L. Satcher Jr. arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.  The six astronauts for space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-129 mission are at Kennedy for their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test.    Additional training associated with the test was done last month, but the simulated countdown was postponed because of a scheduling conflict with the launch of NASA’s Ares I-X test rocket.  Launch of Atlantis on its STS-129 mission to the International Space Station is set for Nov. 16. On STS-129, the crew will deliver to the station two spare gyroscopes, two nitrogen tank assemblies, two pump modules, an ammonia tank assembly and a spare latching end effector for the station's robotic arm.  For information on the STS-129 mission objectives and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-6039

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-129 Mission Specialist Robert L. Satcher Jr...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-129 Mission Specialist Robert L. Satcher Jr. arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The six astronauts for space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-129... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-129 Mission Specialist Randy Bresnik disembarks from a T-38 jet at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.  The six astronauts for space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-129 mission have arrived at Kennedy for their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test.    Additional training associated with the test was done last month, but the simulated countdown was postponed because of a scheduling conflict with the launch of NASA’s Ares I-X test rocket.  Launch of Atlantis on its STS-129 mission to the International Space Station is set for Nov. 16. On STS-129, the crew will deliver to the station two spare gyroscopes, two nitrogen tank assemblies, two pump modules, an ammonia tank assembly and a spare latching end effector for the station's robotic arm.  For information on the STS-129 mission objectives and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-6042

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-129 Mission Specialist Randy Bresnik disemb...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-129 Mission Specialist Randy Bresnik disembarks from a T-38 jet at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The six astronauts for space shuttle Atlant... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-129 Mission Specialists Mike Foreman, top, and Robert L. Satcher Jr., dressed in their launch-and-entry suits, are strapped into their seats aboard space shuttle Atlantis.  The six astronauts for space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-129 mission are participating in their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test.     Additional training associated with the test was done last month, but the simulated countdown was postponed because of a scheduling conflict with the launch of NASA’s Ares I-X test rocket.  Launch of Atlantis on its STS-129 mission to the International Space Station is set for Nov. 16.  On STS-129, the crew will deliver to the station two spare gyroscopes, two nitrogen tank assemblies, two pump modules, an ammonia tank assembly and a spare latching end effector for the station's robotic arm.  For information on the STS-129 crew and mission objectives, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-6066

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-129 Mission Specialists Mike Foreman, top, and Robert L. Satcher Jr., dressed in their launch-and-entry suits, are strappe... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-130 Mission Specialist Kathryn Hire arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard a T-38 jet.  The crew of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission is at Kennedy to participate in training and a dress rehearsal for their upcoming launch, known as the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test.  STS-130 will be Hire's second spaceflight.    The primary payload for the STS-130 mission is the International Space Station's Node 3, Tranquility, a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to one end of Tranquility is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top.  The cupola resembles a circular bay window and will provide a vastly improved view of the station's exterior. The multi-directional view will allow the crew to monitor spacewalks and docking operations, as well as provide a spectacular view of Earth and other celestial objects. The module was built in Turin, Italy, by Thales Alenia Space for the European Space Agency.  Launch of STS-130 is targeted for Feb. 7. For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts130/index.html.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-1283

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-130 Mission Specialist Kathryn Hire arrives...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-130 Mission Specialist Kathryn Hire arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard a T-38 jet. The crew of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Commander George Zamka and Pilot Terry Virts practice touch-and-go landings in a Shuttle Training Aircraft in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission.    The Shuttle Training Aircraft is a Gulfstream II jet, modified to handle like the space shuttle.  The crew members of Endeavour's upcoming mission are at Kennedy for training related to their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test.  The primary payload on STS-130 is the International Space Station's Node 3, Tranquility, a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to one end of Tranquility is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top.  Endeavour's launch is targeted for Feb. 7.  For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts130/index.html.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-1322

