truss system

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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   On Launch Pad 39B, the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay is seen before the closing of the bay doors.  The cargo is the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station. Scheduled to launch Aug. 27, Atlantis will fly on mission STS-115 with a crew of six to deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd1915

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, the cargo in Space S...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay is seen before the closing of the bay doors. The cargo is the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the In... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner adjusts his helmet.  Tanner is making his fourth flight on a shuttle. He and other crew members are checking their launch suits and apparatus before the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1933

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner adjusts his helmet. Tanner is making his fourth flight on a shuttle. He and other crew members are checking their launch suits and apparat... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  During suit check, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean signals confidence about the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.  MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, will be making his second flight on a shuttle.   Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1924

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During suit check, STS-115 Mission Speci...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During suit check, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean signals confidence about the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27. MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space A... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper (center) shaking hands with Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach as Mission Specialist Joe Tanner looks on. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2017

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. See... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. Seen here, left to right, are Mission Specialists Steven MacLean and Joseph Tanner, Commander Brent Jett, Pilot Christopher Ferguson, and Mission Specialists Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Daniel Burbank. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2012

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  Workers on Launch Pad 39B watch closely as Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors begin to close.  Inside the payload bay is the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1916

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B watch closely ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B watch closely as Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors begin to close. Inside the payload bay is the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 tru... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett settles in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2027

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett settles in t...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett settles in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumm... More

STS113-711-060 - STS-113 - Television Camera mounted on the ITS,image taken STS-113

STS113-711-060 - STS-113 - Television Camera mounted on the ITS,image ...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of a Television Camera mounted on the International Space Station (ISS) Integrated Truss System (ITS). Image was taken during STS-113. Subject Te... More

STS113-704-067 - STS-113 - FWD view of the ISS taken during STS-113

STS113-704-067 - STS-113 - FWD view of the ISS taken during STS-113

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Forward view of the International Space Station (ISS) taken during STS-113. Visible is Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA) 2, the Destiny U.S. Laboratory, ... More

STS113-704-051 - STS-113 - View of the ISS taken during STS-113

STS113-704-051 - STS-113 - View of the ISS taken during STS-113

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of the International Space Station (ISS) taken during STS-113. Visible is the Destiny U.S. Laboratory, Quest Airlock (A/L), Pressurized Mating Adap... More

STS113-711-061 - STS-113 - Television Camera mounted on the ITS,image taken STS-113

STS113-711-061 - STS-113 - Television Camera mounted on the ITS,image ...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of a Television Camera mounted on the International Space Station (ISS) Integrated Truss System (ITS). Image was taken during STS-113. Subject Te... More

STS113-704-059 - STS-113 - FWD view of the ISS taken during STS-113

STS113-704-059 - STS-113 - FWD view of the ISS taken during STS-113

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Forward view of the International Space Station (ISS) taken during STS-113. Visible is the Destiny U.S. Laboratory, Quest Airlock (A/L), Pressurized Mat... More

STS113-704-052 - STS-113 - View of the ISS taken during STS-113

STS113-704-052 - STS-113 - View of the ISS taken during STS-113

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of the International Space Station (ISS) taken during STS-113. Visible is the Destiny U.S. Laboratory, Quest Airlock (A/L), Pressurized Mating Adap... More

STS113-711-059 - STS-113 - Television Camera mounted on the ITS, image taken STS-113

STS113-711-059 - STS-113 - Television Camera mounted on the ITS, image...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of a Television Camera mounted on the International Space Station (ISS) Integrated Truss System (ITS). Image was taken during STS-113. Subject Te... More

STS113-344-024 - STS-113 - Moon rise, U.S. Lab, and truss section seen during STS-113

STS113-344-024 - STS-113 - Moon rise, U.S. Lab, and truss section seen...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: The Moon rising above the Earth's limb is seen from a vantage point looking across a panel on the Destiny U.S. Laboratory during mission STS-113. In th... More

STS113-704-058 - STS-113 - FWD view of the ISS taken during STS-113

STS113-704-058 - STS-113 - FWD view of the ISS taken during STS-113

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Forward view of the International Space Station (ISS) taken during STS-113. Visible is the Destiny U.S. Laboratory, Quest Airlock (A/L), Pressurized Mat... More

