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Oversikt området rundt Frikirken med Skolegata. I 1924 ble Hamar kommunale gamlehjem satt opp på tomta i forgrunnen.

An image archive for the old Hamar municipality. Most of the archive is repro after borrowing of originals. There are also some photographs that have come in the form of gifts or purchases. The motifs include e More

Muck - nedräkning, A 6. Svenska militära styrkor

Muck - nedräkning, A 6. Public domain photograph, Sweden, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Muck - nedräkning, A 6. Svenska militära styrkor

Muck - nedräkning, A 6. Public domain photograph, Sweden, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery is attached to Launch Pad 39A as the sun rises over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It took the spacecraft about six hours to make the journey, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to the pad. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October. Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2010-4736

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Discovery is attached to Launch Pad 39A as the sun rises over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It took the spacecraft about six hours to make the journey, known as " More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-135 Pilot Doug Hurley pauses for a photo. The space shuttle Atlantis crew arrived at Kennedy at about 5:30 p.m. EDT to participate in a launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training in preparation for the upcoming STS-135 mission. Atlantis and its crew is targeted to lift off on July 8, taking with them the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space Station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-4609

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-135 Pilot Doug Hurley pauses for a photo. The space shuttle Atlantis crew arrived at Kennedy at about 5:30 More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure on Launch Pad 39A, STS-92 Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy and Commander Brian Duffy learn more about the emergency egress training they and the rest of the crew have received. The training is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities that also include a simulated countdown. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC-00pp1382

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure on Launch Pad 39A, STS-92 Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy and Commander Brian Duffy learn more about the emergency egress training they More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Rick Mastracchio gets help with the fit of his launch and entry suit during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT activities include the M-113 training, payload familiarization, emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-118 payload aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour includes the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1917

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Rick Mastracchio gets help with the fit of his launch and entry suit during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-101 Mission Specialist Susan J. Helms adjusts her helmet after climbing into her seat inside Space Shuttle Atlantis for a simulated launch countdown. The countdown is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that also include emergency egress training and familiarization with the payload. Other crew members taking part are Commander James D. Halsell Jr., Pilot Scott J. "Doc" Horowitz and Mission Specialists Mary Ellen Weber, James Voss, Jeffrey N. Williams, and Yury Usachev of Russia. During their mission to the International Space Station, the STS-101 crew will be delivering logistics and supplies, plus preparing the Station for the arrival of the Zvezda Service Module, expected to be launched by Russia in July 2000. Also, the crew will conduct one space walk to perform maintenance on the Space Station. This will be the third assembly flight for the Space Station. STS-101 is scheduled to launch April 24 at 4:15 p.m. from Launch Pad 39A KSC00pp0473

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-101 Mission Specialist Susan J. Helms adjusts her helmet after climbing into her seat inside Space Shuttle Atlantis for a simulated launch countdown. The countdown is part of T More

STS-92 Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy is happy to arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility after a flight from Houston. She and the rest of the crew are at KSC to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency egress training from the orbiter and pad, and a simulated countdown. The fifth mission to the International Space Station, STS-92 will carry the Integrated Truss Structure Z1, the first of the planned 10 trusses on the Space Station, and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The Z1 will allow the first U.S. solar arrays on a future flight to be temporarily installed on Unity for early power. PMA-3 will provide a Shuttle docking port for the solar array installation on the sixth ISS flight and Lab installation on the seventh ISS flight. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 from launch Pad 39A. It will be the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC00pp1304

STS-92 Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy is happy to arrive at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility after a flight from Houston. She and the rest of the crew are at KSC to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, the STS-121 crew gathers at a microphone for the media. Seen here at center is Pilot Mark Kelly. Other crew members are Mission Commander Steven Lindsey and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at the space center to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-06pd1042

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, the STS-121 crew gathers at a microphone for the media. Seen here at center is Pilot Mark Kelly. Other c More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seated in the cockpit of the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, STS-120 Commander Pamela Melroy is eager to begin landing practice on NASA's Shuttle Landing Facility runway. A modified Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet, the STA simulates 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. Melroy and other crew members are at Kennedy Space Center to take part in the terminal countdown demonstration test, which also includes a simulated launch countdown. Mission STS-120 is targeted for Oct. 23. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd2691

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Seated in the cockpit of the shuttle training aircraft, or STA, STS-120 Commander Pamela Melroy is eager to begin landing practice on NASA's Shuttle Landing Facility runway. A mod More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-129 crew talk to the media. From left are Commander Charles O. Hobaugh; Mission Specialists Mike Foreman and Leland Melvin; Pilot Barry E. Wilmore, at microphone; and Mission Specialists Robert L. Satcher Jr. and Randy Bresnik. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-129 mission are at Kennedy for training related to their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. Launch of Atlantis on its STS-129 mission to the International Space Station is targeted for Nov. 16. For information on the STS-129 mission objectives and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-5578

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-129 crew talk to the media. From left are Commander Charles O. Hobaugh; Mission Special More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission pause from their M113 training for a group portrait. From left are Commander George Zamka; Pilot Terry Virts; and Mission Specialists Robert Behnken, Kathryn Hire, Stephen Robinson and Nicholas Patrick. An M113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission are at Kennedy for training related to their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. The primary payload on STS-130 is the International Space Station's Node 3, Tranquility, a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to one end of Tranquility is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top. Endeavour's launch is targeted for Feb. 7. For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts130/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-1307

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission pause from their M113 training for a group portrait. From left are Commander Geor More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On a cloudy and overcast day on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers monitor the progress of the rotating service structure (RSS) as it rolls away from space shuttle Atlantis. The RSS provides weather protection and access to the shuttle while it awaits liftoff. RSS "rollback" marks a major milestone in Atlantis' STS-135 mission countdown. Atlantis and its crew of four; Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim, are scheduled to lift off at 11:26 a.m. EDT on July 8 to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space Station. Atlantis also will fly the Robotic Refueling Mission experiment that will investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites in orbit. In addition, Atlantis will return with a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2011-5131

