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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Dell Chapman applies tape to hold the gap filler in place on the orbiter Discovery while the glue dries. Looking on is quality inspector Travis Schlingman. Discovery is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2603

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Dell Chapman applies tape to hold the gap filler in place on the orbiter Discovery while the glue dries. Looking on is quality inspector Travis S More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner pulls strips of gap filler to install on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2593

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner pulls strips of gap filler to install on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station carries the External Stowage Platform-2, equipped with spare part assemblies, and a replacement Control Moment Gyroscope contained in the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure and Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello, housing 15 tons of hardware and supplies that will be transferred to the Station after the Shuttle docks to the complex . On this mission, the crew will perform inspections on-orbit for the first time of all of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) panels on the leading edge of the wings and the Thermal Protection System tiles using the new Canadian-built Orbiter Boom Sensor System and the data from 176 impact and temperature sensors. Mission Specialists will also practice repair techniques on RCC and tile samples during a spacewalk in the payload bay. KSC-05pp1799

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The Return to Flight mission to 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. - STS-114 Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. This is Noguchi’s first Shuttle flight. He represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station carries the External Stowage Platform-2, equipped with spare part assemblies, and a replacement Control Moment Gyroscope contained in the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure and Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello, housing 15 tons of hardware and supplies that will be transferred to the Station after the Shuttle docks to the complex . On this mission, the crew will perform inspections on-orbit for the first time of all of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) panels on the leading edge of the wings and the Thermal Protection System tiles using the new Canadian-built Orbiter Boom Sensor System and the data from 176 impact and temperature sensors. Mission Specialists will also practice repair techniques on RCC and tile samples during a spacewalk in the payload bay. KSC-05pp1797

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. This is Noguchi’s first Shuttle fl More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner makes a fit check on the piece of gap filler to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2596

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner makes a fit check on the piece of gap filler to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processin More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner places Teflon-coated fabric on either side of the gap filler before installation. The fabric ensures the glue remains in place until bonded and then the fabric is later removed. Discovery is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2599

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner places Teflon-coated fabric on either side of the gap filler before installation. The fabric ensures the glue remains in place until More

British troops head toward two of three C-130 Hercules aircraft to be loaded for a flight mission with U.S. 82nd Airborne Division troops. The troops will parachute into Arnhem, the Netherlands, to participate in an annual Market Garden (1944 Arnhem Drop) memorial service on Sept. 21

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Northolt Royal Air Force Base Country: England / Great Britain (ENG) Scene Camera Operator: MSGT Don Sutherland Release Status: Released to Publi More

E-3A airborne warning and control system aircraft crew members operate a control panel, during flight. The flight mission is part of a joint training exercise with elements of the NATO air-defense system in central Europe

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Ramstein Air Base State: Rheinland-Pfalz Country: Deutschland / Germany (DEU) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Bill Boardman Release Status: Released More

2LT Robert S. Roth, the pilot aboard an A-7 Corsair II aircraft, prepares for take-off on a flight mission during exercise Sentry Castle '81. The pilot is assigned to the 112th Tactical Fighter Group, Pennsylvania Air National Guard

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Subject Operation/Series: SENTRY CASTLE '81 Base: Pittsburgh State: Pennsylvania (PA) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: S More

A left side view of a B-52 Stratofortress aircraft releasing an AGM-86 air-launched cruise missile near Vandenberg Air Force Base, California. This flight mission is part of an Integrated Weapon System test

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Pacific Ocean (POC) Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Labeled line drawing of launch and entry suit identifies various components

Line drawings illustrate the front and back of the space shuttle launch and entry suit (LES) and labels identify various components. LES was designed for STS-26, the return to flight mission, and subsequent mis More

TDRS-C deployment. NASA public domain image colelction.