STS113-344-022 - STS-113 - Moon rise, U.S. Lab, and truss section seen during STS-113

STS113-344-022 - STS-113 - Moon rise, U.S. Lab, and truss section seen...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: The Moon rising above the Earth's limb is seen from a vantage point looking across a panel on the Destiny U.S. Laboratory during mission STS-113. In th... More

STS113-704-040 - STS-113 - FWD view of the ISS taken during STS-113

STS113-704-040 - STS-113 - FWD view of the ISS taken during STS-113

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Forward view of the International Space Station (ISS) taken during STS-113. Visible is the Integrated Truss System (ITS), P6 Truss, External Thermal Con... More

STS113-344-023 - STS-113 - Moon rise, U.S. Lab, and truss section seen during STS-113

STS113-344-023 - STS-113 - Moon rise, U.S. Lab, and truss section seen...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: The Moon rising above the Earth's limb is seen from a vantage point looking across a panel on the Destiny U.S. Laboratory during mission STS-113. In th... More

S120E006469 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior to docking.

S120E006469 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of the Destiny laboratory module, Node 1/ Unity, the FGB Zarya of the International Space Station (ISS). Also visible is the Integrated Truss Syste... More

S120E006475 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior to docking.

S120E006475 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA) 2 on the end of the Destiny laboratory module of the International Space Station (ISS). Also visible is the... More

S120E006470 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior to docking.

S120E006470 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA) 2 attached to the Destiny laboratory module. Also visible is the Node 1 /Unity module with PMA 3 on the na... More

S120E006474 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior to docking.

S120E006474 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of the Destiny laboratory module, and the Node 1/ Unity of the International Space Station (ISS). Also visible is the Integrated Truss System, the... More

S120E006462 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior to docking.

S120E006462 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of the Destiny laboratory module, Node 1/ Unity, the FGB Zarya and the Zvezda Service module of the International Space Station (ISS). Also visibl... More

S120E006476 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior to docking.

S120E006476 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of the Destiny laboratory and the Node 1 module of the International Space Station (ISS). Also visible is part of the Integrated Truss System, the ... More

S120E006461 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior to docking.

S120E006461 - STS-120 - Flyaround view taken by the STS-120 crew prior...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: View of the Pressurized Mating Adapter (PMA) 2 at the end of the Destiny laboratory module, the Node 1/ Unity and the FGB Zarya module of the Internati... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the Shuttle Training Aircraft taxis onto the runway.  In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot Christopher Ferguson will practice landing the shuttle.  STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1913

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle L...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the Shuttle Training Aircraft taxis onto the runway. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett an... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  Seen here are (left to right) Pilot Christopher Ferguson and Mission Specialist Steven MacLean being greeted by KSC Associate Director Jim Hattaway and Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1895

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at N...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. Seen here are (lef... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is seen at the controls of the Shuttle Training Aircraft which he will fly to practice landing the shuttle.  STA practice is part of launch preparations.  The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1911

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is seen at ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is seen at the controls of the Shuttle Training Aircraft which he will fly to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparation... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. Seen here, left to right, are Mission Specialists Steven MacLean and Daniel Burbank, Pilot Christopher Ferguson, Commander Brent Jett, and Mission Specialists Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Joseph Tanner. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1900

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   On Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors are being closed for launch.  Inside is seen the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station. Scheduled to launch Aug. 27, Atlantis will fly on mission STS-115 with a crew of six to deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd1904

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlant...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors are being closed for launch. Inside is seen the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the In... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -    STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is helped donning his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle.  STA practice is part of launch preparations.   The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1905

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is helped...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is helped donning his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch prepar... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   On Launch Pad 39B, a worker checks the port payload bay door as it closes around the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay. The cargo is the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station.   Scheduled to launch Aug. 27, Atlantis will fly on mission STS-115 with a crew of six to deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd1917

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, a worker checks the ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, a worker checks the port payload bay door as it closes around the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay. The cargo is the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  Workers on Launch Pad 39B examine the bottom of the starboard payload bay door as it closes around the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay. The cargo is the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station.Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1918