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On a cloudy and overcast day on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers monitor the progress of the rotating service structure (RSS) as it rolls away from space More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Launch Pad 39A area, Mission STS-117 crew members receive instruction on emergency egress using the slidewire basket system during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. Here, Mission Specialists Steven Swanson (left) and Danny Olivas (right) practice exiting from the slidewire basket. The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training, and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0494

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Launch Pad 39A area, Mission STS-117 crew members receive instruction on emergency egress using the slidewire basket system during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test act More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the rotating service structure has been retracted from space shuttle Atlantis as the countdown progresses toward launch on Nov. 16 at 2:28 p.m. EST of the STS-129 mission. The movable structure, which provides weather protection and access for technicians to work on the shuttle, began being retracted at 5:20 p.m. EST and was in the park position by 5:56 p.m. STS-129 crew members are Commander Charles O. Hobaugh; Pilot Barry E. Wilmore; and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Randy Bresnik, Mike Foreman and Robert L. Satcher Jr. On the STS-129 mission to the International Space Station, the crew will deliver two spare gyroscopes, two nitrogen tank assemblies, two pump modules, an ammonia tank assembly and a spare latching end effector for the station's robotic arm. Atlantis will return to Earth a station crew member, Nicole Stott, who has spent more than two months aboard the orbiting laboratory. STS-129 is slated to be the final space shuttle Expedition crew rotation flight. For information on the STS-129 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-2009-6299

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the rotating service structure has been retracted from space shuttle Atlantis as the countdown progresses toward launch on Nov More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-134 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff signs the space shuttle wall tribute in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Kennedy employees who have supported the Space Shuttle Program throughout the last 30 years have been signing the wall as a tribute to the program. Endeavour's six crew members are at Kennedy for the launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training. Endeavour is targeted to launch April 19 at 7:48 p.m. EDT on its final spaceflight mission. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2621

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-134 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff signs the space shuttle wall tribute in the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Kennedy employees who have supp More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-134 Commander Mark Kelly gets behind the controls of a Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) to perform touch-and-go landings on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STAs are Gulfstream II business jets that are modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of standard training before space shuttle Endeavour's STS-134 launch to the International Space Station. Endeavour's six crew members are at Kennedy for the launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training. Targeted to launch April 19 at 7:48 p.m. EDT, they will deliver the Express Logistics Carrier-3, Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer-2 (AMS), a high-pressure gas tank, additional spare parts for the Dextre robotic helper and micrometeoroid debris shields to the space station. This will be the final spaceflight for Endeavour. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2521

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-134 Commander Mark Kelly gets behind the controls of a Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) to perform touch-and-go landings on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Sharing a humorous moment on Launch Pad 39A during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities are (left) Commander Rick Husband and (right) Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon (the first Israeli astronaut). The TCDT also includes a simulated launch countdown. STS-107 is a mission devoted to research and will include more than 80 experiments that will study Earth and space science, advanced technology development, and astronaut health and safety. Launch is planned for Jan. 16, 2003, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. EST aboard Space Shuttle Columbia. . KSC-02pd1979

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Sharing a humorous moment on Launch Pad 39A during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities are (left) Commander Rick Husband and (right) Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon (the More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Space Shuttle Endeavour sits on Launch Pad 39A waiting for the Rotating Service Structure to be rolled back into its protective position. The launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour on mission STS-99 was delayed when NASA managers decided to replace the Enhanced Master Events Controller that became suspect during the Jan. 31 launch countdown. The next scheduled launch is NET Feb. 9 KSC-00pp0142

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Space Shuttle Endeavour sits on Launch Pad 39A waiting for the Rotating Service Structure to be rolled back into its protective position. The launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour on More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the 195-foot level of the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-125 crew members talk about using the slidewire baskets for emergency escape from the shuttle and pad. In the foreground are Mission Specialists John Grunsfeld, Mike Massimino and Andrew Feustel. Standing above them are (left to right) Mission Specialists Michael Good and Megan McArthur and Commander Scott Altman. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities before launching on space shuttle Atlantis’ mission to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. Atlantis is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2863

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the 195-foot level of the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-125 crew members talk about using the slidewire baskets for emergenc More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Under gray skies, the Rotating Service Structure rolls back into its protective position around Space Shuttle Endeavour on Launch Pad 39A. The launch of Endeavour on mission STS-99 was delayed when NASA managers decided to replace the Enhanced Master Events Controller that became suspect during the Jan. 31 launch countdown. The next scheduled launch is NET Feb. 9 KSC00pp0144

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Under gray skies, the Rotating Service Structure rolls back into its protective position around Space Shuttle Endeavour on Launch Pad 39A. The launch of Endeavour on mission STS-9 More

During pre-pack and fit check in the Operations and Checkout Building, STS-92 Mission Specialist Koichi Wakata of Japan gets an adjustment on his launch and entry suit. This mission is Wakata’s second Shuttle flight. He and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT provides emergency egress training, simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payload. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT from Launch Pad 39A on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC-00pp1341

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-123 Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman works at putting on his gloves while suiting up for the launch dress rehearsal, culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Space shuttle Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd0539

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-123 Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman works at putting on his gloves while suiting up for the launch dress rehearsal, culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration tes More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Tracy Caldwell practices driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency exit training. Seen in the back are Mission Specialist Alvin Drew, Pilot Charlie Hobaugh and educator astronaut and Mission Specialist Barbara R. Morgan. They and other crew members are at Kennedy for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT activities include the M-113 training, payload familiarization, emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-118 payload aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour includes the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug.7. NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1894

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – During suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialists Sandra Magnus, Donald Pettit and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper pause for a photo. The crew members are having their launch-and-entry suits fit-checked prior to heading for Launch Pad 39A. The crew will take part in a simulated launch countdown at the pad. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit training and the simulated countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3424

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – During suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialists Sandra Magnus, Donald Pettit and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Pipe More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew responds to questions from the media. From left are Commander Steve Frick (with the microphone); Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Rex Walheim, Hans Schlegel, Stanley Love and Leopold Eyharts. Schlegel and Eyharts are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The STS-122 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3372

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing on Launch Pad 39A, the space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 crew responds to questions from the media. From left are Commander Steve Frick (with the mic More