S26-31-012 (29 Sept. 1988) ) --- Discovery was used for NASA's Return to Flight Mission following the Challenger accident, during which the STS-26 crew delivered the TDRS-C satellite to Earth orbit. Photo cred More

Newly designed launch and entry suit (LES) modeled by technician

Space shuttle orange launch and entry suit (LES), a partial pressure suit, is modeled by a technician. LES was designed for STS-26, the return to flight mission, and subsequent missions. Included in the crew es More

Space Shuttle Project, Marshall Space Flight Center

After completion of a seven-day flight mission, the Space Shuttle Orbiter Endeavour (STS-47) landed at Kennedy Space Center's (KSC) Shuttle Landing Facility. Spacelab-J, a joint research venture between NASA an More

CPT Jim Tweet, an EF-111 Raven Electronic Warfare Officer from the 429th Electronic Combat Squadron, Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, pre-plans a flight mission. The EF-111 Raven is designed to provide electronic countermeasures support for tactical air forces and will detect, sort, identify and nullify different enemy's radar. CPT Tweet analyzes threats, chooses the best targets and creates jamming packages against those targets in support of the NATO enforcement of the no fly zone over Bosnia. Exact Date Shot Unknown

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Subject Operation/Series: DENY FLIGHT Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA) Scene Camera Operator: SRA Tana R. Hamilton Release More

CPT Jim Tweet, an EF-111 Raven Electronic Warfare Officer from the 429th Electronic Combat Squadron, Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, pre-plans a flight mission. The EF-111 Raven is designed to provide electronic countermeasures support for tactical air forces and will detect, sort, identify and nullify different enemy's radar. CPT Tweet analyzes threats, chooses the best targets and creates jamming packages against those targets in support of the NATO enforcement of the no fly zone over Bosnia. Exact Date Shot Unknown

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Subject Operation/Series: DENY FLIGHT Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA) Scene Camera Operator: SRA Tana R. Hamilton Release More

A US Air Force Major Dave Halter chief navigator instructor at the Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, Saint Joseph Missouri and USAF Captain Eric Hook, a navigator with the 517th Airlift Squadron go over the flight mission for the next day. From AIRMAN Magazine, Aug 2000 "Article Surviving the Heavy Hunters"

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Rosecrans Ang Base State: Missouri (MO) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Camera Operator: MSGT Dave Nolan Release Status: Released More

VP-1 conducts reconnaissance missions in the Middle East

Central Command Area of Operation (Oct. 22, 2002) Aviation Machinist's Mate 2nd Class Steve Rodriguez, a flight engineer assigned to the "Screaming Eagles" of Patrol Squadron One (VP-1) carefully monitors the r More

VP-1 conducts reconnaissance missions in the Middle East

Central Command Area of Operation (Oct. 22, 2002) Lt. j.g. Joy Zelinski, an Aviation Intelligence Officer assigned to the "Screaming Eagles" of Patrol Squadron One (VP-1), conducts an intelligence brief to crew More

VP-1 conducts reconnaissance missions in the Middle East

Central Command Area of Operation (Oct. 22, 2002) Aviation Electrician's Mate 2nd Class Jesse Olmstead, a flight engineer assigned to the "Screaming Eagles" of Patrol Squadron One (VP-1), calculates the fuel du More

P-3C Orion on a routine mission

Central Command Area of Operation (Nov. 01, 2002) Aviation Electrician's Mate 2nd Class Steve Rapp, a flight engineer assigned to the "Screaming Eagles" of Patrol Squadron One (VP-1), performs a post flight ins More

Alpha Company (A CO) maintenance team US Army (USA) Private First Class (PFC) Topson, USA SPECIALIST Fourth Class (SPC) Woslon, USA SPC Rodrigues and USA Sergeant (SGT) Rivera of 2nd Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment (2-101st), Campbell Army Airfield (AAF), Fort Campbell, Kentucky (KY), pose next to a USA AH-64 Apache attack helicopter. They just finished inspecting the aircraft after it completed its flight mission at Tactical Assembly Area (TAA) SHELL in Central Iraq. The Regiment is currently deployed in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Iraq (IRQ) Scene Camera Operator: SGT Igor Paustovski, USA Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Two US Air Force (USAF) F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter aircraft (left and third from left), 79th Fighter Squadron (FS), Shaw Air Force Base (AFB), South Carolina (SC), and two Royal Kuwait Air Force (RKAF) F/A-18 Hornet fighter and attack aircraft (second and fourth from left) sit parked waiting to take-off from Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base (AB), Al Ahmadi, Kuwait (KWT), to participate in the joint service training mission Exercise Eastern Falcon, while a RKAF F-5F Tiger II aircraft (background) returns from its training flight mission

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base State: Al Ahmadi Country: Kuwait (KWT) Scene Camera Operator: SSGT Adrain C. Nead, USAF Release Status: Released to Publ More

A pilot assigned to the Jolly Rogers of Fighter Squadron One Zero Three (VF-103) climbs the ladder of an F-14D Tomcat to enter the cockpit prior to a flight mission to be launched from the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67).

