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columbia accident investigation board

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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, addresses the press at the Shuttle Landing Facility before departing KSC. Gehman and other members of the board visited sites at KSC to become familiar with Shuttle processing procedures. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0410

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman J...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, addresses the press at the Shuttle Landing Facility before departing KSC. Gehman ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at the tiles underneath the wing of Space Shuttle Endeavour. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0377

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Columbia Accident Investig...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at the tiles underneath the wing of Space Shuttle Endeavour. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with th... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at a segment of a solid rocket booster in Hangar AF (the SRB Disassembly Facility). The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0384

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at a segment of a solid rocket booster in Hangar AF (the SRB Disassembly Facility). The board is visiting sites at KSC to ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Columbia Accident Investigation Board (left) listens to Center Director Roy Bridges at the third public hearing of the Board, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., and other board members would hear from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0831

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Columbia Accident Investigation Boar...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Columbia Accident Investigation Board (left) listens to Center Director Roy Bridges at the third public hearing of the Board, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, addresses the press at the Shuttle Landing Facility before departing KSC. Gehman and other members of the board visited sites at KSC to become familiar with Shuttle processing procedures. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0411

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman J...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, addresses the press at the Shuttle Landing Facility before departing KSC. ... More

Sally Ride, First U.S. Woman in Space

Sally Ride, First U.S. Woman in Space

(June 1984) Sally Ride was the first American woman in space. Born on May 26, 1951 in Los Angeles, California, she received a Bachelor in Physics and English in 1973 from Stanford University and, later, a Maste... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around Space Shuttle Discovery as it undergoes its Orbiter Major Modification Period. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0364

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around Sp... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around Space Shuttle Endeavour as it undergoes processing in an Orbiter Processing Facility bay. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0356

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around Space Shuttle... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look over Space Shuttle Atlantis in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0368

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look over Space Shuttle Atlantis in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (fourth from right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around Space Shuttle Endeavour as it undergoes processing in an Orbiter Processing Facility bay. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0355

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (fourth from right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (center), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Martin Wilson (pointing), the shop manager. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0361

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (center), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Martin Wilson ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Martin Wilson (second from right), the shop manager. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0359

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Mart... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around Space Shuttle Endeavour by the Orbiter Processing Facility manager. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0354

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Martin Wilson (right), the shop manager. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0358

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Martin Wilson (r... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (third from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Martin Wilson (second from left), the shop manager. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0362

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (third from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Marti... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board study a diagram of a Space Shuttle orbiter. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0357

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board study a diagram of a Space Shutt... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the Columbia Accident Investigation Board looks at the nose of Space Shuttle Atlantis. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0371

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the Co...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the Columbia Accident Investigation Board looks at the nose of Space Shuttle Atlantis. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around Space Shuttle Space Shuttle Discovery as it undergoes its Orbiter Major Modification Period. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0363

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and other members of the board are given a guided tour around Sp... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look over the nose of Space Shuttle Atlantis in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. They are standing in front of the nose of Space Shuttle Atlantis in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0370

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look over the nose of Space Shuttle Atlantis in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become fa... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, is given a guided tour of the Space Shuttle Main Engine shop. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0365

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, is given a guided tour of the Space Shuttle Main Engine shop. Gehman and oth... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Martin Wilson (left), the shop manager. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0360

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (second from right), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, visits the Thermal Protection System shop and is briefed by Mar... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (fourth from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, is given a guided tour of the Space Shuttle Main Engine shop. Gehman and other members of the board are visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0366

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (fourth from left), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, is given a guided tour of the Space Shuttle Main Engine shop. Ge... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the Columbia Accident Investigation Board looks at the solid rocket booster and external tank mated with Space Shuttle Atlantis. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0372

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the Co...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building, the Columbia Accident Investigation Board looks at the solid rocket booster and external tank mated with Space Shuttle Atlantis. The board is visi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dr. James Hallock looks over a portion of a solid rocket booster in the Hangar AF (the SRB Disassembly Facility). He is a member of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board that is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0385