During pre-pack and fit check, STS-92 Commander Brian Duffy tests his launch and entry suit for comfort and ease while sitting. This mission will be Duffy’s fourth Shuttle flight. He and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT provides emergency egress training, simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payload. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT from Launch Pad 39A on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC-00pp1342

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrive at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Here, Commander Mark Kelly is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. Behind Leinbach is Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff. TCDT is a rehearsal for launch that includes practicing emergency procedures, handling on-orbit equipment, and simulating a launch countdown. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd1149

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus (with microphone) answers a question from the media. The other crew members with her are (from left) Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Eric Boe and Mission Specialists Steve Bowen, Shane Kimbrough, Donald Pettit and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit procedures and a simulated launch countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3400

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus (with microphone) answers a question from the media. The other crew members with h More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, launch team members monitor the countdown to the launch of space shuttle Atlantis on its STS-135 mission to the International Space Station. Seen here is NASA Test Director Steve Payne. Atlantis with its crew of four; Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley, Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim, lifted off at 11:29 a.m. EDT on July 8, 2011 to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts for the station. Atlantis also will fly the Robotic Refueling Mission experiment that will investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites in orbit. In addition, Atlantis will return with a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-5292

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, launch team members monitor the countdown to the launch of space shuttle Atlantis on its STS-135 More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During emergency egress from Launch Pad 39A, STS-120 Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson (foreground) and Doug Wheelock settle in the slidewire basket. Wilson reaches for the release lever. The basket can carry them to a safe landing site below, if needed. The activity is part of the prelaunch terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT at NASA's Kennedy Space Center provides astronauts and ground crews an opportunity to participate in various launch preparation activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. The STS-120 mission will deliver the U.S. Node 2 module, named Harmony, aboard space shuttle Discovery to the International Space Station. Discovery is targeted to launch on its 14-day mission at 11:38 a.m. EDT on Oct. 23. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd2801

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During emergency egress from Launch Pad 39A, STS-120 Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson (foreground) and Doug Wheelock settle in the slidewire basket. Wilson reaches for the rel More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-134 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff listens to Commander Mark Kelly address the media on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. While at Kennedy, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will participate in a launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training in preparation for the upcoming STS-134 mission. Endeavour and its six STS-134 crew members will deliver the Express Logistics Carrier-3, Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer-2 (AMS), a high-pressure gas tank, additional spare parts for the Dextre robotic helper and micrometeoroid debris shields to the International Space Station. This will be the final spaceflight for Endeavour. Launch is targeted for April 19 at 7:48 p.m. EDT. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2514

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - Astronaut E. Michael Fincke is ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. Fincke is a backup crew member for the International Space Station Expedition 4 crew, who are flying on Space Shuttle Endeavour as part of mission STS-108. Both the mission crew and Expedition 4 crews are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT includes emergency exit from the launch pad and a simulated launch countdown. The 11-day mission will also carry the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello, filled with supplies and equipment. STS-108 is scheduled to launch Nov. 29 KSC-01PP1658

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - Astronaut E. Michael Fincke is ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. Fincke is a backup crew member for the International Space Station Expedition 4 crew, wh More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Mission Specialist Sandy Magnus checks the fit of her launch and landing suit. The STS-135 crew is at Kennedy to participate in a launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training in preparation for the upcoming STS-135 mission. Atlantis and its crew are targeted to lift off July 8, taking with them the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space Station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-4646

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Mission Specialist Sandy Magnus checks the fit of her launch and landing suit. The STS-135 crew is at K More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-120 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for the pre-launch terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Here, during emergency egress training, crew members practice climbing into the slidewire baskets that can carry them safely to a landing site away from the shuttle. In the basket are, from left, Mission Specialists Doug Wheelock and Scott Parazynski and Pilot George Zamka. Watching them are, from left, Commander Pamela Melroy and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson and Daniel Tani, with camera. After the mission, Tani will remain aboard the International Space Station and return with the STS-122 crew, targeted to launch Dec. 6. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. The STS-120 mission will deliver the U.S. Node 2 module, named Harmony, aboard space shuttle Discovery to the International Space Station. Launch of Discovery on mission STS-120 is targeted for Oct. 23 at 11:38 a.m. EDT on a 14-day mission. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd2738

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-120 crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for the pre-launch terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Here, during emergency egress training, crew members practice More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-112 Pilot Pamela Melroy takes a break from training at Pad 39B during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include a simulated launch countdown. Launch of STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled for Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment, to be attached to the central truss segment, S0, and the Crew and Equipment Translation Aid (CETA) Cart A. The CETA is the first of two human-powered carts that will ride along the ISS railway, providing mobile work platforms for future spacewalking astronauts. KSC-02pd1345

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-112 Pilot Pamela Melroy takes a break from training at Pad 39B during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include a simulated launch countdown. Launch of S More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide sits in his seat aboard space shuttle Discovery following the simulated launch countdown, part of the launch dress rehearsal known as the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including a simulated launch countdown, equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd1256

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide sits in his seat aboard space shuttle Discovery following the simulated launch countdown, par More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-112 crew listen to further instructions about emergency egress from the Shuttle. Standing, left to right, are Mission Specialist Piers Sellers, Commander Jeffrey Ashby, Pilot Pamela Melroy, Mission Specialists Fyodor Yurchikhin (with the Russian Space Agency), David Wolf and Sandra Magnus. The training is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include a simulated launch countdown. Mission STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment, to be attached to the central truss segment, S0, and the Crew and Equipment Translation Aid (CETA) Cart A. The CETA is the first of two human-powered carts that will ride along the ISS railway, providing mobile work platforms for future spacewalking astronauts. KSC-02pd1340

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-112 crew listen to further instructions about emergency egress from the Shuttle. Standing, left to right, are Mission Specialist Piers Sellers, Commander Jeffrey Ashby, P More

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-134 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff gives a thumbs-up as he takes his seat aboard space shuttle Endeavour during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Part of TCDT includes practicing the final hours of a real launch day when astronauts put on their launch-and-entry suits, ride to the pad in the Astrovan and strap into the shuttle. Endeavour's six crew members are targeted to launch April 19 at 7:48 p.m. EDT. They will deliver the Express Logistics Carrier-3, Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer-2 (AMS), a high-pressure gas tank, additional spare parts for the Dextre robotic helper and micrometeoroid debris shields to the International Space Station. This will be the final spaceflight for Endeavour. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2693

