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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the payload canister atop its transporter rolls toward Launch Pad 39A. The canister contains the Columbus Lab module and integrated cargo carrier-lite payloads for space shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-122. They will be transferred into the payload changeout room on the pad. Atlantis is targeted to launch on Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd3237

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the payload canister atop its transporter rolls toward Launch Pad 39A. The canister contains the Columbus Lab module and integrated cargo carrier-li... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Changeout Room (part of the Rotation Service Structure at the launch pad), the doors of the payload canister open to reveal its cargo, the SPACEHAB module (bottom) and Unpressurized Cargo Pallet (top). The payload will be transferred from this environmentally controlled room into the payload bay of Shuttle Atlantis for mission STS-106. The 11-day mission to the International Space Station will include service module support tasks on orbit, transfer supplies and outfit the Space Station for the first long-duration crew. Atlantis is scheduled to launch Sept. 8 at 8:30 a.m. EDT. KSC-00pp1126

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Changeout Room (part of t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Changeout Room (part of the Rotation Service Structure at the launch pad), the doors of the payload canister open to reveal its cargo, the SPACEHAB module (bottom) a... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers are disconnecting and dismantling components on shuttle Endeavour. Seen here is the spacecraft's docking port in the payload bay. The work is part of Endeavour's transition and retirement processing. The spacecraft is being prepared for public display at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Endeavour flew 25 missions, spent 299 days in space, orbited Earth 4,671 times and traveled 122,883,151 miles over the course of its 19-year career. Endeavour's STS-134 and final mission was completed after landing on June 1, 2011. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-4918

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Ken...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers are disconnecting and dismantling components on shuttle Endeavour. Seen here is the spacecraft's docki... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The hazard field for the Project Morpheus lander is conveniently located near the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In the distance is the 525-foot-tall Vehicle Assembly Building. Testing of the prototype lander has been ongoing at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston in preparation for its first free flight. The SLF will provide the lander with the kind of field necessary for realistic testing, complete with rocks, craters and hazards to avoid. Morpheus utilizes an autonomous landing and hazard avoidance technology, or ALHAT, payload that will allow it to navigate to clear landing sites amidst rocks, craters and other hazards during its descent. Project Morpheus is one of 20 small projects comprising the Advanced Exploration Systems, or AES, program in NASA's Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate. AES projects pioneer new approaches for rapidly developing prototype systems, demonstrating key capabilities and validating operational concepts for future human missions beyond Earth orbit. For more information on Project Morpheus, visit http://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/exploration/morpheus/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-3360

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The hazard field for the Project Morpheus lande...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The hazard field for the Project Morpheus lander is conveniently located near the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In the distance is the 525-foot-tall... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-107 crew share a humorous moment on Launch Pad 39A during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. From left are Commander Rick Husband, Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon (the first Israeli astronaut), Pilot William "Willie" McCool, Mission Specialists Lauarel Clark and David Brown; in the foreground (back to camera) is Payload Commander Michael Anderson. The TCDT also includes a simulated launch countdown. STS-107 is a mission devoted to research and will include more than 80 experiments that will study Earth and space science, advanced technology development, and astronaut health and safety. Launch is planned for Jan. 16, 2003, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. EST aboard Space Shuttle Columbia. . KSC-02pd1975

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-107 crew share a humorous moment ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-107 crew share a humorous moment on Launch Pad 39A during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. From left are Commander Rick Husband, Payload Specialist Ilan Ra... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Sunrise at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida finds space shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39A after the payload canister carrying the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module (MPLM) was lifted into the payload changeout room on the rotating service structure. Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandra Magnus and Rex Walheim are targeted to lift off on space shuttle Atlantis July 8, taking with them the MPLM packed with supplies, logistics and spare parts to the International Space Station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-4505

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Sunrise at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Flor...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Sunrise at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida finds space shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39A after the payload canister carrying the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module (MPLM) w... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Steady progress is made to prepare equipment for construction of the launch platform for the Project Morpheus lander at the midfield of the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Testing of the prototype lander has been ongoing at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston in preparation for its first free flight. The SLF will provide the lander with the kind of field necessary for realistic testing, complete with rocks, craters and hazards to avoid. Morpheus utilizes an autonomous landing and hazard avoidance technology, or ALHAT, payload that will allow it to navigate to clear landing sites amidst rocks, craters and other hazards during its descent. Project Morpheus is one of 20 small projects comprising the Advanced Exploration Systems, or AES, program in NASA’s Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate. AES projects pioneer new approaches for rapidly developing prototype systems, demonstrating key capabilities and validating operational concepts for future human missions beyond Earth orbit. For more information on Project Morpheus, visit http://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/exploration/morpheus/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-3747

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Steady progress is made to prepare equipment fo...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Steady progress is made to prepare equipment for construction of the launch platform for the Project Morpheus lander at the midfield of the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, at NASA’s Ken... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1, members of the STS-92 crew examine equipment that will be part of their mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The fourth U.S. flight to the ISS, the mission payload includes the Integrated Truss Structure Z1, an early exterior framework to allow the first U.S. solar arrays on a future flight to be temporarily installed on Unity for early power; Ku-band communication to support early science capability and U.S. television; and PMA-3 to provide a Shuttle docking port for solar array installation on the sixth ISS flight and Lab installation on the seventh ISS flight. The crew comprises Mission Commander Brian Duffy, Pilot Pamela Melroy, and Mission Specialists Koichi Wakata, Leroy Chiao, Peter "Jeff" Wisoff, Michael Lopez-Alegria, and William McArthur. Launch of STS-92 is scheduled for Sept. 21, 2000. Wakata is with the National Space Development Agency of Japan KSC00pp0522

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1, members of the STS-92 crew examine equipment that will be part of their mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The fourth U.S. ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the lift ground support equipment positions the Space Test Program-Houston-3, or STP-H3, payload over the Express Logistics Carrier-3 or ELC-3 for installation. STP-H3 is a compliment of four individual Department of Defense experiments that will test concepts in low earth orbit for long duration flights. As the final planned mission of the Space Shuttle Program, shuttle Endeavour and its STS-134 crew will deliver the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, the ELC-3 as well as critical spare components to the International Space Station. Endeavour is targeted for launch Feb. 26, 2011. For more information visit, http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-4353

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the lift ground support equipment positions the Space Test Program-Houston-3, or STP-H3, payload over th... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Endeavour rests on Launch Pad 39A after rollout from the Vehicle Assembly Building. The Shuttle comprises the orbiter, in front, and the taller orange external tank behind it flanked by twin solid rocket boosters. On either side of Endeavour's tail and main engines are the tail service masts that support the fluid,, gas and electrical requirements of the orbiter's liquid oxyen and liquid hydrogen aft T-0 umbilicals. Mission STS-111 is designated UF-2, the 14th assembly flight to the International Space Station. Endeavour's payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo and Mobile Base System. The mission also will swap resident crews on the Station, carrying the Expedition 5 crew and returning to Earth Expedition 4. Liftoff of Endeavour is scheduled between 4 and 8 p.m. May 30, 2002 KSC-02pd0591

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Endeavour rests on Launch ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Endeavour rests on Launch Pad 39A after rollout from the Vehicle Assembly Building. The Shuttle comprises the orbiter, in front, and the taller orange external tank ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier, or LMC, lowered into the payload canister for installation. Part of the payload for space shuttle Discovery's STS-128 mission to the International Space Station, the carrier holds an ammonia tank assembly. The STS-128 flight also will carry science and storage racks to the space station on Discovery. Launch of Discovery is targeted for Aug. 18. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-3928

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier, or LMC, lowered into the payload ca... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-98 crew poses for a group photo on the 215-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure at Launch Pad 39A. Dressed in their orange launch and entry suits are (left to right) Commander Ken Cockrell, Mission Specialist Marsha Ivins, Pilot Mark Polansky and Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam and Thomas Jones. Behind them can be seen the white nose cone of a solid rocket booster and the orange external tank on Space Shuttle Atlantis. The crew is taking part in emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST KSC01pp0058

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-98 crew poses for a group photo ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-98 crew poses for a group photo on the 215-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure at Launch Pad 39A. Dressed in their orange launch and entry suits are (left to right) C... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Members of the media get an up close view of space shuttle Atlantis in her new home at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The shuttle is wrapped in a protective plastic to protect it from dust and debris while being prepared for display. Atlantis was lifted 26 feet from the ground level and slowly tilted to exactly a 43.21 angle to its portside to allow optimum viewing of the vehicle with its payload bay doors open. Atlantis is being prepared for display in the new 90,000-square-foot facility under construction at the visitor complex which is managed by Delaware North Companies Parks & Resorts. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2012-6364