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dr. James Hallock looks over a portion ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Dr. James Hallock looks over a portion of a solid rocket booster in the Hangar AF (the SRB Disassembly Facility). He is a member of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board that... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board learn about the work done in Hangar AF (the SRB Disassembly Facility). Sections of solid rocket boosters surround them. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0386

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Invest...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board learn about the work done in Hangar AF (the SRB Disassembly Facility). Sections of solid rocket boosters surround them. The ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at one of the solid rocket boosters on Space Shuttle Atlantis in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0373

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Invest...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at one of the solid rocket boosters on Space Shuttle Atlantis in the Vehicle Assembly Building. The board is visiting sit... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board listen to a worker in the Orbiter Processing Facility explain part of the process of preparing a Shuttle for launch. They are standing near Space Shuttle Endeavour. In the foreground (light jacket) is Retired Navy Adm. Harold Gehman Jr., who is chairman of the board. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0378

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board listen to a worker in the Orbiter Processing Facility explain part of the process of preparing a Shuttle for launch. They are ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at areas of interest on Space Shuttle Atlantis. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0375

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Inves...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at areas of interest on Space Shuttle Atlantis. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle l... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at equipment in the Orbiter Processing Facility used during Shuttle preparation. Third from right is Retired Navy Adm. Harold Gehman Jr., who is chairman of the board. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0380

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Columbia Accident Investig...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at equipment in the Orbiter Processing Facility used during Shuttle preparation. Third from right is Retired Navy Adm. Har... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine a piece of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force Base, Shreveport, La. As part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident that claimed Columbia and her crew of seven, workers will attempt to reconstruct the orbiter inside the RLV. KSC-03pd0398

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Invest...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine a piece of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at areas of interest on Space Shuttle Endeavour. In the center is Retired Navy Adm. Harold Gehman Jr., who is chairman of the board, looking up at the underside of Endeavour The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0376

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at areas of interest on Space Shuttle Endeavour. In the center is Retired Navy Adm. Harold Gehman Jr., who is chairman of... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (left front), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, talks to KSC Shuttle Launch Director Michael Leinbach in the RLV Hangar where the Columbia debris is being organized. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force Base, Shreveport, La. As part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident that claimed Columbia and her crew of seven, workers will attempt to reconstruct the orbiter inside the RLV. KSC-03pd0397

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman J...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr. (left front), chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, talks to KSC Shuttle Launch Director Michael Leinbach in the RLV Han... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine a piece of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force Base, Shreveport, La. As part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident that claimed Columbia and her crew of seven, workers will attempt to reconstruct the orbiter inside the RLV. KSC-03pd0399

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Invest...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine a piece of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine a piece of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force Base, Shreveport, La. As part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident that claimed Columbia and her crew of seven, workers will attempt to reconstruct the orbiter inside the RLV. KSC-03pd0401

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Invest...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine a piece of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From part of the scaffolding in the Orbiter Processing Facility, members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look down at Space Shuttle Endeavour. In the center is Retired Navy Adm. Harold Gehman Jr., who is chairman of the board. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0381

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From part of the scaffolding in the Orb...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From part of the scaffolding in the Orbiter Processing Facility, members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look down at Space Shuttle Endeavour. In the center is Retir... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board are in the Orbiter Processing Facility to look over Space Shuttle Endeavour. In the center (gesturing) is the chairman, Retired Navy Adm. Harold Gehman Jr. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0382

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board are in the Orbiter Processing Facility to look over Space Shuttle Endeavour. In the center (gesturing) is the chairman, Retire... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board are in the Vehicle Assembly Building to look over Space Shuttle Atlantis (behind them). The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0374

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Invest...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board are in the Vehicle Assembly Building to look over Space Shuttle Atlantis (behind them). The board is visiting sites at KSC to ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine pieces of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force Base, Shreveport, La. As part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident that claimed Columbia and her crew of seven, workers will attempt to reconstruct the orbiter inside the RLV. KSC-03pd0402