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-134 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff gives a thumbs-up as he takes his seat aboard space shuttle Endeavour during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) on Launch Pad 39A a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - These laptop computers in Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center reveal data being relayed from the avian radars recently set up on Launch Pad 39B. On the left is an associated camera image. On the right is the radar image. When birds, especially vultures, are near the shuttle during a launch, impact on a critical area is possible and could cause catastrophic damage to the vehicle. Already proven affective for aviation where threats posed by bird strikes have been a problem, the avian radar, known as Aircraft Birdstrike Avoidance Radar, provides horizontal and vertical scanning and can monitor either launch pad for movement of vultures around them. If data relayed from the avian radar indicates large birds are dangerously close to the vehicle, controllers could hold the countdown. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd1341

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - These laptop computers in Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center reveal data being relayed from the avian radars recently set up on Launch Pad 39B. On the left is an associat More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Steve Swanson is helped by the Closeout Crew to put on his harness. The White Room provides access into space shuttle Discovery. Swanson and other crew members will conduct a simulated launch countdown as part of the prelaunch preparation known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. The TCDT also includes equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Discovery is targeted to launch on the STS-119 mission Feb. 12. During the 14-day mission, the crew will install the S6 truss segment and solar arrays to the starboard side of the International Space Station, completing the station's truss, or backbone. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2009-1270

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-119 Mission Specialist Steve Swanson is helped by the Closeout Crew to put on his harness. The White R More

During pre-pack and fit check in the Operations and Checkout Building, STS-92 Mission Specialist William S. McArthur Jr. uses a laptop computer while garbed in his full launch and entry suit. McArthur and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT provides emergency egress training, simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payload. This mission will be McArthur’s third Shuttle flight. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT from Launch Pad 39A on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC00pp1339

During pre-pack and fit check in the Operations and Checkout Building, STS-92 Mission Specialist William S. McArthur Jr. uses a laptop computer while garbed in his full launch and entry suit. McArthur and the r More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Bathed in bright xenon lights, space shuttle Discovery makes its nighttime trek, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. It will take the shuttle, attached to its external fuel tank, twin solid rocket boosters and mobile launcher platform, about six hours to complete the move atop a crawler-transporter. Rollout sets the stage for Discovery's STS-133 crew to practice countdown and launch procedures during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test in mid-October. Targeted to liftoff Nov. 1, Discovery will take the Permanent Multipurpose Module (PMM) packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2 (R2) to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2010-4709

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Bathed in bright xenon lights, space shuttle Discovery makes its nighttime trek, known as "rollout," from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center i More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew gets instructions about using the slidewire baskets for emergency egress from the space shuttle on the pad. Seen here are Mission Specialists Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Daniel Burbank, Pilot Chris Ferguson, Mission Specialist Steven MacLean and Commander Brent Jett. MacLean is with the Canadian Space Agency. Not seen is Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner. The mission crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis, scheduled to take place in a window that opens Aug. 27. During their 11-day mission to the International Space Station, the STS-115 crew will continue construction of the station and attach the payload elements, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-06pd1776

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew gets instructions about using the slidewire baskets for emergency egress from the space shuttle on the pad. Seen here are Mission Specialists Heidemarie Stefanys More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Expedition 5 crew member Peggy Whitson undergoes a suit check as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities at KSC. The TCDT includes emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. Expedition 5 will travel to the International Space Station on mission STS-111 as the replacement crew for Expedition 4, who will return to Earth aboard Endeavour. Known as Utilization Flight -2, the mission includes attaching a Canadian-built mobile base system to the International Space Station that will enable the Canadarm2 robotic arm to move along a railway on the Station's truss to build and maintain the outpost. The crew will also replace a faulty wrist/roll joint on the Canadarm2 as well as unload almost three tons of experiments and supplies from the Italian-built Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo. Launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour on mission STS-111 is scheduled for May 30, 2002 KSC-02pd0675

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Expedition 5 crew member Peggy Whitson undergoes a suit check as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities at KSC. The TCDT includes emergency egress training at the More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Back at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-124 Commander Mark Kelly happily crosses the parking area after the successful space shuttle landing practice aboard NASA's Shuttle Training Aircraft, or STA. 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. The crew for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Providing astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, TCDT includes equipment familiarization and emergency training. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd1162

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Back at the NASA Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-124 Commander Mark Kelly happily crosses the parking area after the successful space shuttle landing practice aboard More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Mission Specialist Kathryn Hire takes her crew and instructor for a ride in an M113 armored personnel carrier during driving practice. Left of Hire is the instructor, Battalion Chief David Seymour. An M113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission are at Kennedy for training related to their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. The primary payload on STS-130 is the International Space Station's Node 3, Tranquility, a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to one end of Tranquility is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top. Endeavour's launch is targeted for Feb. 7. For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts130/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-1298

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Mission Specialist Kathryn Hire takes her crew and instructor for a ride in an M113 armored personnel carrier during driving practice. L More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-135 Mission Specialist Rex Walheim pauses for a photo. The space shuttle Atlantis crew members arrived at Kennedy at about 5:30 p.m. EDT to participate in a launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training in preparation for the upcoming STS-135 mission. Atlantis and its crew is targeted to lift off July 8, taking with them the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies, logistics and spare parts to the International Space Station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-4607

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-135 Mission Specialist Rex Walheim pauses for a photo. The space shuttle Atlantis crew members arrived at K More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-107 Payload Commander Michael Anderson completes suit check prior to Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include a simulated launch countdown at the pad. STS-107 is a mission devoted to research and will include more than 80 experiments that will study Earth and space science, advanced technology development, and astronaut health and safety. Launch is planned for Jan. 16, 2003, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. EST aboard Space Shuttle Columbia. . KSC-02pd1962

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-107 Payload Commander Michael Anderson completes suit check prior to Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include a simulated launch countdown at the pad. ST More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-108 Mission Specialist Daniel M. Tani is ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. He and other crew members are taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency exit from the launch pad and a simulated launch countdown. STS-108 is a Utilization Flight that will carry the replacement Expedition 4 crew to the International Space Station, as well as the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello, filled with supplies and equipment. The l1-day mission is scheduled for launch Nov. 29 on Space Shuttle Endeavour KSC-01PP1653