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B examine the bo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B examine the bottom of the starboard payload bay door as it closes around the cargo in Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay. The cargo is the 17-and-a-half-... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   Workers on Launch Pad 39B get ready to close Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay after closeout of the orbiter's aft compartments and installation of the aft doors. Inside is seen the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station.  Prior to the closing, technicians finished performing the aft confidence test, which involves powering up and testing all of the aft systems, such as the main propulsion system circuits. Atlantis will fly on mission STS-115 with a crew of six to deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd1902

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B get ready to ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B get ready to close Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay after closeout of the orbiter's aft compartments and installation of the aft doors. Inside is seen... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   Under cloudy skies at sunset, T-38 jet aircraft are lined up on the NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility where STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot Christopher Ferguson will be climbing aboard the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations.   The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1907

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Under cloudy skies at sunset, T-38 jet ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Under cloudy skies at sunset, T-38 jet aircraft are lined up on the NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility where STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot Christopher F... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  Seen here is Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, who will be making her first flight on the shuttle.  The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1893

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Miss... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   Workers on Launch Pad 39B prepare to close Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay after closeout of the orbiter's aft compartments and installation of the aft doors. Inside is seen the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station.   Prior to the closing, technicians finished performing the aft confidence test, which involves powering up and testing all of the aft systems, such as the main propulsion system circuits. Atlantis will fly on mission STS-115 with a crew of six to deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd1901

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B prepare to cl...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B prepare to close Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay after closeout of the orbiter's aft compartments and installation of the aft doors. Inside is seen t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson settles in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle.  STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1910

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson settl...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson settles in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Commander Brent Jett settles in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle.  STA practice is part of launch preparations.  The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1909

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett settles in ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett settles in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Gr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -    The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  They have paused to talk to the media before heading to crew quarters in the Operations and Checkout Building.  From left are Mission Specialists Steven MacLean, Joseph Tanner and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Commander Brent Jett, Pilot Christopher Ferguson and Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank.  MacLean represents the Canadian Space Agency. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1897

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. They have paused... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  Seen here are (left to right) Mission Specialist Steven MacLean and Pilot Christopher Ferguson being greeted by KSC Associate Director Jim Hattaway and Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1894

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at N...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. Seen here are (lef... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -    On Launch Pad 39B, the payload bay doors on Space Shuttle Atlantis have closed around the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station.   Scheduled to launch Aug. 27, Atlantis will fly on mission STS-115 with a crew of six to deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd1919

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, the payload bay doo...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, the payload bay doors on Space Shuttle Atlantis have closed around the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  Seen here are Commander Brent Jett (left) and  Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank.  Jett will be making his fourth flight on the shuttle and Burbank is second. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1896

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. Seen here are Com... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  On Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors are being closed for launch.  Inside is seen the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1903

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlanti...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors are being closed for launch. Inside is seen the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the Int... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The crew of mission STS-115 has arrived at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  They talk to the media before heading to crew quarters in the Operations and Checkout Building.  At the microphone is Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner.  On the left is Commander Brent Jett; on the right is Pilot Christopher Ferguson.   The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1898

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 has arrived ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 has arrived at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. They talk to t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  Seen here is Mission Specialist Steven MacLean,  who will be making his second flight on the shuttle.  MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency.  The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/Pr truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1891

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Miss... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  One of three T-38 jet aircraft with STS-115 crew members aboard lands at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility.  The crew is arriving to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  Crew members are Commander Brent Jett, Pilot Christopher Ferguson and Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner, Daniel Burbank, Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Steven MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1889

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - One of three T-38 jet aircraft with STS-...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - One of three T-38 jet aircraft with STS-115 crew members aboard lands at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. The crew is arriving to prepare for launch on Aug. 2... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett boards the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle.  STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1908

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle L...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett boards the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -    The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  Seen here is Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank,  who will be making his second flight on the shuttle.   The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1890

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Mis... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -    Workers on Launch Pad 39B watch closely as Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors begin to close.  Inside the payload bay is the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment for the International Space Station. Scheduled to launch Aug. 27, Atlantis will fly on mission STS-115 with a crew of six to deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.  Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-06pd1914