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kenne...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Commander George Zamka and Pilot Terry Virts practice touch-and-go landings in a Shuttle Training Aircra... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Mission Specialist Robert Behnken dons a safety helmet as he prepares to practice driving an M113 armored personnel carrier.    An M113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed.  The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission are at Kennedy for training related to their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test.  The primary payload on STS-130 is the International Space Station's Node 3, Tranquility, a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to one end of Tranquility is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top.  Endeavour's launch is targeted for Feb. 7.  For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts130/index.html.  Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-1305

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Mission Specialist Robert Behnken dons a safety helmet as he prepares to practice driving an M113 armored personnel carrier. An M113 ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is ready for its nighttime trek, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A. It will take the shuttle, attached to its external fuel tank, twin solid rocket boosters and mobile launcher platform, about six hours to complete the move atop a crawler-transporter. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October.     Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4686

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is ready for its nighttime trek, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A. It will take... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers and their friends and families watch as space shuttle Discovery begins its nighttime trek, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A. It will take the shuttle, attached to its external fuel tank, twin solid rocket boosters and mobile launcher platform, about six hours to complete the move atop a crawler-transporter. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October.      Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin KSC-2010-4717

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers and their friends and families watch as space shuttle Discovery begins its nighttime trek, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembl... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery begins its nighttime trek, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A. It will take the shuttle, attached to its external fuel tank, twin solid rocket boosters and mobile launcher platform, about six hours to complete the move atop a crawler-transporter. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October.      Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin KSC-2010-4714

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery begins its nighttime trek, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A. It will take the s... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery makes the last leg of its journey, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A. It took the shuttle, attached to its external fuel tank, twin solid rocket boosters and mobile launcher platform, about six hours to complete the move atop a crawler-transporter. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October.      Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4729

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery makes the last leg of its journey, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A. It took th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery makes the last leg of its journey, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A. It took the shuttle, attached to its external fuel tank, twin solid rocket boosters and mobile launcher platform, about six hours to complete the move atop a crawler-transporter. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October.      Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin KSC-2010-4723

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery makes the last leg of its journey, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A. It took th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the sun shines through Launch Pad 39A and hides space shuttle Discovery, which is secured to the pad structure. It took the spacecraft about six hours to make the journey, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to the pad. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October.      Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4738

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the sun shines through Launch Pad 39A and hides space shuttle Discovery, which is secured to the pad structure. It took the spacecraft about si... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space center employees snap photos and prepare to take group shots in front of space shuttle Discovery, which is visible on Launch Pad 39A. Later, the rotating service structure that protects the shuttle from the elements will be moved into place. It took the spacecraft about six hours to make the journey, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to the pad. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October.      Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2010-4743

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space center employees snap photos and prepare to take group shots in front of space shuttle Discovery, which is visible on Launch Pad 39A. Lat... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is visible on Launch Pad 39A before the rotating service structure, which protects it from the elements and provides access to the shuttle, is moved into place. It took the spacecraft about six hours to make the journey, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to the pad. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October.      Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2010-4750

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is visible on Launch Pad 39A before the rotating service structure, which protects it from the elements and provides ac... More

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-133 crew poses for a group portrait following their arrival for a practice launch dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonst... More

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-133 crew shares a light moment with Battalion Chief David Seymour, left, during training on the M-113 armored personnel carrier. An M-1... More

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-134 Pilot Greg H. Johnson listens to Commander Mark Kelly address the media on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. While at Kennedy, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will participate in a launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training in preparation for the upcoming STS-134 mission.         Endeavour and its six STS-134 crew members will deliver the Express Logistics Carrier-3, Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer-2 (AMS), a high-pressure gas tank, additional spare parts for the Dextre robotic helper and micrometeoroid debris shields to the International Space Station. This will be the final spaceflight for Endeavour. Launch is targeted for April 19 at 7:48 p.m. EDT. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2518

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-134 Pilot Greg H. Johnson listens to Comma...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-134 Pilot Greg H. Johnson listens to Commander Mark Kelly address the media on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. While at Kennedy, space shuttle... More

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