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Invest...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine pieces of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force B... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine a piece of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force Base, Shreveport, La. As part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident that claimed Columbia and her crew of seven, workers will attempt to reconstruct the orbiter inside the RLV. KSC-03pd0400

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Invest...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board examine a piece of Columbia debris in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from the collection point at Barksdale Air Force ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look intently at some equipment in the Orbiter Processing Facility. In the center is Retired Navy Adm. Harold Gehman Jr., who is chairman of the board. The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0379

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look intently at some equipment in the Orbiter Processing Facility. In the center is Retired Navy Adm. Harold Gehman Jr., who ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at a segment of a solid rocket booster in Hangar AF (the SRB Disassembly Facility). The board is visiting sites at KSC to become familiar with the Shuttle launch process and elements. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0383

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Columbia Accident Investig...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board look at a segment of a solid rocket booster in Hangar AF (the SRB Disassembly Facility). The board is visiting sites at KSC to b... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, addresses the press at the Shuttle Landing Facility before departing KSC. Gehman and other members of the board visited sites at KSC to become familiar with Shuttle processing procedures. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0413

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman J...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, addresses the press at the Shuttle Landing Facility before departing KSC. Gehman ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, addresses the press at the Shuttle Landing Facility before departing KSC. Gehman and other members of the board visited sites at KSC to become familiar with Shuttle processing procedures. The independent board is charged with determining what caused the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the loss of its seven-member crew on Feb. 1 during reentry. KSC-03pd0412

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman J...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, addresses the press at the Shuttle Landing Facility before departing KSC. Gehman ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Roy Bridges speaks at a meeting of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., and other board members would hear from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0832

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Roy Bridges speaks at a ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Roy Bridges speaks at a meeting of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Nav... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Roy Bridges speaks at a meeting of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., and other board members would hear from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0830

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Roy Bridges speaks at a ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Roy Bridges speaks at a meeting of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Nav... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and board member Dr. John Logsdon, director of the Space Policy Institute, George Washington University, listen to expert information about the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. This was the third public hearing of the board, which was held in Cape Canaveral, Fla. KSC-03pd0836

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Geh...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, and board member Dr. John Logsdon, director of the Space Policy Institute, G... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Columbia Accident Investigation Board gathers for its third public hearing, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., and other board members would hear from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0835

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Columbia Accident Investigation Boar...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Columbia Accident Investigation Board gathers for its third public hearing, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admira... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, checks his notes during the third public hearing of the board, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, Gehman and other board members would hear from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0834

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Geh...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., chairman of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, checks his notes during the third public hearing of the board, held in Cape ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the third public hearing of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla., reporters listen intently to Center Director Roy Bridges (background, right). Board members are in the background, left. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., and other board members would hear from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0833

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the third public hearing of the Colum...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At the third public hearing of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla., reporters listen intently to Center Director Roy Bridges (background, right)... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Columbia Accident Investigation Board gathers for a second day for its third public hearing, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., and other board members have been hearing from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0838

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Columbia Accident Investigation Boar...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Columbia Accident Investigation Board gathers for a second day for its third public hearing, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, re... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Steve Altemus, shuttle test director at KSC, provides expert information to the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., and other board members have been hearing from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0840

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Steve Altemus, shuttle test director at ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Steve Altemus, shuttle test director at KSC, provides expert information to the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired N... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - William Higgins, chief of Shuttle Processing Safety and Mission Assurance Division at KSC, talks to the Columbia Accident Investigation Board during its third public hearing, held in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., and other board members would hear from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0837

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - William Higgins, chief of Shuttle Proces...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - William Higgins, chief of Shuttle Processing Safety and Mission Assurance Division at KSC, talks to the Columbia Accident Investigation Board during its third public hearing, held ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Appearing before the Columbia Accident Investigation Board are (left Michael Rudolphi, deputy director of NASA's Stennis Space Center in Bay St. Louis, Miss., and (right) Steve Altemus, shuttle test director at KSC. Over the course of two days, the Board's chairman, retired Navy Admiral Harold W. "Hal" Gehman Jr., and other board members have been hearing from experts discussing the role of the Kennedy Space Center in the Shuttle Program, Shuttle Safety and Debris Collection, Layout and Analysis and Forensic Metallurgy. KSC-03pd0839