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Members of the media get an up close view of sp...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Members of the media get an up close view of space shuttle Atlantis in her new home at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. The shuttle is wrapped in a protective plastic ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Perched atop the Mobile Launcher Platform, Space Shuttle Endeavour passes through the gate to Launch Pad 39B. To the right of the pad is a 290-foot tall water tower. To the left is the Fixed Service Structure and Rotating Service Structure. Endeavour is scheduled to be launched Nov. 30 at 10:01 p.m. EST on mission STS-97, the sixth construction flight to the International Space Station. Its payload includes the P6 Integrated Truss Structure and a photovoltaic (PV) module, with giant solar arrays that will provide power to the Station. The mission includes two spacewalks to complete the solar array connections KSC-00padig057

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Perched atop the Mobile Launcher Platfor...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Perched atop the Mobile Launcher Platform, Space Shuttle Endeavour passes through the gate to Launch Pad 39B. To the right of the pad is a 290-foot tall water tower. To the left is... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 crew put on their launch-and-entry suits before heading to the Astrovan for the ride to Launch Pad 39A. The crew is participating in a dress rehearsal for their upcoming launch, known as the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. Making his second spaceflight on STS-130 is Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick, seen here in his helmet. The primary payload for the STS-130 mission is the International Space Station's Tranquility node, 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-2010-1358

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 crew put on their launch-and-entry suits before heading to ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare to roll the transportation case protecting the Russian-built Mini Research Module1, or MRM1, from the cargo bay of a Volga-Dnepr Antonov AN-124-100, a Ukranian/Russian aircraft. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module, named Rassvet, will be permanently attached to the International Space Station's Zarya module on space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission. An Integrated Cargo Carrier will join the MRM in Atlantis' payload bay. Three spacewalks are planned to store spare components outside the station, including six spare batteries, a boom assembly for the Ku-band antenna and spares for the Canadian Dextre robotic arm extension. A radiator, airlock, and European robotic arm for the Russian Multi-purpose Laboratory Module also will be delivered to the station. Launch is targeted for May 14, 2010. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-6857

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, workers prepare to roll the transportation case protecting the Russian-built Mini Research Module1, or MRM1, fro... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, space shuttle Atlantis' payload bay has been thoroughly cleaned and is ready to receive the carriers transporting the instruments and equipment needed to service the Hubble Space Telescope. Atlantis is targeted to launch Oct. 8 on the STS-125 mission to service Hubble. The mission crew will perform history-making, on-orbit “surgery” on two important science instruments aboard the telescope. After capturing the telescope, two teams of spacewalking astronauts will perform the repairs during five planned spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd2122

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 1 at NASA's Kenn...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, space shuttle Atlantis' payload bay has been thoroughly cleaned and is ready to receive the carriers transporting the inst... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis' STS-135 crew members take part in a payload bay walkdown to check out the cargo secured in Atlantis' bay. Seen here inspecting the airlock is Commander Chris Ferguson. The astronauts are at Kennedy to participate in a launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training. Atlantis and its crew are targeted to lift off July 8, taking with them the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space Station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-4736

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, space shuttle Atlantis' STS-135 crew members take part in a payload bay walkdown to check out the cargo secured in Atlantis' ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers check the attachments on the ground support equipment for the STS-125 Hubble Servicing Mission as it is transferred to a work stand. The GSE are carriers, or pallets, that will hold equipment in space shuttle Atlantis’ payload bay. Under the protective covering of the carrier can be seen the soft capture mechanism. The carriers will be prepared for the integration of telescope science instruments, both internal and external replacement components, as well as the flight support equipment to be used by the astronauts during the servicing mission. The three payload carriers or pallets are the Flight Support System, the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier and the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier. At the end of July, a fourth and final carrier, the Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment carrier will join the others in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility where the Hubble payload is being prepared for launch. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-08pd2010

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers check the attachments on the ground support equipment for the STS-125 Hubble Servicing Mission as it i... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Sitting atop the Mobile Launcher Platform, Space Shuttle Atlantis inches its way to the launch pad. The Shuttle and MLP rest on top of the crawler-transporter beneath it, which moves about 1 mile per hour. Atlantis is scheduled for launch April 4 on mission STS-110, which will install the S0 truss, the framework that eventually will hold the power and cooling systems needed for future international research laboratories on the International Space Station. The Canadarm2 robotic arm will be used exclusively to hoist the 13-ton truss from the payload bay to the Station. The S0 truss will be the first major U.S. component launched to the Station since the addition of the Quest airlock in July 2001. The four spacewalks planned for the construction will all originate from the airlock. The mission will be Atlantis' 25th trip to space KSC-02pd0275

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Sitting atop the Mobile Launcher Platfor...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Sitting atop the Mobile Launcher Platform, Space Shuttle Atlantis inches its way to the launch pad. The Shuttle and MLP rest on top of the crawler-transporter beneath it, which mo... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the STS-120 crew don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A for launch aboard space shuttle Discovery to the International Space Station. Seen here is Pilot George Zamka, who is making his first shuttle flight. Discovery is scheduled for liftoff at 11:38 a.m. EDT. The mission will be the 23rd assembly flight to the space station and the 34th flight for Discovery. Payload on the mission is the Italian-built U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. During the 14-day mission, the crew will install Harmony and move the P6 solar arrays to their permanent position and deploy them. Discovery is expected to complete its mission and return home at 4:47 a.m. EST on Nov. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd2937

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the STS-120 crew don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A for launch aboard space shuttle Discovery to the International S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Perched atop the Mobile Launcher Platform, Space Shuttle Endeavour passes through the gate to Launch Pad 39B. To the right of the pad is a 290-foot tall water tower. To the left is the Fixed Service Structure and Rotating Service Structure. Endeavour is scheduled to be launched Nov. 30 at 10:01 p.m. EST on mission STS-97, the sixth construction flight to the International Space Station. Its payload includes the P6 Integrated Truss Structure and a photovoltaic (PV) module, with giant solar arrays that will provide power to the Station. The mission includes two spacewalks to complete the solar array connections KSC00padig057

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Perched atop the Mobile Launcher Platfor...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Perched atop the Mobile Launcher Platform, Space Shuttle Endeavour passes through the gate to Launch Pad 39B. To the right of the pad is a 290-foot tall water tower. To the left is... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building, an overhead crane lifts the Joint Airlock Module to move and place it into the payload canister at left for transfer to the Space Station Processing Facility. There the module will undergo more preflight processing for the STS-104 mission scheduled for launch aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis May 17, 2001. The Joint Airlock Module is the gateway from which crew members aboard the International Space Station will enter and exit the 470-ton orbiting research facility KSC-00pp1501

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building, an overhead crane lifts the Joint Airlock Module to move and place it into the payload canister at left for transfer to the Space Station P... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Orbiter Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-125 Mission Specialist Michael Good checks out part of the equipment in space shuttle Atlantis' payload bay. Equipment familiarization is part of the crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with hardware and equipment for the mission. Atlantis is targeted to launch Oct. 8 on the STS-125 mission to service the Hubble Space Telescope. The mission crew will perform history-making, on-orbit “surgery” on two important science instruments aboard the telescope. After capturing the telescope, two teams of spacewalking astronauts will perform the repairs during five planned spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd1957

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Orbiter Processing Facility at NASA's K...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Orbiter Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-125 Mission Specialist Michael Good checks out part of the equipment in space shuttle Atlantis' payload bay. Equip... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- On the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 educator astronaut and Mission Specialist Barbara R. Morgan responds to a question from the media before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Morgan joined NASA's Teacher in Space program in 1985 and was selected as an astronaut in 1998. TCDT activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1935

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- On the slidewire basket bunker area of...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- On the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 educator astronaut and Mission Specialist Barbara R. Morgan responds to a question from the media before the crew's... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-92 Commander Brian Duffy is happy to return to KSC for the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on Oct. 5. . He and other crew members Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy and Mission Specialists Koichi Wakata of Japan, Leroy Chiao, Peter J.K. “Jeff” Wisoff, Michael E. Lopez-Alegria and William S. McArthur Jr. expressed their eagerness to launch to a waiting group of media at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The mission is the fifth flight for the construction of the International Space Station. The payload includes the Integrated Truss Structure Z-1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. During the 11-day mission, four extravehicular activities (EVAs), or space walks, are planned. KSC00pp1462