Arabian Gulf (Jul. 09, 2004) A pilot assigned to the "Jolly Rogers" of Fighter Squadron One Zero Three (VF-103) climbs the ladder of an F-14D Tomcat to enter the cockpit prior to a flight mission to be launched More

Pilots assigned to the Jolly Rogers of Fighter Squadron One Zero Three (VF-103) approach an F-14D Tomcat ready for a flight mission launched from USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67).

Arabian Gulf (Jul. 09, 2004) Pilots assigned to the "Jolly Rogers" of Fighter Squadron One Zero Three (VF-103) approach an F-14D Tomcat ready for a flight mission launched from USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67). The More

An F-14D Tomcat assigned to the Jolly Rogers of Fighter Squadron One Zero Three (VF-103) departs for a flight mission from the flight deck aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67).

Arabian Gulf (Jul. 09, 2004) An F-14D Tomcat assigned to the "Jolly Rogers" of Fighter Squadron One Zero Three (VF-103) departs for a flight mission from the flight deck aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67). The More

An EA-6B Prowler conducts a flight mission over the Arabian Gulf.

Arabian Gulf (Sep. 06, 2004) An EA-6B Prowler assigned to the Scorpions of Electronic Attack Squadron One Three Two (VAQ-132) conducts a flight mission over the Arabian Gulf. VAQ-132 is embarked aboard the conv More

Lt. Chad Fairbank, an Electronic Countermeasure Officer (ECMO), performs a flight mission in an EA-6B Prowler.

Arabian Gulf (Sep. 06, 2004) Lt. Chad Fairbank, an Electronic Countermeasure Officer (ECMO) assigned to the Scorpions of Electronic Attack Squadron One Three Two (VAQ-132), performs a flight mission in an EA-6B More

S-3B Viking pilot Lt. Jack Garcia assigned to Sea Control Squadron Three Zero (VS-30) performs a flight mission over the Arabian Gulf.

Arabian Gulf (Sep. 22, 2004) S-3B Viking pilot Lt. Jack Garcia assigned to the Diamond Cutters of Sea Control Squadron Three Zero (VS-30) performs a flight mission over the Arabian Gulf. The Diamond Cutters are More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Commander Eileen Collins autographs crew photos following the dedication of a hospital wing at the V.A. Outpatient Clinic in Viera, Fla. The wing was dedicated in honor of space shuttle Discovery, to be known as the Discovery wing. Collins and her crew have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2384

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Commander Eileen Collins autographs crew photos following the dedication of a hospital wing at the V.A. Outpatient Clinic in Viera, Fla. The wing was dedicated in honor of More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dan Phillips (left) and Donald Nielen, with United Space Alliance, watch a monitor as Jim Landy, NDE specialist with USA, prepares to examine a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel (on the table, center) using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, thermography uses high intensity light to heat areas of the panels. The panels are then immediately scanned with an infrared camera. As the panels cool, any internal flaws are revealed. The gray carbon composite RCC panels are attached to the leading edge of the wing of the orbiters. They have sufficient strength to withstand the aerodynamic forces experienced during launch and reentry, which can reach as high as 800 pounds per square foot. The operating range of RCC is from minus 250º F to about 3,000º F, the temperature produced by friction with the atmosphere during reentry. The panels will be installed on the orbiter Discovery, designated for the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dan Phillips (left) and Donald Nielen, with United Space Alliance, watch a monitor as Jim Landy, NDE specialist with USA, prepares to examine a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel (on More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technician Dave Fuller installs the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel on the left wing leading edge of Discovery. The RCC panels are mechanically attached to the wing with spars, a series of floating joints to reduce loading on the panels caused by wing deflections. Discovery has been named as the orbiter to fly on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0538

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technician Dave Fuller installs the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel on the left wing leading edge of Discovery. The R More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A NASA quality inspector checks the placement of Rudder Speed Brake actuator No. 4 as work to install it on Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery nears completion in the Orbiter Processing Facility. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd0835