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Appearing before the Columbia Accident I...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Appearing before the Columbia Accident Investigation Board are (left Michael Rudolphi, deputy director of NASA's Stennis Space Center in Bay St. Louis, Miss., and (right) Steve Alt... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) Dave Sanborn, Butch Lato, and Bill Brooks conduct a bond verification test on Thermal Protection System tiles newly installed on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1082

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) Dave Sanborn, Butch Lato, and Bill Brooks conduct a bond verification test on Thermal Protection Sys... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Mike Cote works on installing Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1078

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Mike Cote works on installing Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbite... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) Mike Cote, Tom Baggitt, and Jason Levandusky install Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1085

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) Mike Cote, Tom Baggitt, and Jason Levandusky install Thermal Protection System tiles on a main land... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Dave Sanborn installs Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1081

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Dave Sanborn installs Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterp... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Harrell Watts applies RTV, a room-temperature vulcanizing silicone adhesive, to a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101) on which Thermal Protection System tiles are being installed. Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1083

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Harrell Watts applies RTV, a room-temperature vulcanizing silicone adhesive, to a main landing gear door of Space... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) Harrell Watts, Mike Cote, and Jason Levandusky install Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1086

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) Harrell Watts, Mike Cote, and Jason Levandusky install Thermal Protection System tiles on a main la... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) John Kuhn, Mike Cote, and Tom Baggitt discuss the installation of Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1080

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) John Kuhn, Mike Cote, and Tom Baggitt discuss the installation of Thermal Protection System tiles on... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Dave Sanborn (left) conducts a bond verification test on Thermal Protection System tiles installed on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1084

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Dave Sanborn (left) conducts a bond verification test on Thermal Protection System tiles installed on a main land... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Harrell Watts (right) installs Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1079

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Harrell Watts (right) installs Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Harrell Watts installs Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1067

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Harrell Watts installs Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enter... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Mike Cote installs Thermal Protection System tiles on a test panel. The test panel and sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101) will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after the tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1064

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employee Mike Cote installs Thermal Protection System tiles on a test panel. The test panel and sections of Space Shuttle... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) employee Harrell Watts (right) installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). In the background, other USA employees, members of the OPF midbody TPS crew, prepare to install TPS tile on a simulated orbiter wing. The wing and the sections of Enterprise will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after the tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1066

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF)...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) employee Harrell Watts (right) installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tiles on a main landing gear door of S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) Harrell Watts, Lynn Wozniak, and Jason Levandusky install Thermal Protection System tiles on a main landing gear door of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101). Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. After the tile installation is complete, the sections will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. KSC-03pd1065

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Unit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance employees (from left) Harrell Watts, Lynn Wozniak, and Jason Levandusky install Thermal Protection System tiles on a main ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, employees from The Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., install a strain gauge on a test panel prior to installation of Thermal Protection System tile on the panel. The test panel and sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101) will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after the tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1069

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, empl...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, employees from The Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., install a strain gauge on a test panel prior to installation of Thermal Protection Syst... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, an employee from The Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., installs a strain gauge on a test panel prior to installation of Thermal Protection System tile on the panel. The test panel and sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101) will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after the tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. Sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1068

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, an e...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, an employee from The Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., installs a strain gauge on a test panel prior to installation of Thermal Protection S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) technician Mark Jetton installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile on a simulated orbiter wing. The wing, along with sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101), will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after the tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. For this initiative, sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1151

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF)...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) technician Mark Jetton installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile on a simulated orbiter wing. The wing, ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A main landing gear door mounting fixture in the Launch Equipment Shop is being used to support the Columbia mishap investigation. A simulated orbiter wing and several test panels, along with sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101), will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. For this initiative, sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1145