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-108 Mission Specialist Daniel M. Tani is ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. He and other crew members are taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonst More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- A Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) performs touch-and-go landings as the sun sets over the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey and Pilot Eric Boe are flying two Gulfstream II business jets that are modified to mimic the shuttle's handling during the final phase of landing. Practice landings are part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2010-5130

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After arriving at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a T-38 jet training aircraft, STS-119 Commander Lee Archambault (left) is greeted by Pete Nickolenko, chief of the NASA Launch and Landing Division. Between them is Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. The crew flew to Kennedy to take part in terminal countdown demonstration test activities, which include equipment familiarization and emergency exit training and culminate in a simulated launch countdown. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-1175

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After arriving at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on a T-38 jet training aircraft, STS-119 Commander Lee Archambault (left) is greeted by Pete Nickolenko, chief of the NASA Launc More

With Capt. George Hoggard, trainer with the KSC Fire Department, riding on top, Mission Specialist Koichi Wakata of Japan practices driving the M-113, part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Riding in the back (on the left) are other crew members, waiting their turn to drive. The tracked vehicle could be used by the crew in the event of an emergency at the pad during which the crew must make a quick exit from the area. The TCDT also provides simulated countdown exercises and opportunities to inspect the mission payloads in the orbiter’s payload bay. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:30 p.m. EDT on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC-00pp1320

With Capt. George Hoggard, trainer with the KSC Fire Department, riding on top, Mission Specialist Koichi Wakata of Japan practices driving the M-113, part of emergency egress training during Terminal Countdown More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A, Mission Specialist Barbara R. Morgan adjusts the collar of her launch and entry suit before she enters Space Shuttle Endeavour. Morgan, the teacher-turned-astronaut, and the rest of the crew are taking part in a simulated launch countdown, the culmination of terminal countdown demonstration test activities. The White Room is situated at the end of the orbiter access arm and provides entry into the orbiter. TCDT activities also include M-113 training, payload familiarization and emergency egress training at the pad. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-07pd1993

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A, Mission Specialist Barbara R. Morgan adjusts the collar of her launch and entry suit before she enters Space Shuttle Endeavour. Morgan, the t More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-126 Mission Specialist Steve Bowen fits his helmet during suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Bowen and other crew members are having their launch-and-entry suits fit-checked prior to heading for Launch Pad 39A. The crew will take part in a simulated launch countdown at the pad. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit training and the simulated countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3422

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-126 Mission Specialist Steve Bowen fits his helmet during suit-up in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Bowen and other crew members are More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson takes his crew and instructor for a ride in an M113 armored personnel carrier during driving practice. Left of Robinson is the instructor, Battalion Chief David Seymour. An M113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 mission are at Kennedy for training related to their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. The primary payload on STS-130 is the International Space Station's Node 3, Tranquility, a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to one end of Tranquility is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top. Endeavour's launch is targeted for Feb. 7. For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts130/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-1300

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-130 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson takes his crew and instructor for a ride in an M113 armored personnel carrier during driving practic More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Mission Specialist Leland Melvin talks to the media at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility following his arrival to participate in three days of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd3328

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Mission Specialist Leland Melvin talks to the media at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility following his arrival to participate in three More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick puts on his helmet, part of his launch and entry suit, in astronaut crew quarters. The STS-122 crew is preparing for a simulated launch countdown aboard Atlantis, part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The TCDT is a dress rehearsal for launch and also provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3411

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Commander Steve Frick puts on his helmet, part of his launch and entry suit, in astronaut crew quarters. The STS-122 crew is preparing for a simul More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With the help of the Closeout Crew in the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Commander Eileen Collins adjusts her launch suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The crew is taking part in a full dress rehearsal for launch, including countdown and culminating in main engine cutoff. The rehearsal is the final part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that the crew has been involved in for three days. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31. KSC-05pp0997

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With the help of the Closeout Crew in the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Commander Eileen Collins adjusts her launch suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The crew i More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Expedition 6 crew member Nikolai Budarin stands ready for a practice drive in an M-113 armored personnel carrier during emergency egress training at the pad, one of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities in preparation for launch. The TCDT also includes a simulated launch countdown. The Expedition 6 crew will travel on Space Shuttle Endeavour to the International Space Station to replace Expedition 5, returning to Earth after 4 months. The primary payloads on mission STS-113 are the first port truss segment, P1, and the Crew and Equipment Translation Aid (CETA) Cart B. Once delivered, the P1 truss will remain stowed until flight 12A.1 in 2003 when it will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, on the Space Station. Launch is scheduled for Nov. 10, 2002. KSC-02pd1560

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Expedition 6 crew member Nikolai Budarin stands ready for a practice drive in an M-113 armored personnel carrier during emergency egress training at the pad, one of the Terminal Co More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew members are suiting up for their simulated launch countdown. Shown here is Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner. The mission crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch on Space Shuttle Atlantis, scheduled to take place in a window that opens Aug. 27. The TCDT has included emergency egress training as well as the simulation. During their 11-day mission to the International Space Station, the STS-115 crew will continue construction of the station and attach the payload elements, the Port 3/4 truss segment with its two large solar arrays. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston KSC-06pd1812

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew members are suiting up for their simulated launch countdown. Shown here is Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner. The mission crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown D More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 crew members get a close look at the payloads installed in Space Shuttle Endeavour. Seen in the foreground are Mission Specialists Dave Williams (center), who represents the Canadian Space Agency, and Tracy Caldwell (right). In the background is Mission Specialist Rick Mastracchio. The STS-118 crew has been at Kennedy for terminal countdown demonstration test activities that also include M-113 training, emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd2029

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 crew members get a close look at the payloads installed in Space Shuttle Endeavour. Seen in the foreground are Mission Specialists Dave Williams (center), who represents More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Mission Specialist Leland Melvin tries on his launch and entry suit, preparing for launch. The fitting is part of terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, activities the crew is undertaking at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the Columbus module to the International Space Station. The European Space Agency's largest single contribution to the station, Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony. The laboratory will expand the research facilities aboard the station, providing crew members and scientists from around the world the ability to conduct a variety of experiments in the physical, materials and life sciences. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd3358