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-92 Commander Brian Duffy is happy to...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-92 Commander Brian Duffy is happy to return to KSC for the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on Oct. 5. . He and other crew members Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy and Mission Speciali... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In High Bay 1 in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour hovers over the mobile launcher platform to which its external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters are secured. Next, Endeavour will be attached to the tank to complete the shuttle stack. Rollout of the stack to Kennedy’s Launch Pad 39A, a significant milestone in launch processing activities, is planned for early January 2010. The Italian-built Tranquility module, the primary payload for Endeavour's STS-130 mission, will be installed in the payload bay after the shuttle arrives at the pad. Launch is targeted for early February. For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts130/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-6777

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In High Bay 1 in the Vehicle Assembly Building ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In High Bay 1 in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour hovers over the mobile launcher platform to which its external fuel tank ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A view from inside the new “Space Shuttle Atlantis” exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, shows the buildup of the replica solid rocket boosters and external fuel tank are nearly complete near the entrance. Atlantis is being prepared for display in the 90,000-square-foot facility, scheduled to open June 29, 2013. The new $100 million facility will include interactive exhibits that tell the story of the 30-year Space Shuttle Program and highlight the future of space exploration. Visitors to the exhibit will get an up close look at Atlantis with its payload bay doors open, similar to how it looked in space. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2013-2590

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A view from inside the new “Space Shuttle Atlan...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A view from inside the new “Space Shuttle Atlantis” exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida, shows the buildup of the replica solid rocket boosters and external fue... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Payload Changeout Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the STS-129 crew, dressed in clean-room attire known as "bunny suits," pause a moment during their payload familiarization training for a photo. From left are Mission Specialists Robert L. Satcher Jr. and Leland Melvin. The training affords the crew an opportunity to observe the placement of the Express Logistics Carriers 1 and 2 in space shuttle Atlantis' payload bay before launch. The six astronauts for space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-129 mission came to Kennedy to participate 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-2009-6105

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Payload Changeout Room on Launch Pad 39A...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Payload Changeout Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the STS-129 crew, dressed in clean-room attire known as "bunny suits," pause a moment... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians in the payload changeout room have maneuvered space shuttle Atlantis' cargo, the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module (MPLM) into the shuttle's payload bay using the payload ground-handling mechanism at Launch Pad 39A. The rotating service structure that protects the shuttle from the elements and provides access has been moved back into place. STS-135 Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim are targeted to lift off on Atlantis July 8, taking with them the MPLM packed with supplies, logistics and spare parts to the station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-4598

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians in the payload changeout room have maneuvered space shuttle Atlantis' cargo, the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module (MPLM) in... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After their arrival at KSC, STS-107 Payload Commander Michael Anderson (center) and Pilot William "Willie" McCool (right) talk with Robert Hanley, who is mission lead with the Vehicle Integration Test team from Houston. STS-107 is a mission devoted to research and will include more than 80 experiments that will study Earth and space science, advanced technology development, and astronaut health and safety. The payload on Space Shuttle Columbia includes FREESTAR (Fast Reaction Experiments Enabling Science, Technology, Applications and Research) and the SHI Research Double Module (SHI/RDM), known as SPACEHAB. Experiments on the module range from material sciences to life sciences. Launch of Columbia is targeted for Jan. 16 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. KSC-03pd0052

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After their arrival at KSC, STS-107 Payl...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After their arrival at KSC, STS-107 Payload Commander Michael Anderson (center) and Pilot William "Willie" McCool (right) talk with Robert Hanley, who is mission lead with the Vehi... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 crew put on their launch-and-entry suits before heading to the Astrovan for the ride to Launch Pad 39A. The crew is participating in a dress rehearsal for their upcoming launch, known as the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. Making his first spaceflight on STS-130 is Pilot Terry Virts, seen here in his helmet. The primary payload for the STS-130 mission is the International Space Station's Tranquility node, 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-2010-1363

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 crew put on their launch-and-entry suits before heading to ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick is greeted after his arrival by Kennedy Space Center Deputy Director Bill Parsons. The crew has returned to KSC for the terminal countdown demonstration test, which are prelaunch preparations that include a simulated launch countdown. Crew members also include Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein, Mission Specialists Sunita Williams, Robert Curbeam, Christer Fuglesang and Joan Higginbotham. The mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2511

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick is greeted after his arrival by Kennedy Space Center Deputy Director Bill Parsons. The crew has returne... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Against a backdrop of clouds and framed below by banks of trees and bushes, space shuttle Atlantis roars off Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for a rendezvous with NASA's Hubble Space Telescope on the STS-125 mission. Liftoff was on time at 2:01 p.m. EDT. Atlantis' 11-day flight will include five spacewalks to refurbish and upgrade the telescope with state-of-the-art science instruments that will expand Hubble's capabilities and extend its operational lifespan through at least 2014. The payload includes a Wide Field Camera 3, fine guidance sensor and the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph-Kevin O'Connell KSC-2009-3076

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Against a backdrop of clouds and framed below b...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Against a backdrop of clouds and framed below by banks of trees and bushes, space shuttle Atlantis roars off Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida for a rendezvous with... More

In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers help guide the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Donatello as it moves the length of the SSPF toward a workstand. In the SSPF, Donatello will undergo processing by the payload test team, including integrated electrical tests with other Station elements in the SSPF, leak tests, electrical and software compatibility tests with the Space Shuttle (using the Cargo Integrated Test equipment) and an Interface Verification Test once the module is installed in the Space Shuttle’s payload bay at the launch pad. The most significant mechanical task to be performed on Donatello in the SSPF is the installation and outfitting of the racks for carrying the various experiments and cargo. Donatello will be launched on mission STS-130, currently planned for September 2004 KSC-01pp0247

In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers help guide the Multi...

In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers help guide the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Donatello as it moves the length of the SSPF toward a workstand. In the SSPF, Donatello will undergo processing by... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Workers unload a container holding the cruise stage, one of the first three elements for NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) that arrived at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility aboard an Air Force C-17 cargo plane. The cruise stage, back shell and heat shield, the first flight elements to arrive for the MSL mission, were taken to the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility (PHSF) located in the KSC Industrial Area to begin processing. The Curiosity rover will arrive next month. A United Launch Alliance Atlas V-541 configuration will be used to loft MSL into space. Curiosity’s 10 science instruments are designed to search for evidence on whether Mars has had environments favorable to microbial life, including chemical ingredients for life. The unique rover will use a laser to look inside rocks and release its gasses so that the rover’s spectrometer can analyze and send the data back to Earth. MSL is scheduled to launch from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida Nov. 25 with a window extending to Dec. 18 and arrival at Mars Aug. 2012. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/msl. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-3510

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Workers unload a container holding the cruise ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Workers unload a container holding the cruise stage, one of the first three elements for NASA's Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) that arrived at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing ... More

Workers in the Space Station Processing Facility gather with the crew of mission STS-97, who are holding the symbolic key representing the turnover of the P6 Integrated Truss Structure, part of the payload on their mission. During the ceremony the P6 truss segment was transferred from International Space Station ground operations to the NASA shuttle integration team. Commander Brent Jett (second from right) received the key in the ceremony. Standing with him are (left to right) Mission Specialists Marc Garneau, Joe Tanner and Carlos Noriega, at left; and Pilot Mike Bloomfield, at right. Mission STS-97is the sixth construction flight to the International Space Station. Its payload includes a photovoltaic (PV) module, with giant solar arrays that will provide power to the Station. The mission involves two spacewalks to complete the solar array connections. STS-97 is scheduled to launch Nov. 30 at 10:05 p.m. EST KSC-00pp1664

Workers in the Space Station Processing Facility gather with the crew ...

Workers in the Space Station Processing Facility gather with the crew of mission STS-97, who are holding the symbolic key representing the turnover of the P6 Integrated Truss Structure, part of the payload on t... More

STS-92 Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy has her helmet checked during suitup for launch, scheduled for 8:05 p.m. EDT. The mission is the fifth flight for the construction of the ISS. The payload includes the Integrated Truss Structure Z-1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. During the 11-day mission, four extravehicular activities (EVAs), or spacewalks, are planned. The Z-1 truss is the first of 10 that will become the backbone of the International Space Station, eventually stretching the length of a football field. PMA-3 will provide a Shuttle docking port for solar array installation on the sixth ISS flight and Lab installation on the seventh ISS flight. This launch is the first for Melroy. Landing is expected Oct. 21 at 3:55 p.m. EDT KSC-00pp1523

STS-92 Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy has her helmet checked during suitup fo...