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A NASA quality inspector checks the placement of Rudder Speed Brake actuator No. 4 as work to install it on Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery nears completion in the Orbiter Processi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Ken Tauer (left) and Paul Ogletree, with United Space Alliance, check an area on Discovery’s nose cap before conducting thermography on the nose cap. At the bottom, Ross Neubarth looks at the monitor. Thermography is one type of inspection to verify integrity of hardware before flight. This procedure uses high intensity light to heat areas that are immediately scanned with an infrared camera to check for internal flaws. Discovery is the vehicle assigned to the Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0867

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Ken Tauer (left) and Paul Ogletree, with United Space Alliance, check an area on Discovery’s nose cap before conducting thermography on the nose More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - United Space Alliance technicians start the lift of Rudder Speed Brake actuator No. 4 to Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Processing Facility. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd0832

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - United Space Alliance technicians start the lift of Rudder Speed Brake actuator No. 4 to Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Processing Facility. Discovery has been assi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel is ready for installation on the left wing leading edge on Discovery. The RCC panels are mechanically attached to the wing with spars, a series of floating joints to reduce loading on the panels caused by wing deflections. Discovery has been named as the orbiter to fly on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0527

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel is ready for installation on the left wing leading edge on Discovery. The RCC panels are mechanically More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technician Jim Burgess (right) works on the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel to be installed on the left wing leading edge on Discovery. At left is USA technician Dave Fuller. The RCC panels are mechanically attached to the wing with spars, a series of floating joints to reduce loading on the panels caused by wing deflections. Discovery has been named as the orbiter to fly on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0530

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technician Jim Burgess (right) works on the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel to be installed on the left wing leading More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - One of four rudder speed brake actuators is lifted for transfer to a pallet where it will be X-rayed. The actuators, to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, are being X-rayed at the Radiographic High-Energy X-ray Facility at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station to determine if the gears were installed correctly. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd0414

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - One of four rudder speed brake actuators is lifted for transfer to a pallet where it will be X-rayed. The actuators, to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, are being X-rayed at More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station carries the External Stowage Platform-2, equipped with spare part assemblies, and a replacement Control Moment Gyroscope contained in the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure and Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello, housing 15 tons of hardware and supplies that will be transferred to the Station after the Shuttle docks to the complex . On this mission, the crew will perform inspections on-orbit for the first time of all of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) panels on the leading edge of the wings and the Thermal Protection System tiles using the new Canadian-built Orbiter Boom Sensor System and the data from 176 impact and temperature sensors. Mission Specialists will also practice repair techniques on RCC and tile samples during a spacewalk in the payload bay. KSC-05pp1796

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The Return to Flight mission to the More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A rudder speed brake actuator sits on an air-bearing pallet to undergo X-raying. Four actuators to be installed on the orbiter Discovery are being X-rayed at the Radiographic High-Energy X-ray Facility to determine if the gears were installed correctly. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A rudder speed brake actuator sits on an air-bearing pallet to undergo X-raying. Four actuators to be installed on the orbiter Discovery are being X-rayed at the Radiographic High More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, John Legere, NASA Quality Assurance specialist, examines the attachment point for the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel to be installed on the left wing leading edge of Discovery. The RCC panels are mechanically attached to the wing with spars, a series of floating joints to reduce loading on the panels caused by wing deflections. Discovery has been named as the orbiter to fly on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0534

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, John Legere, NASA Quality Assurance specialist, examines the attachment point for the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel to be installed on th More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, Larry Tanner, a United Space Alliance orbiter technician, inspects and measures thermal protection system gap fillers in Discovery’s forward and midbody areas. This work is being performed after two gap fillers were found protruding from the underside of Discovery on the July 26 Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures are being developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard on re-entry to the atmosphere. KSC-05pd2519

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, Larry Tanner, a United Space Alliance orbiter technician, inspects and measures thermal protection system gap fill More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, STS-114 Mission Specialists Soichi Noguchi and Stephen Robinson speak to a crowd of employees. They and other crew members are visiting several sites during their return to Kennedy Space Center. They have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2370

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, STS-114 Mission Specialists Soichi Noguchi and Stephen Robinson speak to a crowd of employees. They and other More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dr. Thomas Howard, chief medical officer at the V.A. Outpatient Clinic in Viera, Fla., speaks to guests during the dedication of a hospital wing in honor of space shuttle Discovery, to be known as the Discovery wing. Joining in the dedication are, seated at left, STS-114 Mission Commander Eileen Collins, Norris Gray and Center Director Jim Kennedy. Gray was a long-time employee of Kennedy Space Center, in charge of fire safety from 1949 until his retirement in 1984. Collins and her crew have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2378