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A main landing gear door mounting fixtur...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A main landing gear door mounting fixture in the Launch Equipment Shop is being used to support the Columbia mishap investigation. A simulated orbiter wing and several test panels... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), Paul King, an employee of The Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., installs a strain gauge on a simulated orbiter wing in preparation for Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile installation. The wing, along with sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101), will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after the tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. For this initiative, sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1150

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF)...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), Paul King, an employee of The Boeing Co., Huntington Beach, Calif., installs a strain gauge on a simulated orbiter wing in preparation for... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) technician Mark Jetton installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile on a simulated orbiter wing. The wing, along with sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101), will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after the tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. For this initiative, sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1147

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF)...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) technician Mark Jetton installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile on a simulated orbiter wing. The wing, a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) technician Mark Jetton installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile on a simulated orbiter wing. The wing, along with sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101), will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after the tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. For this initiative, sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1148

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF)...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) technician Mark Jetton installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile on a simulated orbiter wing. The wing,... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Matt Boonstra works on a main landing gear door mounting fixture in the Launch Equipment Shop. The fixture is being used to support the Columbia mishap investigation. A simulated orbiter wing and several test panels, along with sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101), will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile installation on them is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. For this initiative, sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1146

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Matt Bo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Matt Boonstra works on a main landing gear door mounting fixture in the Launch Equipment Shop. The fixture is being used to support the Columbia mi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) technician Mark Jetton installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile on a simulated orbiter wing. The wing, along with sections of Space Shuttle orbiter Enterprise (OV-101), will be transferred to the Southwest Research Institute for testing after the tile installation is complete. The testing has been requested by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. For this initiative, sections of Enterprise were borrowed from the Smithsonian Institution's Air and Space Museum where the orbiter is being stored at the Washington Dulles International Airport. Enterprise was the first orbiter built in the Shuttle fleet and was used to conduct the Approach and Landing Test Program before the first powered Shuttle flight. KSC-03pd1149