STS-92 Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy has her helmet checked during suitup for launch, scheduled for 8:05 p.m. EDT. The mission is the fifth flight for the construction of the ISS. The payload includes the Integrated ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload on their mission. Here, Mission Specialist Stan Love (left) and Commander Steve Frick get a close look. The crew is participating in a crew equipment interface test that provides opportunities for hands-on experience with payloads and equipment. The other crew members are Pilot Alan Poindexter and Mission Specialists Rex Walheim, Leland Melvin and Hans Schlegel, who represents the European Space Agency. The 24th mission to the International Space Station, STS-122 will also include the Columbus European Laboratory. Launch of STS-122 on Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled no earlier than October. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0061

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-122 crew members inspect the Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure - Non-Deployable (MPESS-ND), part of the payload on their mis... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, the P5 truss for mission STS-116 is lowered into the payload canister. The canister will transport the truss to Launch Pad 39B where it will wait for installation in Space Shuttle Discovery’s payload bay. The third port truss segment, the P5 will be attached to the P3/P4 truss on the International Space Station during the 11-day mission. The window for launch of mission STS-116 opens Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd2409

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, the P5 truss for mission STS-116 is lowered into the payload canister. The canister will transport the truss to Launch Pad 39B where it ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a technician removes the protective cover from the Soft Capture and Rendezvous System, or SCRS. The SCRS will enable the future rendezvous, capture and safe disposal of Hubble by either a crewed or robotic mission. The SCRS greatly increases the current shuttle capture interfaces on Hubble, therefore significantly reducing the rendezvous and capture design complexities associated with the disposal mission. The SCRS comprises the Soft Capture Mechanism system and the Relative Navigation System and is part of the payload on the fifth and final Hubble servicing mission, STS-125, targeted for launch Oct. 8. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd2385

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a technician removes the protective cover from the Soft Capture and Rendezvous System, or SCRS. The SCRS will ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) high bay 4, installation of a Payload Bay Door Drying Enclosure is in progress. The enclosure will keep moisture from being absorbed into the graphite epoxy used on the payload bay doors of the Shuttle orbiters with the assistance of mini-Portable Purge Units (PPUs). Once in operation, the enclosure will allow NASA the option to store an orbiter in the VAB bay up to 180 days in a "standby-to-stack" mode. KSC-02pd1147

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) high ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) high bay 4, installation of a Payload Bay Door Drying Enclosure is in progress. The enclosure will keep moisture from being absorbed into the gr... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour passes the fork in the crawlerway between Launch Pad 39B, at right, and Launch Pad 39A. First motion of the 3.4-mile rollaround was at 3:16 a.m. EDT. Endeavour was on standby on Pad 39B to be used in the unlikely event that a rescue mission was necessary during space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission to NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. The payload on the STS-127 mission includes the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section of the International Space Station. They will be installed on the Kibo laboratory already on the station. Launch of STS-127 is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-3330

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour passes the fork in the crawlerway between Launch Pad 39B, at right, and Launch Pad 39A. First motion of the 3.4-mile ro... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the gaseous nitrogen tank from space shuttle Discovery's payload bay with the aid of a "fish pole" lifting fixture. The tank is being removed during processing for the shuttle's STS-131 mission to the International Space Station. The tanks are used for atmosphere conditioning and for moving potable water in the crew module. The seven-member STS-131 crew will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module filled with science racks to be transferred to laboratories on the station. Three spacewalks will include work to attach a spare ammonia tank assembly to the station's exterior and return a European experiment from outside the station's Columbus module. This will be the 33rd shuttle mission to the station. Launch is targeted for March 18, 2010. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-6101

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the gaseous nitrogen tank from space shuttle Discovery's payload bay with the aid of a "fish ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This bird's-eye view of a high bay in the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF) shows the open payload bay of Space Shuttle Discovery surrounded by the standard platforms and equipment required to process a Space Shuttle orbiter. The high bay is 197 feet (60 meters) long, 150 feet (46 meters) wide, 95 feet (29 meters) high, and encompasses a 29,000-square-foot (2,694-meter) area. The 30-ton (27-metric-ton) bridge crane (yellow device, right) has a hook height of approximately 66 feet (20 meters). Platforms, a main access bridge, and two rolling bridges with trucks provide access to various parts of the orbiter. In addition to routine servicing and checkout, the inspections and modifications made to enhance Discovery's performance and upgrade its systems were performed in the OPF during its recently completed Orbiter Major Modification (OMM) period.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This bird's-eye view of a high bay in th...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This bird's-eye view of a high bay in the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF) shows the open payload bay of Space Shuttle Discovery surrounded by the standard platforms and equipment... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane is attached to the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph, or COS, still in its shipping container. The crane will remove the COS and place it on a test stand. The COS is part of the payload on space shuttle Atlantis for the Hubble servicing mission, targeted to launch in mid-May. Installing the COS during the mission will effectively restore spectroscopy to Hubble’s scientific arsenal, and at the same time provide the telescope with unique capabilities. COS is designed to study the large-scale structure of the universe and how galaxies, stars and planets formed and evolved. It will help determine how elements needed for life such as carbon and iron first formed and how their abundances have increased over the lifetime of the universe. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-2148

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane is attached to the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph, or COS, still in its shipping container. Th... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of space shuttle Discovery's STS-131 crew participate in training activities during the Crew Equipment Interface Test, or CEIT, for their mission. Here, Mission Specialists Rick Mastracchio, left, and Clay Anderson review the placement of the hardware in Discovery's payload bay. The CEIT provides the crew with hands-on training and observation of shuttle and flight hardware. The seven-member crew will deliver the multi-purpose logistics module Leonardo, filled with resupply stowage platforms and racks to be transferred to locations around the International Space Station. Three spacewalks will include work to attach a spare ammonia tank assembly to the station's exterior and return a European experiment from outside the station's Columbus module. Discovery's launch is targeted for March 18. For information on the STS-131 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts131/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-1143

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of space shuttle Discovery's STS-131 crew participate in training activities during the Crew Equipment ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A technician controls a special crane as it lifts a newly removed fuel cell from space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The operation took place inside Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. All three of Endeavour's fuel cells were removed and will be drained of fluids. The hydrogen and oxygen dewars which feed reactants to the fuel cells remain in Endeavour's midbody and will be purged with inert gases and vented down. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program's transition and retirement processing of shuttle Endeavour, which is being prepared for public display at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Its ferry flight to California is targeted for mid-September. Endeavour was the last space shuttle added to NASA's orbiter fleet. Over the course of its 19-year career, Endeavour spent 299 days in space during 25 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Glenn Benson KSC-2012-3109

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A technician controls a special crane as it lif...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A technician controls a special crane as it lifts a newly removed fuel cell from space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The operation took place inside Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NA... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a technician assists as a special crane lifts one of the three fuel cells away from space shuttle Atlantis’ payload bay. The fuel cells will be drained of all fluids. The hydrogen and oxygen dewars which feed reactants to the fuel cells remain in Atlantis’ mid-body and will be purged with inert gases and vented down. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Atlantis. The orbiter is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-8279

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA’s ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a technician assists as a special crane lifts one of the three fuel cells away from space shuttle Atlantis’... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – During a media event at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to showcase the newest section of the International Space Station, the Tranquility node, STS-130 Commander George Zamka speaks to the media and guests. Tranquility will be delivered to the station during space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for launch in February 2010. Others present at right of Zamka are Russ Romanella, director of the ISS and Payload Processing Directorate, STS-130 Pilot Terry Virts and Mission Specialists Stephen Robinson and Kathryn Hire, Philippe Deloo, ISS Nodes project manager with the European Space Agency, and Rafael Garcia, ISS Nodes and Express Logistics Carrier project manager with NASA's Johnson Space Center. Managers from NASA, the European Space Agency, Thales Alenia Space and Boeing -- the organizations involved in building and processing the module for flight -- were available for a question-and-answer session during the event. Tranquility will be delivered to the station during space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission, targeted for launch in February 2010. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2009-3614

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – During a media event at NASA's Kennedy Space Ce...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – During a media event at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to showcase the newest section of the International Space Station, the Tranquility node, STS-130 Commander George Zamka spea... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A forklift operator offloads NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probe B, enclosed in a protective shipping container, from a flatbed truck at the Astrotech payload processing facility near NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida where Applied Physics Laboratory technicians will begin spacecraft testing and prelaunch preparations. The twin RBSP spacecraft arrived at Kennedy’s Shuttle Landing Facility in the cargo bay of a U.S. Air Force C-17 aircraft earlier in the day. The RBSP mission will help us understand the sun’s influence on Earth and near-Earth space by studying the Earth’s radiation belts on various scales of space and time. The RBSP instruments will provide the measurements needed to characterize and quantify the plasma processes that produce very energetic ions and relativistic electrons. The mission is part of NASA’s broader Living With a Star Program that was conceived to explore fundamental processes that operate throughout the solar system, and in particular those that generate hazardous space weather effects in the vicinity of Earth and phenomena that could impact solar system exploration. RBSP is scheduled to begin its mission of exploration of Earth's Van Allen Radiation Belts and the extremes of space weather after launch. Launch aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket is scheduled for August 23. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/rbsp. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-2638