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Dr. Thomas Howard, chief medical officer at the V.A. Outpatient Clinic in Viera, Fla., speaks to guests during the dedication of a hospital wing in honor of space shuttle Discover More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Specialist Charles Camarda is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. This is Camarda’s first Shuttle flight. The Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station carries the External Stowage Platform-2, equipped with spare part assemblies, and a replacement Control Moment Gyroscope contained in the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure and Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello, housing 15 tons of hardware and supplies that will be transferred to the Station after the Shuttle docks to the complex . On this mission, the crew will perform inspections on-orbit for the first time of all of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) panels on the leading edge of the wings and the Thermal Protection System tiles using the new Canadian-built Orbiter Boom Sensor System and the data from 176 impact and temperature sensors. Mission Specialists will also practice repair techniques on RCC and tile samples during a spacewalk in the payload bay. KSC-05pp1794

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Specialist Charles Camarda is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. This is Camarda’s first Shuttle f More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A rudder speed brake actuator sits on an air-bearing pallet to undergo X-raying. Four actuators to be installed on the orbiter Discovery are being X-rayed at the Radiographic High-Energy X-ray Facility to determine if the gears were installed correctly. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A rudder speed brake actuator sits on an air-bearing pallet to undergo X-raying. Four actuators to be installed on the orbiter Discovery are being X-rayed at the Radiographic High More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - United Space Alliance technicians verify the alignment of Rudder Speed Brake actuator No.4 as it is attached to Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Processing Facility. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd0836

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - United Space Alliance technicians verify the alignment of Rudder Speed Brake actuator No.4 as it is attached to Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Processing Facility. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Rudder Speed Brake actuator No. 4 is ready for installation on Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Processing Facility. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd0830

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Rudder Speed Brake actuator No. 4 is ready for installation on Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Processing Facility. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return t More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance worker Ross Neubarth checks the monitor during thermography of Discovery’s nose cap. Thermography is one type of inspection to verify integrity of hardware before flight. This procedure uses high intensity light to heat areas that are immediately scanned with an infrared camera to check for internal flaws. Discovery is the vehicle assigned to the Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0869

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance worker Ross Neubarth checks the monitor during thermography of Discovery’s nose cap. Thermography is one type of inspecti More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technicians Jim Burgess (left) and Dave Fuller (right) carry the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel toward the left wing leading edge of Discovery for installation. The RCC panels are mechanically attached to the wing with spars, a series of floating joints to reduce loading on the panels caused by wing deflections. Discovery has been named as the orbiter to fly on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0535

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technicians Jim Burgess (left) and Dave Fuller (right) carry the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel toward the left win More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a special commemorative service held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to honor NASA's fallen heroes, Kennedy Center Director Bill Parsons speaks to guests gathered in front of the Space Mirror Memorial. Other participants seated on the dais are (from left) NASA Administrator Michael Griffin; Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization G. Madhavan Nair; the 2007 Alan Shepard Technology in Education Award winner Luther Richardson; Shuttle Commander and former NASA Associate Administrator for Space Operations William Readdy; NASA Associate Administrator for Space Operations William Gerstenmaier; Shuttle Commander Eileen Collins of the Return to Flight mission, STS-114; Evelyn Husband-Thompson, widow of Colonel Rick Husband; and Astronauts Memorial Foundation President Stephen Feldman. Kennedy marked the NASA Day of Remembrance with special ceremonies. This year the crew of Columbia was remembered in a special way on the day that marked the fifth anniversary of the Columbia accident. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd0109

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a special commemorative service held at NASA's Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to honor NASA's fallen heroes, Kennedy Center Director Bill Parsons speaks to guests gathered More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, STS-114 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson autographs photos for employees. Behind him, at left, is Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi. They and other crew members are visiting several sites during their return to KSC. They have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2389

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, STS-114 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson autographs photos for employees. Behind him, at left, is Mission Specialis More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a celebration for the STS-114 crew and the successful return to flight mission, members of the crew answer questions from the audience of employees and family members in the Universe Theater. At left, with the microphone, is Pilot James Kelly. At the podium are Mission Specialists Stephen Robinson and Wendy Lawrence. The crew returned to Florida especially for the celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex. KSC-05pd2388