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B watch closel...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers on Launch Pad 39B watch closely as Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors begin to close. Inside the payload bay is the orbiter's cargo, the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -    STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson is helped donning his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle.  STA practice is part of launch preparations.   The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1906

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson is ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson is helped donning his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  Three T-38 jet aircraft with STS-115 crew members aboard approach NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility.  The crew is arriving to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  Crew members are Commander Brent Jett, Pilot Christopher Ferguson and Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner, Daniel Burbank, Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Steven MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1888

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Three T-38 jet aircraft with STS-115 cre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Three T-38 jet aircraft with STS-115 crew members aboard approach NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. The crew is arriving to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to th... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station.  Seen here is Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner,  who will be making his fourth flight on the shuttle.  The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1892

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at N...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Missi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International Space Station. Seen here, left to right, are Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner, Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Steven MacLean (at the microphone), and Commander Brent Jett. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.    Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1899

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for launch on Aug. 27 to the International S... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  During suit check, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean waves in confidence about the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.  MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, will be making his second flight on a shuttle. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1922

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During suit check, STS-115 Mission Speci...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During suit check, STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean waves in confidence about the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27. MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean tests the fit of his helmet before launching on Aug. 27. MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, will be making his second flight on a shuttle.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27 on Space Shuttle Atlantis.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1921

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLea...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean tests the fit of his helmet before launching on Aug. 27. MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, will be making his second flig... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank checks the equipment on the head set in his launch suit.  Burbank is making his second flight on a shuttle. He and other crew members are checking their launch suits and apparatus before the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1929

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burban...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank checks the equipment on the head set in his launch suit. Burbank is making his second flight on a shuttle. He and other crew members are ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank checks the fit of his gloves.  Burbank is making his second flight on a shuttle. He and other crew members are checking their launch suits and apparatus before the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1930

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burban...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank checks the fit of his gloves. Burbank is making his second flight on a shuttle. He and other crew members are checking their launch suits... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean has his launch suit checked for fit before the launch on Aug. 27.  MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, will be making his second flight on a shuttle.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27 on Space Shuttle Atlantis.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1920

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLea...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean has his launch suit checked for fit before the launch on Aug. 27. MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, will be making his s... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner checks the equipment on the head set in his launch suit.  Tanner is making his fourth flight on a shuttle.He and other crew members are checking their launch suits and apparatus before the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1931

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner checks the equipment on the head set in his launch suit. Tanner is making his fourth flight on a shuttle.He and other crew members are che... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner checks the equipment on the head set in his launch suit.  Tanner is making his fourth flight on a shuttle.He and other crew members are checking their launch suits and apparatus before the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1932

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner checks the equipment on the head set in his launch suit. Tanner is making his fourth flight on a shuttle.He and other crew members are che... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper gives one last tug on the strap of her launch suit. Piper is making her first flight on a shuttle.  She and other crew members are checking their launch suits and apparatus before the launch on Aug. 27. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27 on Space Shuttle Atlantis.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1927

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie St...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper gives one last tug on the strap of her launch suit. Piper is making her first flight on a shuttle. She and other crew membe... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank talks with a suit technician during suit check. Burbank will me making his second flight on a shuttle. He and other crew members are checking their launch suits and apparatus before the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1928

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burban...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank talks with a suit technician during suit check. Burbank will me making his second flight on a shuttle. He and other crew members are check... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper checks the equipment on the head set in her launch suit.  Piper is making her first flight on a shuttle. She and other crew members are checking their launch suits and apparatus before the launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1925

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie St...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper checks the equipment on the head set in her launch suit. Piper is making her first flight on a shuttle. She and other crew ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper is all smiles about final preparations for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27.   Piper is making her first flight on a shuttle. She and other crew members are checking the fit of their launch suits.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1923

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie St...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper is all smiles about final preparations for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis on Aug. 27. Piper is making her first flight o... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper waves in confidence about the launch on Aug. 27. Piper is making her first flight on a shuttle.  Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 4:30 p.m. Aug. 27 on Space Shuttle Atlantis.  The crew will deliver and install the P3/P4 segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the International Space Station.  The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays.  When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years.  The mission is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks.   Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1926