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A forklift operator offloads NASA's Radiation B...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A forklift operator offloads NASA's Radiation Belt Storm Probe B, enclosed in a protective shipping container, from a flatbed truck at the Astrotech payload processing facility near NASA’... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Works at Launch Pad 39A begin closing the payload bay doors on Space Shuttle Atlantis. The payload includes the SPACEHAB Double Module (center) and two GetAway Special (GAS) canisters containing student experiments, known as MARS and SEM-06. The primary mission of STS-101 is to deliver logistics and supplies to the International Space Station, plus prepare the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. 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-00pp0495

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Works at Launch Pad 39A begin closing th...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Works at Launch Pad 39A begin closing the payload bay doors on Space Shuttle Atlantis. The payload includes the SPACEHAB Double Module (center) and two GetAway Special (GAS) canist... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- With red umbilical lines attached, the payload containing space shuttle Discovery's S6 truss and solar arrays is lifted up to the Payload Changeout Room, or PCR, on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The payload will be transferred inside the PCR where it will wait until Discovery rolls out to the pad. Then the payload will be installed in the shuttle's payload bay. Launch of Discovery on the STS-119 mission is scheduled for Feb. 12. During Discovery's 14-day mission, the crew will install the S6 truss segment and its solar arrays to the starboard side of the station, completing the station's backbone, or truss. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2009-1096

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- With red umbilical lines attached, the payloa...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- With red umbilical lines attached, the payload containing space shuttle Discovery's S6 truss and solar arrays is lifted up to the Payload Changeout Room, or PCR, on Launch Pad 39A at NA... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39A, the payload canister with the SPACEHAB Double Module and the Integrated Cargo Carrier (ICC) inside is lifted off the payload transporter toward the Payload Changeout Room (PCR) on the Rotating Service Structure (RSS). The PCR is an environmentally controlled facility supporting cargo delivery to the pad and vertical installation in the orbiter cargo bay. At right of the RSS is the Fixed Service Structure. The primary payloads on mission STS-101, the module and ICC contain internal logistics and resupply cargo for restoring full redundancy to the International Space Station power system in preparation for the arrival of the next pressurized module, the Russian-built Zvezda. The payloads will be transferred to Space Shuttle Atlantis after Atlantis rolls out to the pad. Launch of Atlantis on mission STS-101 is scheduled no earlier than April 17, 2000 KSC-00pp0369

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39A, the payload canister ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39A, the payload canister with the SPACEHAB Double Module and the Integrated Cargo Carrier (ICC) inside is lifted off the payload transporter toward the Payload Chang... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Under a dry, hot, cloud-washed Florida sky, space shuttle Atlantis roars off Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida with its crew of seven for a rendezvous with NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. The launch was on-time at 2:01 p.m. EDT. Atlantis' 11-day flight will include five spacewalks to refurbish and upgrade the telescope with state-of-the-art science instruments that will expand Hubble's capabilities and extend its operational lifespan through at least 2014. The payload includes a Wide Field Camera 3, fine guidance sensor and the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph. Photo credit: NASA/Fletcher Hildreth KSC-2009-3069

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Under a dry, hot, cloud-washed Florida sky, spa...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Under a dry, hot, cloud-washed Florida sky, space shuttle Atlantis roars off Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida with its crew of seven for a rendezvous with NASA's H... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-133 payload canister is lifted into the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39A. The payload then will be moved into space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for 4:40 p.m. EDT, Nov. 1. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2010-5019

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-133 payload canister is lifted into the rotating service structure on Launch Pad 39A. The payload then will be moved into space sh... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39-A, the STS-111 and Expedition Five crews take time out from a tour of the pad with their friends and family to pose for a group portrait. From left, they are STS-111 Pilot Paul Lockhart, STS-111 Commander Kenneth Cockrell, Expedition Five Commander Valeri Korzun (RSA), Expedition Five astronaut Peggy Whitson, Expedition Five cosmonaut Sergei Treschev (RSA), and STS-111 Mission Specialists Philippe Perrin (CNES) and Franklin Chang-Diaz. Expedition Five is traveling to the International Space Station on Space Shuttle Endeavour as the replacement crew for Expedition Four, who will return to Earth aboard the orbiter. Known as Utilization Flight 2, STS-111 is carrying supplies and equipment to the Station. The payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System, which will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS, and a replacement wrist/roll joint for Canadarm 2. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. Launch is scheduled for May 30, 2002 KSC-02pd0814

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39-A, the STS-111 and Expe...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39-A, the STS-111 and Expedition Five crews take time out from a tour of the pad with their friends and family to pose for a group portrait. From left, they are STS-... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers help guide the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section, or ELM-PS, onto a rotation stand. Part of the Japanese Experiment Module, called Kibo, the ELM-PS is the primary payload for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission, which is targeted for launch to the International Space Station on Feb. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd3476

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers help guide the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section, or ELM-PS, onto a rotation stand. ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-134 Mission Specialist Michael Finke practices using a camera he'll be snapping photos with in space. The six STS-134 astronauts are at Kennedy participating in the Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT), which gives them an opportunity for hands-on training and familiarization of the payload they'll be delivering to the International Space Station. Space shuttle Endeavour is targeted to launch on the STS-134 mission Feb. 27, 2011. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-2010-5549

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-134 Mission Specialist Michael Finke practices using a camera he'll be snapping photos with in space. ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A second shipping container of major flight hardware for space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission to NASA's Hubble Space Telescope is moved into the airlock at the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The container holds the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier, or SLIC, and the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier, or ORUC. In the facility, preparations will begin for its targeted October launch. The payload carriers will be prepared for the integration of telescope science instruments, both internal and external replacement components, as well as the flight support equipment to be used by the astronauts during the servicing mission. The three payload carriers or pallets are the Flight Support System, the SLIC and the ORUC. At the end of July, a fourth and final carrier, the Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment carrier will join the others in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility where the Hubble payload is being prepared for launch. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-08pd2023

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A second shipping container of major flight h...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A second shipping container of major flight hardware for space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission to NASA's Hubble Space Telescope is moved into the airlock at the Payload Hazardous Serv... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the high bay of the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a worker from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center removes the protective wrapping from the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier for the Hubble Space Telescope. The Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier, or ORUC, is one of four carriers supporting hardware for space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission to service the telescope. The Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier, or SLIC, and the Flight Support System, or FSS, have also arrived at Kennedy. The Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment carrier will be delivered in late July. The carriers will be prepared for the integration of telescope science instruments, both internal and external replacement components, as well as the flight support equipment to be used by the astronauts during the Hubble servicing mission, targeted for launch Oct. 8. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd2081

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the high bay of the Payload Hazardous Servic...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the high bay of the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a worker from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center removes the protective wrapping from the Orbit... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The orbiter Discovery backs out of the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 for the short rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building. First motion was at 9:23 p.m. Oct. 31. In the VAB the orbiter will be mated to its large external tank and twin solid rocket boosters already stacked on the mobile launcher platform. Space Shuttle Discovery is scheduled to roll out to Launch Pad 39B no earlier than Nov. 7 for mission STS-116. The mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. The launch window for mission STS-116 opens Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2413

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The orbiter Discovery backs out of the ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The orbiter Discovery backs out of the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 for the short rollover to the Vehicle Assembly Building. First motion was at 9:23 p.m. Oct. 31. In the VA... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians prepare a mock air lock for installation in the payload bay of the space shuttle Atlantis in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility. Atlantis is undergoing final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-4817

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians prepare a mock air lock for installation in the payload bay of the space shuttle Atlantis in Bay 2 of the Orbi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At SPACEHAB, in Cape Canaveral, the STS-101 crew inspect equipment and payload for their mission. From left to right are Mission Specialist Edward Tsang Lu, Mary Ellen Weber (Ph.D.), Commander James D. Halsell Jr. and Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz (Ph.D). are taking part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test, which gives them an opportunity to look over equipment and payloads that will fly on the mission. Space Shuttle Atlantis will be carrying the SPACEHAB Double Module, which carries internal logistics and resupply cargo for station outfitting. Launch of Atlantis on mission STS-101 is scheduled no earlier than April 13, 2000 KSC-00pp0024