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Mission Specialist Leland Melvin tries on his launch and entry suit, preparing for launch. The fitting is part of terminal countdown demonstration t More

STS-99 Mission Specialist Mamoru Mohri of Japan and his wife, Akiko, wave before their departure from Patrick Air Force Base and return to Houston. With the postponement of the launch of STS-99 on Jan. 31, the crew have an opportunity for more training and time with their families. During the launch countdown, Endeavour's enhanced master events controller (E-MEC) No. 2 failed a standard preflight test. Launch was postponed and Shuttle managers decided to replace the E-MEC located in the orbiter's aft compartment. Launch controllers will be in a position to begin the STS-99 countdown the morning of Feb. 6 and ready to support a launch midto late next week pending availability of the Eastern Range. Known as the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, it will chart a new course to produce unrivaled 3-D images of the Earth's surface, using two antennae and a 200-foot-long section of space station-derived mast protruding from the payload bay. The result could be close to 1 trillion measurements of the Earth's topography. Besides contributing to the production of better maps, these measurements could lead to improved water drainage modeling, more realistic flight simulators, better locations for cell phone towers, and enhanced navigation safety KSC00pp0148

STS-99 Mission Specialist Mamoru Mohri of Japan and his wife, Akiko, wave before their departure from Patrick Air Force Base and return to Houston. With the postponement of the launch of STS-99 on Jan. 31, the More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-129 Mission Specialist Robert L. Satcher Jr., dressed in his launch-and-entry suit, is strapped into his seat aboard space shuttle Atlantis. The six astronauts for space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-129 mission are participating in their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. Additional training associated with the test was done last month, but the simulated countdown was postponed because of a scheduling conflict with the launch of NASA’s Ares I-X test rocket. Launch of Atlantis on its STS-129 mission to the International Space Station is set for Nov. 16. On STS-129, the crew will deliver to the station two spare gyroscopes, two nitrogen tank assemblies, two pump modules, an ammonia tank assembly and a spare latching end effector for the station's robotic arm. For information on the STS-129 crew and mission objectives, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-6068

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-129 Mission Specialist Robert L. Satcher Jr., dressed in his launch-and-entry suit, is strapped into his seat aboard space More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39, STS-123 Mission Specialist Robert L. Behnken takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of his training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The STS-123 crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. Endeavour's seven astronauts arrived at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility in their T-38 training aircraft between 10:45 and 10:58 a.m. EST. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd0470

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39, STS-123 Mission Specialist Robert L. Behnken takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose f More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Like a roman candle shooting through the blue sky, the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121 kicks off the fireworks for the U.S. holiday in its third launch attempt in four days. Liftoff was on-time at 2:38 p.m. EDT. The countdown clock on the grounds of the NASA News Center shows 17 seconds into the launch. Media crowd the banks of the turn basin to capture the sight of the launch. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew of seven will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. Landing is scheduled for July 16 or 17 at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton KSC-06pd1413

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Like a roman candle shooting through the blue sky, the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121 kicks off the fireworks for the U.S. holiday in its third launch attem More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Prior to their departure, the STS-110 crew pauses for the media at the Shuttle Landing Facility. Standing left to right are Mission Specialists Jerry Ross, Steven Smith and Lee Morin; Commander Michael Bloomfield; Pilot Stephen Frick; and Mission Specialists Rex Walheim and Ellen Ochoa. The crew was at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities that included the payload familiarization and a simulated launch countdown. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day STS-110 mission will feature Space Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet KSC-02PD0338

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Prior to their departure, the STS-110 crew pauses for the media at the Shuttle Landing Facility. Standing left to right are Mission Specialists Jerry Ross, Steven Smith and Lee M More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the STS-133 crew receive instruction by the catch nets for the slidewire baskets at the base of the pad as part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) emergency exit training. From left are Mission Specialist Tim Kopra, Pilot Eric Boe, Commander Steve Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Alvin Drew, Nicole Stott and Michael Barratt. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5166

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialist Shane Kimbrough gets help with his suit before entering space shuttle Endeavour. He and other crew members will take part in a simulated launch countdown. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit training and the simulated countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3433

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialist Shane Kimbrough gets help with his suit before entering space shuttle Endeavour. More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Pilot Gregory C. Johnson is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd2816

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Pilot Gregory C. Johnson is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, left, and Michael Barratt are strapped into their seats on space shuttle Discovery. Next, they will practice escaping the shuttle, in preparation for an unlikely emergency at the pad on launch day. The simulated launch countdown and emergency exit training are part of a week-long Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5204

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Mission Specialists Nicole Stott, left, and Michael Barratt are strapped into the More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown the STS-135 crew pauses for a photo before climbing aboard the waiting Astrovan at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. As part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), the crew members are driven to Kennedy's Launch Pad 39A and then strapped into space shuttle Atlantis to practice the steps that will be taken on launch day. From left are Mission Specialists Rex Walheim and Sandy Magnus, Pilot Doug Hurley and Commander Chris Ferguson. Atlantis and its crew are targeted to lift off July 8, taking with them the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space Station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-4797

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- During a simulated launch countdown the STS-135 crew pauses for a photo before climbing aboard the waiting Astrovan at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. As part of the Terminal Cou More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Pilot Eric Boe waits to finish his suit-up. He and other crew members will take part in a simulated launch countdown after entering space shuttle Endeavour. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, which includes equipment familiarization, emergency exit training and the simulated countdown. On the STS-126 mission, space shuttle Endeavour's crew will deliver equipment and supplies to the International Space Station in preparation for expansion from a three- to six-person resident crew aboard the complex. The mission also will include four spacewalks to service the station’s Solar Alpha Rotary Joints. Endeavour is targeted to launch Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder KSC-08pd3430

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Pilot Eric Boe waits to finish his suit-up. He and other crew members will take part in a simulated More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew arrives at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a preparation for the launch March 15 to the International Space Station. NASA Launch Director Mike Leinbach greets Mission Specialist Steven Swanson at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The TCDT includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0457