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie St...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper waves in confidence about the launch on Aug. 27. Piper is making her first flight on a shuttle. Mission STS-115 is schedule... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank, who will be making his second flight on the shuttle. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2013

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. See... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. Seen here, left to right, are Mission Specialist Steven MacLean of the Canadian Space Agency, Commander Brent Jett (at microphone) and Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner.  Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2019

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, who will be making her first flight on the shuttle. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2014

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. See... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Mission Specialist Steven MacLean, who will be making his second flight on the shuttle. MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency.  Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2020

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 stop to talk to the media after arriving at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Pilot Christopher Ferguson, who will be making his first flight on the shuttle. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2018

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. See... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Mission Specialist Joe Tanner (left) shaking hands with Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2016

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. See... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. Seen here is Pilot Christopher Ferguson (left) shaking hands with Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2015

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NA...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew of mission STS-115 arrives at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to prepare for a second launch attempt on Sept. 6 to the International Space Station. See... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson disembarks from the Shuttle Training Aircraft after a practice session of landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2035

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle La...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson disembarks from the Shuttle Training Aircraft after a practice session of landing the shu... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) taxis into the parking area of KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot Christopher Ferguson practiced landing the shuttle this morning. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2033

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) taxis i...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) taxis into the parking area of KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot Christo... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is dressed in his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2023

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is dressed i...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is dressed in his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson boards the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2026

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle La...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson boards the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is par... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the early morning hours on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the Shuttle Training Aircraft taxis onto the runway. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot Christopher Ferguson are practicing landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2030

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the early morning hours on NASA Kenned...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the early morning hours on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the Shuttle Training Aircraft taxis onto the runway. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-11... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the early morning hours on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the Shuttle Training Aircraft taxis onto the runway. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot Christopher Ferguson are practicing landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2031

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the early morning hours on NASA Kenned...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the early morning hours on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the Shuttle Training Aircraft taxis onto the runway. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-11... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson settles in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2029

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson settle...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson settles in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett studies the controls in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft before a practice session of landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2028

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett studies the ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett studies the controls in the cockpit of the Shuttle Training Aircraft before a practice session of landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch pr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson dons his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2021

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson dons h...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson dons his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett dons his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2022

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett dons his lau...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett dons his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA i... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) is positioned in the parking area of KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot Christopher Ferguson practiced landing the shuttle this morning. The space shuttle's Mate-Demate Device is seen in the background. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2034

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) is posi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) is positioned in the parking area of KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot C... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson is dressed in his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2024

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson is dre...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson is dressed in his launch suit before flying the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparat... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett leaves the Shuttle Training Aircraft after a practice session of landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2036

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle La...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett leaves the Shuttle Training Aircraft after a practice session of landing the shuttle. STA pract... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the Shuttle Training Aircraft takes to the skies. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pilot Christopher Ferguson are practicing landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2032

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle La...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the Shuttle Training Aircraft takes to the skies. In the specially configured aircraft, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett and Pil... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett boards the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of launch preparations. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet that was modified to simulate an orbiter’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. In flight, the STA duplicates the orbiter’s atmospheric descent trajectory from approximately 35,000 feet altitude to landing on a runway. Because the orbiter is unpowered during re-entry and landing, its high-speed glide must be perfectly executed the first time. Mission STS-115 is scheduled to lift off about 12:29 p.m. Sept. 6. Mission managers cancelled Atlantis' first launch campaign due to a lightning strike at the pad and the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto along Florida's east coast. The mission will deliver and install the 17-and-a-half-ton P3/P4 truss segment to the port side of the integrated truss system on the orbital outpost. The truss includes a new set of photovoltaic solar arrays. When unfurled to their full length of 240 feet, the arrays will provide additional power for the station in preparation for the delivery of international science modules over the next two years. STS-115 is expected to last 11 days and includes three scheduled spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd2025

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle La...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-115 Commander Brent Jett boards the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landing the shuttle. STA practice is part of l... More