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At SPACEHAB, in Cape Canaveral, the STS-...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At SPACEHAB, in Cape Canaveral, the STS-101 crew inspect equipment and payload for their mission. From left to right are Mission Specialist Edward Tsang Lu, Mary Ellen Weber (Ph.D.... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the 250-ton high bay crane suspends space shuttle Discovery above the transfer aisle, ready to lift the shuttle into the upper levels and lower it into High Bay 1. Visible on Discovery's underside are the umbilical areas, the external fuel tank attach points. In High Bay 1, Discovery will be attached to the external tank and solid rocket boosters already stacked on the mobile launcher platform. Discovery is scheduled to roll out to Launch Pad 39A the first week of August to prepare for the STS-128 mission to the International Space Station. The shuttle will carry the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module containing life support racks and science racks and the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier in its payload bay. Launch of Discovery is targeted for late August. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-4251

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the 250-ton high bay crane suspends space shuttle Discovery above the transfer aisle, ready to lift the shuttl... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Technicians in the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. install thermal insulation on NASA's Juno magnetometer boom. The boom structure is attached to Juno's solar array #1 that will help power the NASA spacecraft on its mission to Jupiter. The solar-powered spacecraft will orbit Jupiter's poles 33 times to find out more about the gas giant's origins, structure, atmosphere and magnetosphere and investigate the existence of a solid planetary core. Juno is scheduled to launch aboard an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral, Fla. Aug. 5. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/juno. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller It will splash down into the Atlantic Ocean where the ship and its crew will recover it and tow it back through Port Canaveral for refurbishing for another launch. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. Photo credit: USA/Jeff Suter KSC-2011-2821

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Technicians in the Astrotech payload processin...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Technicians in the Astrotech payload processing facility in Titusville, Fla. install thermal insulation on NASA's Juno magnetometer boom. The boom structure is attached to Juno's solar a... More

Members of the STS-102 crew check out Discovery’s payload bay in the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1. Dressed in green, they are Mission Specialist Paul W. Richards (left) and Pilot James W. Kelly. The crew is at KSC for Crew Equipment Interface Test activities. Above their heads on the left side are two of the experiments being carried on the flight. STS-102 is the 8th construction flight to the International Space Station and will carry the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo. STS-102 is scheduled for launch March 1, 2001. On that flight, Leonardo will be filled with equipment and supplies to outfit the U.S. laboratory module Destiny. The mission will also be carrying the Expedition Two crew to the Space Station, replacing the Expedition One crew who will return on Shuttle Discovery KSC01pp0173

Members of the STS-102 crew check out Discovery’s payload bay in the O...

Members of the STS-102 crew check out Discovery’s payload bay in the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1. Dressed in green, they are Mission Specialist Paul W. Richards (left) and Pilot James W. Kelly. The crew i... More

STS-97 Pilot Mike Bloomfield reaches for the control panel as he settles into his seat in the cockpit on Space Shuttle Endeavour on Launch Pad 39B. He and the rest of the crew are taking part in a simulated launch countdown, part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities that also include emergency egress training and familiarization with the payload. Mission STS-97 is the sixth construction flight to the International Space Station. Its payload includes the P6 Integrated Truss Structure and a photovoltaic (PV) module, with giant solar arrays that will provide power to the Station. The mission includes two spacewalks to complete the solar array connections. STS-97 is scheduled to launch Nov. 30 at about 10:05 p.m. EST KSC-00padig091

STS-97 Pilot Mike Bloomfield reaches for the control panel as he settl...

STS-97 Pilot Mike Bloomfield reaches for the control panel as he settles into his seat in the cockpit on Space Shuttle Endeavour on Launch Pad 39B. He and the rest of the crew are taking part in a simulated lau... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a battery charge-discharge unit is lifted by crane high above the hardware on the bay's floor. The unit is being moved toward an EXPRESS Logistics Carrier where it will be installed for flight. The carrier is part of the STS-129 payload on space shuttle Atlantis, which will deliver to the International Space 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. STS-129 is targeted to launch Nov. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2009-4680

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a battery charge-discharge unit is lifted by crane high above the hardware on the bay's floor. The unit... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building, the Joint Airlock Module waits for transfer to the payload canister behind it after which it will be moved to the Space Station Processing Facility. There it will continue to undergo preflight processing for the STS-104 mission scheduled for launch aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis May 17, 2001. The Joint Airlock Module is the gateway from which crew members aboard the International Space Station will enter and exit the 470-ton orbiting research facility KSC-00pp1497

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building, the Joint Airlock Module waits for transfer to the payload canister behind it after which it will be moved to the Space Station Processing ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery -- its nose encased in protective plastic, its cockpit windows covered, and strongbacks attached to its payload bay doors -- awaits entry into the Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB, after rolling from Orbiter Processing Facility-2, or OPF-2. Discovery will be stored inside the VAB for approximately one month while shuttle Atlantis undergoes processing in OPF-2 following its final mission, STS-135. Discovery flew its 39th and final mission, STS-133, in February and March 2011, and currently is being prepared for public display at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia. For more information about Discovery's Transition and Retirement, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/launch/discovery_rss_collection_archive_1.html. Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin KSC-2011-5550

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 -- its nose encased in protective plastic, its cockpit windows covered, and strongbacks attached to its payload bay doo... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the transporter holds the container with the second shipment of hardware space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission to NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. The container holds the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier, or SLIC, and the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier, or ORUC. Another payload carrier, the Flight Support System, has already been delivered, and the Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment carrier will be delivered in late July. The carriers will be prepared for the integration of telescope science instruments, both internal and external replacement components, as well as the flight support equipment to be used by the astronauts during the Hubble servicing mission, targeted for launch Oct. 8. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd2039

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the transporter holds the container with the second shipment of hardware space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 miss... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Firing Room at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Steven Hoyle, left, and Russ Brucker, center, receive a VIP award for their efforts associated with the STS-125 mission and NASA's Hubble Space Telescope. Hoyle is the payload test operations manager with NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center; Brucker is the Atlantis payload project manager with United Space Alliance. A crew of seven launched today on space shuttle Atlantis to service Hubble. Liftoff was on time at 2:01 p.m. EDT. Atlantis' 11-day flight will include five spacewalks to refurbish and upgrade the telescope with state-of-the-art science instruments that will expand Hubble's capabilities and extend its operational lifespan through at least 2014. The payload includes a Wide Field Camera 3, fine guidance sensor and the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-3074

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Firing Room at NASA's Kennedy Space Cent...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Firing Room at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Steven Hoyle, left, and Russ Brucker, center, receive a VIP award for their efforts associated with the STS-125 mission and N... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians oversee the lifting of the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph, or COS, from a stand. The COS will be moved to and placed on the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier that will be installed in space shuttle Atlantis' payload bay. The COS is part of the payload for the Hubble servicing mission, STS-125, targeted to launch in mid-May. Installing the COS during the mission will effectively restore spectroscopy to Hubble’s scientific arsenal, and at the same time provide the telescope with unique capabilities. COS is designed to study the large-scale structure of the universe and how galaxies, stars and planets formed and evolved. It will help determine how elements needed for life such as carbon and iron first formed and how their abundances have increased over the lifetime of the universe. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-2162

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians oversee the lifting of the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph, or COS, from a stand. The COS w... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, overhead cranes move the U.S. Lab Destiny from its test and integration stand to the Launch Package Integration Stand (LPIS) for a weight and center of gravity determination. Destiny is the payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-98 to the International Space Station. The lab is fitted with five system racks and will already have experiments installed inside for the flight. The launch is scheduled for January 2001 KSC00pp1933

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, overhead cranes move the U.S. Lab Destiny from its test and integration stand to the Launch Package Integration Stand (LPIS) for a weight... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Tracy Caldwell practices driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency exit training. Seen in the back are Mission Specialist Alvin Drew, Pilot Charlie Hobaugh and educator astronaut and Mission Specialist Barbara R. Morgan. They and other crew members are at Kennedy for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT activities include the M-113 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. NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1894

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Tracy Caldw...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Tracy Caldwell practices driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency exit training. Seen in the back are Mission Specialist Alvin ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A technician prepares the Project Morpheus prototype lander for a second free flight test at the north end of the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Testing of the prototype lander was performed at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston in preparation for tethered and free flight testing at Kennedy. Project Morpheus integrates NASA’s automated landing and hazard avoidance technology, or ALHAT, with an engine that runs on liquid oxygen and methane, or green propellants, into a fully-operational lander that could deliver cargo to other planetary surfaces. The landing facility will provide the lander with the kind of field necessary for realistic testing, complete with rocks, craters and hazards to avoid. Morpheus’ ALHAT payload allows it to navigate to clear landing sites amidst rocks, craters and other hazards during its descent. Project Morpheus is being managed under the Advanced Exploration Systems, or AES, Division in NASA’s Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate. The efforts in AES pioneer new approaches for rapidly developing prototype systems, demonstrating key capabilities and validating operational concepts for future human missions beyond Earth orbit. For more information on Project Morpheus, visit http://morpheuslander.jsc.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2013-4368