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF)...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), United Space Alliance (USA) technician Mark Jetton installs Thermal Protection System (TPS) tile on a simulated orbiter wing. The wing, ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) inspects debris in the Columbia Debris Hangar. At right is the model of the left wing that has been used during recovery operations. Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey, former Space Shuttle commander, and Thomas P. Stafford (third from right, foreground), Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Tas...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) inspects debris in the Columbia Debris Hangar. At right is the model of the left wing that has been used during recovery op... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach (left) talks to members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) about reconstruction efforts. Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey (second from right), former Space Shuttle commander, and Thomas P. Stafford, Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, Shuttle ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach (left) talks to members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) about reconstruction efforts... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) visits the Columbia Debris Hangar . Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey (third from right), former Space Shuttle commander, and Thomas P. Stafford (fourth from right), Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Ta...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) visits the Columbia Debris Hangar . Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey (third from right), former Space Shuttle c... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) inspect some of the debris. Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey, former Space Shuttle commander, and Thomas P. Stafford (fourth from left), Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, members ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) inspect some of the debris. Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey, former... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach answers questions from the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG). Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey (fifth from left), former Space Shuttle commander, and Thomas P. Stafford, Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, Shuttle L...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach answers questions from the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG). Chairing the task group are Rich... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) look at tiles recovered. Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey, former Space Shuttle commander, and Thomas P. Stafford (center), Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, members ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Columbia Debris Hangar, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) look at tiles recovered. Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey, former Spa... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a tour of the Orbiter Processing Facility, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) look at one of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panels, being shown by Tom Roberts with United Space Alliance, from the orbiter Endeavour. Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey, former Space Shuttle commander, and Thomas P. Stafford, Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a tour of the Orbiter Processing Faci...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a tour of the Orbiter Processing Facility, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) look at one of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panels, being shown by To... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - As the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) tours the Orbiter Processing Facility, Richard O. Covey (second from left), former Space Shuttle commander, points to equipment. Covey is co-chair of the SCTG along with Thomas P. Stafford, Apollo commander. Others in the photo are William Wegner, James Adamson and Joe Engle. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - As the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight T...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - As the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) tours the Orbiter Processing Facility, Richard O. Covey (second from left), former Space Shuttle commander, points to equip... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) look over equipment in the Orbiter Processing Facility. At left (back to camera), Fernando Santos, with NASA, and Paul Ogletree (at monitor), with United Space Alliance, describe how flash thermography is used to inspect the structure of Reinforced Carbon Carbon panels and establish a baseline on panels before flight. Chairing the task group are Richard O. Covey (far right), former Space Shuttle commander, and Thomas P. Stafford, Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Stafford-Covey Return t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) look over equipment in the Orbiter Processing Facility. At left (back to camera), Fernando Santos, with NASA, an... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA worker Joy Huff (right) shows a leading edge subsystems (LESS) with tile bonded to it to members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG). From left are Dr. Amy Donahue, David Lengyel, Dr. Kathryn Clark, Richard Covey, former Space Shuttle commander, and William Wegner. Covey is co-chair of the SCTG along with Thomas P. Stafford, Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA worker Joy Huff (right) shows a le...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA worker Joy Huff (right) shows a leading edge subsystems (LESS) with tile bonded to it to members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG). From left are Dr. ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Martin Wilson, with United Space Alliance, describes an orbiter’s Thermal Protection System for members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG). Handling some of the blanket insulation are Dr. Kathryn Clark and Joe Engle. Third from left is Richard Covey, former Space Shuttle commander, who is co-chair of the SCTG, along with Thomas P. Stafford, Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Martin Wilson, with United Space Allian...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Martin Wilson, with United Space Alliance, describes an orbiter’s Thermal Protection System for members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG). Handling some of... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a tour of the Orbiter Processing Facility, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (RTFTG) look at a Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panels with a T-seal held by Tom Roberts, with United Space Alliance. From left are Richard O. Covey, former Space Shuttle commander, Dr. Kathryn Clark, James Adamson, Joe Engle, William Wegner and Dr. Amy Donahue. Chairing the task group are Covey and Thomas P. Stafford, Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a tour of the Orbiter Processing Faci...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a tour of the Orbiter Processing Facility, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (RTFTG) look at a Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panels with a T-seal held by Tom ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a tour of the Tile Shop, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) learn about PU-tiles, part of an orbiter’s Thermal Protection System. At left is Martin Wilson, with United Space Alliance. Others (left to right) around the table are James Adamson, Dr. Kathryn Clark, William Wegner, Richard Covey and Joe Engle. Covey, former Space Shuttle commander, is co-chair of the SCTG, along with Thomas P. Stafford, Apollo commander. Chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe, the task group will perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations by the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a tour of the Tile Shop, members of ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a tour of the Tile Shop, members of the Stafford-Covey Return to Flight Task Group (SCTG) learn about PU-tiles, part of an orbiter’s Thermal Protection System. At left is Mar... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds its first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. The group is co-chaired by former Shuttle commander Richard O. Covey and retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Thomas P. Stafford, who was an Apollo commander. The RTFTG was at KSC to conduct organizational activities, tour Space Shuttle facilities and receive briefings on Shuttle-related topics. The task group was chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe to perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG)...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds its first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. The group is co-chaired by former Shuttle commander Richard O. C... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds the first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. Members and staff at the table, from left, are retired Navy Rear Adm. Walter H. Cantrell, David Raspet, retired Air Force Col. Gary S. Geyer, Dr. Kathryn Clark, Dr. Decatur B. Rogers, Dr. Dan L. Crippen, Dr. Walter Broadnax and astronaut Carlos Noriega. The RTFTG was at KSC to conduct organizational activities, tour Space Shuttle facilities and receive briefings on Shuttle-related topics. The task group was chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe to perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board. The group is co-chaired by former Shuttle commander Richard O. Covey and retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Thomas P. Stafford, who was an Apollo commander.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG)...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds the first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. Members and staff at the table, from left, are retired Navy Rear ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds its first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. The group is co-chaired by former Shuttle commander Richard O. Covey and retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Thomas P. Stafford, who was an Apollo commander. The RTFTG was at KSC to conduct organizational activities, tour Space Shuttle facilities and receive briefings on Shuttle-related topics. The task group was chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe to perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds its first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. The group is co-chaired by former Shuttle commander Richard O. ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds the first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. Shown at the table on the left are Dr. Amy K. Donahue, James D. Lloyd, Robert Sieck, retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Forrest C. McCartney, Richard Kohrs, Sy Rubenstein and Dr. Charles C. Daniel. The group is co-chaired by former Shuttle commander Richard O. Covey and retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Thomas P. Stafford, who was an Apollo commander. The RTFTG was at KSC to conduct organizational activities, tour Space Shuttle facilities and receive briefings on Shuttle-related topics. The task group was chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe to perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds the first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. Shown at the table on the left are Dr. Amy K. Donahue, James D. Ll... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds the first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. Members and staff at this table, from left, are Joseph W. Cuzzupolui, retired Army Col. James C. Adamson, David Lenyel, co-chairs Richard O. Covey and retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Thomas Stafford, and retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Ralph H. Jacobson. Covey is a former astronaut and Shuttle commander. Stafford is a former astronaut and Apollo commander. The RTFTG was at KSC to conduct organizational activities, tour Space Shuttle facilities and receive briefings on Shuttle-related topics. The task group was chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe to perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG)...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) holds the first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. Members and staff at this table, from left, are Joseph W. Cuzzupo... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The news media capture the words and images of the Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) which held its first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. The group is co-chaired by former Shuttle commander Richard O. Covey and retired Air Force Lt. Gen. Thomas P. Stafford, who was an Apollo commander. The RTFTG was at KSC to conduct organizational activities, tour Space Shuttle facilities and receive briefings on Shuttle-related topics. The task group was chartered by NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe to perform an independent assessment of NASA’s implementation of the final recommendations of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The news media capture the words and im...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The news media capture the words and images of the Return To Flight Task Group (RTFTG) which held its first public meeting at the Debus Center, KSC Visitor Complex. The group is ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Thermal Protection System Facility, Tim Wright, engineering manager with United Space Alliance, tests a new tile, called "Boeing replacement insulation" or "BRI-18." The new tiles will gradually replace older tiles around main landing gear doors, external tank doors and nose landing gear doors. Currently, 10 tiles have been processed inside the facility. Discovery will receive the first BRI-18 tiles. Technicians inside the Orbiter Processing Facility are performing fit checks and will begin bonding the tiles to the vehicle this month. The raw material is manufactured by The Boeing Company in Huntington Beach, Calif. Replacing older tile with the BRI-18 tile in strategic areas is one of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board's recommendations to strengthen the orbiters. The tiles are more impact resistant than previous designs, enhancing the crew’s safety. KSC-06pd0022

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Thermal Protection System Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Thermal Protection System Facility, Tim Wright, engineering manager with United Space Alliance, tests a new tile, called "Boeing replacement insulation" or "BRI-18." The ne... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Thermal Protection System Facility, Tim Wright, engineering manager with United Space Alliance, tests a new tile, called "Boeing replacement insulation" or "BRI-18." The new tiles will gradually replace older tiles around main landing gear doors, external tank doors and nose landing gear doors. Currently, 10 tiles have been processed inside the facility. Discovery will receive the first BRI-18 tiles. Technicians inside the Orbiter Processing Facility are performing fit checks and will begin bonding the tiles to the vehicle this month. The raw material is manufactured by The Boeing Company in Huntington Beach, Calif. Replacing older tile with the BRI-18 tile in strategic areas is one of the Columbia Accident Investigation Board's recommendations to strengthen the orbiters. The tiles are more impact resistant than previous designs, enhancing the crew’s safety. KSC-06pd0021

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Thermal Protection System Facilit...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Thermal Protection System Facility, Tim Wright, engineering manager with United Space Alliance, tests a new tile, called "Boeing replacement insulation" or "BRI-18." The new... More