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-117 crew arrives at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a preparation for the launch March 15 to the International More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Expedition 6 crew member Nikolai Budarin relaxes during fit check of his launch and entry suit, part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. He and the rest of the crew are preparing for the mission aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour, which is scheduled to launch Nov. 10. The TCDT includes emergency egress training and a launch countdown. The Expedition 6 crew will travel on Space Shuttle Endeavour to the International Space Station to replace Expedition 5, returning to Earth after 4 months. The primary payloads on mission STS-113 are the first port truss segment, P1, and the Crew and Equipment Translation Aid (CETA) Cart B. Once delivered, the P1 truss will remain stowed until flight 12A.1 in 2003 when it will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, on the Space Station. Launch is scheduled for Nov. 10, 2002. KSC-02pd1566

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Expedition 6 crew member Nikolai Budarin relaxes during fit check of his launch and entry suit, part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. He and the rest of the cre More

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

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

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, launch team members monitor the countdown to the launch of space shuttle Atlantis on its STS-135 mission to the International Space Station. Above the space shuttle countdown clock are five orbiter tributes on display. The tributes feature major accomplishments and significant achievements made by each shuttle, as well as mission patches and processing milestones. Atlantis with its crew of four; Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley, Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim, lifted off at 11:29 a.m. EDT on July 8, 2011 to deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts for the station. Atlantis also will fly the Robotic Refueling Mission experiment that will investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites in orbit. In addition, Atlantis will return with a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-5278

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Firing Room 4 of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, launch team members monitor the countdown to the launch of space shuttle Atlantis on its STS-135 More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey talks to media at Launch Pad 39A, where space shuttle Discovery is poised for launch next month. The six-member STS-133 crew is at Kennedy for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), which provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training at the launch pad. Discovery and its crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5148

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-133 Commander Steve Lindsey talks to media at Launch Pad 39A, where space shuttle Discovery is poised for launch next month. The six-member More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-134 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff, left, and Commander Mark Kelly take a break from training on the M113 armored personnel carrier at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. An M113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency exit from the pad is needed and every shuttle crew is trained on driving the vehicle before launch. Endeavour's six crew members are at Kennedy for the launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training. Targeted to launch April 19 at 7:48 p.m. EDT, they will deliver the Express Logistics Carrier-3, Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer-2 (AMS), a high-pressure gas tank, additional spare parts for the Dextre robotic helper and micrometeoroid debris shields to the space station. This will be the final spaceflight for Endeavour. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts134/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-2552

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-134 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff, left, and Commander Mark Kelly take a break from training on the M113 armored personnel carrier at NA More

An STS-102 crew member reaches for the release lever for the slidewire basket, used for emergency egress from the orbiter and pad. The crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. On the horizon in the background can be seen the Vehicle Assembly Building. STS-102 is the eighth construction flight to the International Space Station, with Space Shuttle Discovery carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo. In addition, the Expedition Two crew will be on the mission, to replace Expedition One, who will return to Earth with Discovery. Launch on mission STS-102 is scheduled for March 8 KSC01pp0340

An STS-102 crew member reaches for the release lever for the slidewire basket, used for emergency egress from the orbiter and pad. The crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which More

The STS-92 crew exits the Operations and Checkout Building on their way to the Astrovan and Launch Pad 39A for a simulated countdown. Walking left to right are (foreground) Mission Specialists Koichi Wakata of Japan, Peter J.K. “Jeff” Wisoff and Leroy Chiao; and Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy. Behind them are Mission Specialists Michael E. Lopez-Alegria and William S. McArthur Jr.; and Commander Brian Duffy. The crew is taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities that provide emergency egress training, opportunities to inspect the mission payload, and the simulated countdown. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC-00pp1360

The STS-92 crew exits the Operations and Checkout Building on their way to the Astrovan and Launch Pad 39A for a simulated countdown. Walking left to right are (foreground) Mission Specialists Koichi Wakata of More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The shuttle training aircraft, or STA, moves toward the runway on NASA's Shuttle Landing Facility. In the cockpit are STS-120 Commander Pamela Melroy and Pilot George Zamka, who will begin landing practice on the runway. A modified Grumman American Aviation-built Gulf Stream II jet, the STA simulates 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. Melroy and other crew members are at Kennedy Space Center to take part in the terminal countdown demonstration test, which also includes a simulated launch countdown. Mission STS-120 is targeted for Oct. 23. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd2693

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The shuttle training aircraft, or STA, moves toward the runway on NASA's Shuttle Landing Facility. In the cockpit are STS-120 Commander Pamela Melroy and Pilot George Zamka, who More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Mission Specialist Steven Smith relaxes during suit fit, which is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight to provide flight crews an opportunity to participate in simulated launch countdown activities. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day mission will feature Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet KSC-02pd0296

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Mission Specialist Steven Smith relaxes during suit fit, which is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shut More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-107 Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon, the first Israeli astronaut, participates in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of Shuttle launch preparations. STS-107 is a mission devoted to research and will include more than 80 experiments that will study Earth and space science, advanced technology development, and astronaut health and safety. Launch is planned for Jan. 16, 2003, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. EST aboard Space Shuttle Columbia. KSC-02pd1926

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-107 Payload Specialist Ilan Ramon, the first Israeli astronaut, participates in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of Shuttle launch preparation More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket area of Launch Pad 39A, the STS-92 crew poses for a group photograph after a question and answer session with the media. Standing left to right are Commander Brian Duffy, Pilot Pamela Ann Melroy and Mission Specialists Leroy Chiao, William S. McArthur Jr. (with microphone), Peter J.K. “Jeff” Wisoff, Michael E. Lopez-Alegria and Koichi Wakata of Japan. The crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities that provide emergency egress training, opportunities to inspect the mission payload, and take part in a simulated countdown. The slidewire basket area is a landing site for the crew if they have to use the slidewire baskets to exit the orbiter on the pad in an emergency. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program KSC00pp1367