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A technician prepares the Project Morpheus pro...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A technician prepares the Project Morpheus prototype lander for a second free flight test at the north end of the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Test... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a technician works to replace the protective cover on the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier, or SLIC. The cover was removed to clean the carrier of contaminants found Sept. 17 during preparations to deliver NASA's Hubble Space Telescope servicing payload to Launch Pad 39A. Cleanliness is extremely important for space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-125 mission to Hubble, and the teams have insured that the SLIC is ready to fly. The SLIC, which holds battery module assemblies, is built with state-of-the-art, lightweight, composite materials - carbon fiber with a cyanate ester resin and a titanium metal matrix composite. These composites have greater strength-to-mass ratios than the metals typically used in spacecraft design. The carrier is one of four being transferred to Launch Pad 39A. At the pad, the carriers will be loaded into Atlantis’ payload bay. Launch of Atlantis is targeted for Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd2655

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a technician works to replace the protective cover on the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier, or SLIC. ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery rolls along the towway from Orbiter Processing Facility-2, or OPF-2, to the Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB. Railings, called strongbacks, are installed along Discovery's payload bay doors to assist with opening and closing of the doors when the shuttle's hydraulic system is not operational and support the doors while they are open. Discovery will be stored inside the VAB for approximately one month while shuttle Atlantis undergoes processing in OPF-2 following its final mission, STS-135. Discovery flew its 39th and final mission, STS-133, in February and March 2011, and currently is being prepared for public display at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia. For more information about Discovery's Transition and Retirement, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/launch/discovery_rss_collection_archive_1.html. Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin KSC-2011-5540

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 rolls along the towway from Orbiter Processing Facility-2, or OPF-2, to the Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB. Railing... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-107 Mission Specialist Ilan Ramon, with the Israeli Space Agency, looks at an experiment in the SHI Research Double Module (SHI/RDM), part of the payload on the mission. The crew is taking part in Crew Equipment Interface Test activities, which include equipment and payload familiarization. A research mission, STS-107 also will carry the Fast Reaction Experiments Enabling Science, Technology, Applications and Research (FREESTAR) that incorporates eight high priority secondary attached shuttle experiments. STS-107 is scheduled to launch July 19, 2002 KSC-02pd0945

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-107 Mission Specialist Ilan Ramon, wi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-107 Mission Specialist Ilan Ramon, with the Israeli Space Agency, looks at an experiment in the SHI Research Double Module (SHI/RDM), part of the payload on the mission. The cr... More

During pre-pack and fit check, STS-92 Commander Brian Duffy tests his launch and entry suit for comfort and ease while sitting. This mission will be Duffy’s fourth Shuttle flight. He and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT provides emergency egress training, simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payload. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT from Launch Pad 39A 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-00pp1342

During pre-pack and fit check, STS-92 Commander Brian Duffy tests his ...

During pre-pack and fit check, STS-92 Commander Brian Duffy tests his launch and entry suit for comfort and ease while sitting. This mission will be Duffy’s fourth Shuttle flight. He and the rest of the crew ar... More

In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers help guide the overhead crane as it lifts the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Donatello out of the shipping container. In the SSPF, Donatello will undergo processing by the payload test team, including integrated electrical tests with other Station elements in the SSPF, leak tests, electrical and software compatibility tests with the Space Shuttle (using the Cargo Integrated Test equipment) and an Interface Verification Test once the module is installed in the Space Shuttle’s payload bay at the launch pad. The most significant mechanical task to be performed on Donatello in the SSPF is the installation and outfitting of the racks for carrying the various experiments and cargo. Donatello will be launched on mission STS-130, currently planned for September 2004 KSC-01pp0246

In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers help guide the overh...

In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers help guide the overhead crane as it lifts the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Donatello out of the shipping container. In the SSPF, Donatello will undergo proces... More

During pre-pack and fit check in the Operations and Checkout Building, STS-92 Mission Specialist Koichi Wakata of Japan gets an adjustment on his launch and entry suit. This mission is Wakata’s second Shuttle flight. He and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT provides emergency egress training, simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payload. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT from Launch Pad 39A 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-00pp1341

During pre-pack and fit check in the Operations and Checkout Building,...

During pre-pack and fit check in the Operations and Checkout Building, STS-92 Mission Specialist Koichi Wakata of Japan gets an adjustment on his launch and entry suit. This mission is Wakata’s second Shuttle f... More

During suitup in the Operations and Checkout Building, STS-92 Mission Specialist Koichi Wakata of Japan signals thumbs up for a second launch attempt. During the 11-day mission to the International Space Station, four extravehicular activities (EVAs), or spacewalks, are planned for construction. The payload includes the Integrated Truss Structure Z-1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The Z-1 truss is the first of 10 that will become the backbone of the Space Station, eventually stretching the length of a football field. PMA-3 will provide a Shuttle docking port for solar array installation on the sixth Station flight and Lab installation on the seventh Station flight.; Launch is scheduled for 7:17 p.m. EDT. Landing is expected Oct. 22 at 2:10 p.m. EDT KSC-00pp1539

During suitup in the Operations and Checkout Building, STS-92 Mission ...

During suitup in the Operations and Checkout Building, STS-92 Mission Specialist Koichi Wakata of Japan signals thumbs up for a second launch attempt. During the 11-day mission to the International Space Statio... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The first free-flight test of NASA's Morpheus prototype lander was conducted at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 98-second test began at 10:02 p.m. EDT with the Morpheus lander launching from the ground over a flame trench and ascending more than 800 feet. The vehicle, with its autonomous landing and hazard avoidance technology, or ALHAT sensors, surveyed the hazard field to determine safe landing sites. Morpheus then flew forward and downward covering approximately 1,300 feet while performing a 78-foot divert to simulate a hazard avoidance maneuver. The lander then descended and landed on a dedicated pad inside the test field. Project Morpheus tests NASA’s ALHAT and an engine that runs on liquid oxygen and methane, which are green propellants. These new capabilities could be used in future efforts to deliver cargo to planetary surfaces. The landing facility provides the lander with the kind of field necessary for realistic testing, complete with rocks, craters and hazards to avoid. Morpheus’ ALHAT payload allows it to navigate to clear landing sites amidst rocks, craters and other hazards during its descent. Project Morpheus is being managed under the Advanced Exploration Systems, or AES, Division in NASA’s Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate. The efforts in AES pioneer new approaches for rapidly developing prototype systems, demonstrating key capabilities and validating operational concepts for future human missions beyond Earth orbit. For more information on Project Morpheus, visit http://morpheuslander.jsc.nasa.gov/. Photo credit: NASA/Mike Chambers KSC-2014-2707

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The first free-flight test of NASA's Morpheus ...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The first free-flight test of NASA's Morpheus prototype lander was conducted at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 98-second test began at 10:02 ... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-134 Commander Mark Kelly, left, and Pilot Gregory H. Johnson check out tools and equipment they'll be using in space. The six STS-134 astronauts are at Kennedy participating in the Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT), which gives them an opportunity for hands-on training and familiarization of the payload they'll be delivering to the International Space Station. Space shuttle Endeavour is targeted to launch on the STS-134 mission Feb. 27, 2011. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-2010-5552

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-134 Commander Mark Kelly, left, and Pilot Gregory H. Johnson check out tools and equipment they'll be ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Columbia emblazons the pre-dawn clouds as it soars into the sky on its 27th flight into space on mission STS-109. Liftoff occurred at 6:22:02:08 a.m. EST(11:22:02:08 GMT). The goal of the mission is the maintenance and upgrade of the Hubble Space Telescope, to be carried out in five spacewalks. The crew of STS-109 comprises Commander Scott D. Altman, Pilot Duane G. Carey, Payload Commander John M. Grunsfeld, and Mission Specialists Nancy Jane Currie, Richard M. Linnehan, James H. Newman and Michael J. Massimino. After an 11-day mission, Columbia is expected to return to Kennedy March 12 about 4:35 a.m. EST (09:35 GMT). [Photo by Anita Barrett] KSC-02pd0217

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Columbia emblazons the pr...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Columbia emblazons the pre-dawn clouds as it soars into the sky on its 27th flight into space on mission STS-109. Liftoff occurred at 6:22:02:08 a.m. EST(11:22:02:0... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building, the Joint Airlock Module is placed in a horizontal position to be transferred to the payload canister behind it. Then it will be moved to the Space Station Processing Facility where it will continue to undergo preflight processing for the STS-104 mission scheduled for launch aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis May 17, 2001. The Joint Airlock Module is the gateway from which crew members aboard the International Space Station will enter and exit the 470-ton orbiting research facility KSC00pp1491

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building, the Joint Airlock Module is placed in a horizontal position to be transferred to the payload canister behind it. Then it will be moved to t... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the high bay of the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a worker from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center documents the installation of a pallet support strut on the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier for the Hubble Space Telescope. The Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier, or SLIC, is one of four carriers supporting hardware for space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission to service the telescope. SLIC is built with state-of-the-art, lightweight, composite materials - carbon fiber with a cyanate ester resin and a titanium metal matrix composite. These composites have greater strength-to-mass ratios than the metals typically used in spacecraft design. The Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier, or ORUC, and the Flight Support System, or FSS, have also arrived at Kennedy. The Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment carrier will be delivered in early August. The carriers will be prepared for the integration of telescope science instruments, both internal and external replacement components, as well as the flight support equipment to be used by the astronauts during the Hubble servicing mission, targeted for launch Oct. 8. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd2095

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the high bay of the Payload Hazardous Servi...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the high bay of the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a worker from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center documents the installation of a pallet suppor... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A canister, carrying the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module (MPLM) for space shuttle Atlantis' STS-135 mission to the International Space Station, arrives at Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The canister will be lifted to the payload changeout room. The payload ground-handling mechanism then will be used to transfer Raffaello out of the canister into Atlantis' payload bay. Next, the rotating service structure that protects the shuttle from the elements and provides access will be rotated back into place. Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandra Magnus and Rex Walheim are targeted to lift off on Atlantis July 8, taking with them the MPLM packed with supplies, logistics and spare parts to the station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2011-4453

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A canister, carrying the Raffaello multi-purpo...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A canister, carrying the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module (MPLM) for space shuttle Atlantis' STS-135 mission to the International Space Station, arrives at Launch Pad 39A at NASA... More

Photograph of a Rocket Payload Collar

Photograph of a Rocket Payload Collar

SCOUT (Solid Controlled Orbital Utility Test) Project Office Files Public domain photograph - NASA, space exploration, work of US government, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a strongback crane is lowered toward the EXPRESS Logistics Carrier to lift it to a stand. The carrier is part of the payload on space shuttle Atlantis, which will deliver to the International Space Station components including 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. STS-129 is targeted to launch Nov. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-2009-2247

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a strongback crane is lowered toward the EXPRESS Logistics Carrier to lift it to a stand. The carri... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the plasma contactor unit, or PCU, that will be installed on the Express Logistics Carrier, or ELC. The PCU is used to disperse electrical charge build-ups on the International Space Station. The carrier is part of the STS-129 payload on space shuttle Atlantis, which will deliver to the International Space 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. STS-129 is targeted to launch Nov. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-5127

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the plasma contactor unit, or PCU, that will be installed on the Express Logistics Carri... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A second shipping container of major flight hardware for space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission to NASA's Hubble Space Telescope is placed in the airlock at the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The container holds the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier and the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier. In the facility, preparations will begin for its targeted October launch. The payload carriers will be prepared for the integration of telescope science instruments, both internal and external replacement components, as well as the flight support equipment to be used by the astronauts during the servicing mission. The three payload carriers or pallets are the Flight Support System, the SLIC and the ORUC. At the end of July, a fourth and final carrier, the Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment carrier will join the others in the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility where the Hubble payload is being prepared for launch. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-08pd2024

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A second shipping container of major flight h...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A second shipping container of major flight hardware for space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission to NASA's Hubble Space Telescope is placed in the airlock at the Payload Hazardous Servi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- As the sky grows lighter, , the payload canister (left) with the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 inside is slowly lifted up the side of the Rotating Service Structure to the Payload Changeout Room. There the Z1 truss will be removed and later transferred to Space Shuttle Discovery’s payload bay. The Z1 truss is the first of 10 that will become the backbone of the International Space Station, eventually stretching the length of a football field. Along with its companion payload, the third Pressurized Mating Adapter, the Z1 is scheduled to be launched aboard Discovery Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT KSC00pp1355

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- As the sky grows lighter, , the payload...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- As the sky grows lighter, , the payload canister (left) with the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 inside is slowly lifted up the side of the Rotating Service Structure to the Payload... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, technicians check the sensors on the Soft Capture Mechanism (SCM), part of the Soft Capture and Rendezvous System, or SCRS, after mating of the SCM to the Flight Support System, or FSS, carrier. The SCRS will enable the future rendezvous, capture and safe disposal of NASA's Hubble Space Telescope by either a crewed or robotic mission. The ring-like device attaches to Hubble’s aft bulkhead. The SCRS greatly increases the current shuttle capture interfaces on Hubble, therefore significantly reducing the rendezvous and capture design complexities associated with the disposal mission. The FSS will join the Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment, or MULE, carrier, the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier and the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier as payload on space shuttle Atlantis's STS-125 mission. The payload is scheduled to go to Launch Pad 39A in mid-September to be installed into Atlantis' payload bay. Atlantis is targeted to launch Oct. 8 at 1:34 a.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd2445

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Payload Hazardous Servicing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, technicians check the sensors on the Soft Capture Mechanism (SCM), part of the Soft Capture and Rendezvous Syst... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In space shuttle Discovery's payload bay, STS-120 crew members get a close look at the equipment and payloads. Seen here are Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson and Paolo Nespoli, who represents the European Space Agency. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. The STS-120 mission will deliver the U.S. Node 2 module, named Harmony, aboard space shuttle Discovery to the International Space Station. Launch of Discovery on mission STS-120 is targeted for Oct. 23 at 11:38 a.m. EDT on a 14-day mission. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd2756

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In space shuttle Discovery's payload bay...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In space shuttle Discovery's payload bay, STS-120 crew members get a close look at the equipment and payloads. Seen here are Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson and Paolo Nespoli... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –NASA's Project Morpheus prototype lander performed a free-flight test from a launch pad at the north end of the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 97-second test began at 2:30 p.m. EDT with the Morpheus lander launching from the ground over a flame trench and ascending more than 800 feet. The vehicle, with its recently installed autonomous landing and hazard avoidance technology, or ALHAT, sensors surveyed the hazard field to determine safe landing sites. Morpheus then flew forward and downward covering approximately 1,300 feet while performing a 78-foot divert to simulate a hazard avoidance maneuver. The lander descended and landed on a dedicated pad inside the ALHAT hazard field. Project Morpheus tests NASA’s ALHAT and an engine that runs on liquid oxygen and methane, which are green propellants. These new capabilities could be used in future efforts to deliver cargo to planetary surfaces. The landing facility provides the lander with the kind of field necessary for realistic testing, complete with rocks, craters and hazards to avoid. Morpheus’ ALHAT payload allows it to navigate to clear landing sites amidst rocks, craters and other hazards during its descent. Project Morpheus is being managed under the Advanced Exploration Systems, or AES, Division in NASA’s Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate. The efforts in AES pioneer new approaches for rapidly developing prototype systems, demonstrating key capabilities and validating operational concepts for future human missions beyond Earth orbit. For more information on Project Morpheus, visit http://morpheuslander.jsc.nasa.gov/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2014-2665

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –NASA's Project Morpheus prototype lander perform...

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –NASA's Project Morpheus prototype lander performed a free-flight test from a launch pad at the north end of the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 97-s... More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-134 crew checks out the heat shield tiles that protect space shuttles during re-entry. From left, are Mission Specialists Greg Chamitoff and Andrew Feustel, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, Commander Mark Kelly and Mission Specialist Roberto Vittori of the European Space Agency. The six STS-134 astronauts are at Kennedy participating in the Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT), which gives them an opportunity for hands-on training with the tools and equipment they'll use in space and familiarization of the payload they'll be delivering to the International Space Station. Space shuttle Endeavour is targeted to launch on the STS-134 mission Feb. 27, 2011. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-2010-5539

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility-2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-134 crew checks out the heat shield tiles that protect space shuttles during re-entry. From left, ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers prepare the Japanese Experiment Module, called Kibo, to be weighed. Also known as the JEM-PM, the module is the primary payload for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission, which is targeted for launch to the International Space Station on April 24. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Cain KSC-08pd0142

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers prepare the Japanese Experiment Module, called Kibo, to be weighed. Also known as the JEM-PM, the ... More

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