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket area of Launch Pad 39A, the STS-92 crew poses for a group photograph after a question and answer session with the media. Standing left to right are Commande More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-129 Mission Specialist Randy Bresnik prepares to enter space shuttle Atlantis with the help of the closeout crew in the White Room. The six astronauts for space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-129 mission are participating in their launch dress rehearsal, the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. Additional training associated with the test was done last month, but the simulated countdown was postponed because of a scheduling conflict with the launch of NASA’s Ares I-X test rocket. Launch of Atlantis on its STS-129 mission to the International Space Station is set for Nov. 16. On STS-129, the crew will deliver to the station two spare gyroscopes, two nitrogen tank assemblies, two pump modules, an ammonia tank assembly and a spare latching end effector for the station's robotic arm. For information on the STS-129 crew and mission objectives, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts129/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2009-6065

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-129 Mission Specialist Randy Bresnik prepares to enter space shuttle Atlantis with the help of the closeout crew in the Wh More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 crew put on their launch-and-entry suits before heading to the Astrovan for the ride to Launch Pad 39A. The crew is participating in a dress rehearsal for their upcoming launch, known as the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. Making his second spaceflight on STS-130 is Mission Specialist Robert Behnken, seen here. The primary payload for the STS-130 mission is the International Space Station's Tranquility node, a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to one end of Tranquility is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top. The cupola resembles a circular bay window and will provide a vastly improved view of the station's exterior. The multi-directional view will allow the crew to monitor spacewalks and docking operations, as well as provide a spectacular view of Earth and other celestial objects. The module was built in Turin, Italy, by Thales Alenia Space for the European Space Agency. Launch of STS-130 is targeted for Feb. 7. For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts130/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-1354

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Dave Williams, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, gets ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency exit training. Behind him is Mission Specialist Barbara R. Morgan. They and other crew members are at Kennedy for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT activities include the M-113 training, payload familiarization, emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-118 payload aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour includes the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug.7. NASA/George Shelton KSC-07pd1895

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Dave Williams, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, gets ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency exit tr More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crew members of space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 mission go for a ride in an M-113 armored personnel carrier with Battalion Chief David Seymour. An M-113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed, and training on the vehicle is part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT). TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team an opportunity to participate in various simulated activities, including equipment familiarization and a launch countdown. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the Permanent Multipurpose Module, packed with supplies and critical spare parts, as well as Robonaut 2, the dexterous humanoid astronaut helper, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:40 p.m. For more information on the STS-133 mission, visit www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts133/. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2010-5109

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crew members of space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 mission go for a ride in an M-113 armored personnel carrier with Battalion Chief David Se More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the white room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 Mission Specialist Sunita Williams is helped with her gear before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The mission crew is taking part in a simulated launch countdown, part of the terminal countdown demonstration test that includes prelaunch preparations. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller KSC-06pd2602

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the white room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 Mission Specialist Sunita Williams is helped with her gear before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The mission crew is taking part More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - STS-112 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus gets help donning her boots during suit check, part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT also includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission. Magnus will serve as one of two operators of the Canadarm2 robotic arm for S1 truss installation and during three scheduled spacewalks. STS-112 is her first Shuttle flight. KSC-02pd1320

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - STS-112 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus gets help donning her boots during suit check, part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT also includes emergency More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-135 crew members arrived aboard their T-38 jets at about 5:30 p.m. EDT to participate in a launch countdown dress rehearsal called the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) and related training in preparation for the upcoming STS-135 mission. Commander Chris Ferguson, Pilot Doug Hurley and Mission Specialists Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim are targeted to lift off July 8, taking with them the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts to the International Space Station. The STS-135 mission also will fly a system to investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites and return a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/shuttlemissions/sts135/index.html. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2011-4612

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the STS-135 crew members arrived aboard their T-38 jets at about 5:30 p.m. EDT to participate in a launch coun More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-128 Pilot Kevin Ford walks away from the Shuttle Training Aircraft, or STA, after completing shuttle landing practice. The practice is in preparation for launch of space shuttle Discovery's STS-128 mission in late August to the International Space Station. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulfstream II jet that was modified to simulate a shuttle’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. The STS-128 crew is at Kennedy for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes emergency exit training and equipment familiarization, as well as a simulated launch countdown. Discovery will deliver 33,000 pounds of equipment to the station, including science and storage racks, a freezer to store research samples, a new sleeping compartment and the COLBERT treadmill. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-4483

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-128 Pilot Kevin Ford walks away from the Shuttle Training Aircraft, or STA, after completing shuttle landing More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, members of the STS-117 crew are instructed in the operation of an M-113 armored personnel carrier by the astronaut rescue team. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd0477

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, members of the STS-117 crew are instructed in the operation of an M-113 armored personnel carrier by the astronaut rescue team. The astronauts on the STS-117 More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As seen on Google Maps, Firing Room 4 inside the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center was one of the four control rooms used by NASA and contractor launch teams to oversee a space shuttle countdown. This firing room was the most advanced of the control rooms used for shuttle missions and was the primary firing room for the shuttle's final series of launches before retirement. It is furnished in a more contemporary style with wood cabinets and other features, although it retains many of the computer systems the shuttle counted on to operate safely. Specialized operators worked at consoles tailored to keep track of the status of shuttle systems while the spacecraft was processed in the Orbiter Processing Facility, being stacked inside the Vehicle Assembly Building and standing at the launch pad before liftoff. The firing rooms, including 3, were also used during NASA's Apollo Program. Google precisely mapped the space center and some of its historical facilities for the company's map page. The work allows Internet users to see inside buildings at Kennedy as they were used during the space shuttle era. Photo credit: Google/Wendy Wang KSC-2013-3235

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As seen on Google Maps, Firing Room 4 inside the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center was one of the four control rooms used by NASA and contractor launch teams to oversee More

JSC2010-E-046777 (5 April 2010) --- Astronaut Rick Sturckow, spacecraft communicator (CAPCOM) for the STS-131 mission, is pictured at his console in the space shuttle flight control room in the Johnson Space Center's Mission Control Center during launch countdown activities a few hundred miles away in Florida, site of space shuttle Discovery's STS-131 launch. jsc2010e046777

JSC2010-E-046777 (5 April 2010) --- Astronaut Rick Sturckow, spacecraft communicator (CAPCOM) for the STS-131 mission, is pictured at his console in the space shuttle flight control room in the Johnson Space Ce More

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

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