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a celebration for the STS-114 crew and the successful return to flight mission, members of the crew answer questions from the audience of employees and family members in the Uni More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Commander Eileen Collins (left) is greeted at the entrance to the V.A. Outpatient Clinic in Viera, Fla., by Dr. Thomas Howard (center), chief medical officer, and Dr. Michael Doukas (right), chief of staff with the Orlando V.A. Medical Center. Collins is participating in the dedication of a hospital wing in honor of space shuttle Discovery, to be known as the Discovery wing. Collins and her crew have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2377

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Commander Eileen Collins (left) is greeted at the entrance to the V.A. Outpatient Clinic in Viera, Fla., by Dr. Thomas Howard (center), chief medical officer, and More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner cuts the strip of gap filler to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2595

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner cuts the strip of gap filler to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Pilot James Kelly is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery.The Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station carries the External Stowage Platform-2, equipped with spare part assemblies, and a replacement Control Moment Gyroscope contained in the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure and Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello, housing 15 tons of hardware and supplies that will be transferred to the Station after the Shuttle docks to the complex . On this mission, the crew will perform inspections on-orbit for the first time of all of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon (RCC) panels on the leading edge of the wings and the Thermal Protection System tiles using the new Canadian-built Orbiter Boom Sensor System and the data from 176 impact and temperature sensors. Mission Specialists will also practice repair techniques on RCC and tile samples during a spacewalk in the payload bay. KSC-05pp1795

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Pilot James Kelly is helped by the Closeout Crew with his launch and entry suit before entering Space Shuttle Discovery.The Return to Flight mission to the International Sp More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance (USA) worker Paul Ogletree points to an area on Discovery’s nose cap while Ross Neubarth (right), also with USA, looks at the monitor. Behind Ogletree is USA worker Ken Tauer. The nose cap is undergoing thermography, one type of inspection to verify integrity of hardware before flight. This procedure uses high intensity light to heat areas that are immediately scanned with an infrared camera to check for internal flaws. Discovery is the vehicle assigned to the Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0871

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance (USA) worker Paul Ogletree points to an area on Discovery’s nose cap while Ross Neubarth (right), also with USA, looks at More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with USA, looks closely at an area of a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel just examined using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, thermography uses high intensity light to heat areas of the panels. The panels are then immediately scanned with an infrared camera. As the panels cool, any internal flaws are revealed. The gray carbon composite RCC panels are attached to the leading edge of the wing of the orbiters. They have sufficient strength to withstand the aerodynamic forces experienced during launch and reentry, which can reach as high as 800 pounds per square foot. The operating range of RCC is from minus 250º F to about 3,000º F, the temperature produced by friction with the atmosphere during reentry. The panels will be installed on the orbiter Discovery, designated for the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0450

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with USA, looks closely at an area of a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel just examined using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, thermogr More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - One of four rudder speed brake actuators arrives at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The actuators, to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, are being X-rayed at the Radiographic High-Energy X-ray Facility to determine if the gears were installed correctly. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - One of four rudder speed brake actuators arrives at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. The actuators, to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, are being X-rayed at the Radiographi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner places a strip of gap filler on the tile of Discovery’s underbelly to measure it for installation. Discovery is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2594

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner places a strip of gap filler on the tile of Discovery’s underbelly to measure it for installation. Discovery is being processed in Or More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Dell Chapman installs the gap filler between tiles on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2602

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Dell Chapman installs the gap filler between tiles on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, workers inspect and measure thermal protection system gap fillers in Discovery’s forward and midbody areas. This work is being performed after two gap fillers were found protruding from the underside of Discovery on the July 26 Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures are being developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard on re-entry to the atmosphere. The white strings stretching across the belly of the orbiter separate prioritized work zones. The work seen here is in zone 1. KSC-05pd2518

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, workers inspect and measure thermal protection system gap fillers in Discovery’s forward and midbody areas. This wo More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, STS-114 Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi speaks to employees. At right is Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson. They and other crew members are visiting several sites during their return to Kennedy Space Center. They have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2368

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, STS-114 Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi speaks to employees. At right is Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station place one of four rudder speed brake actuators onto a pallet for X-ray. The actuators, to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, are being X-rayed at the Radiographic High-Energy X-ray Facility to determine if the gears were installed correctly. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station place one of four rudder speed brake actuators onto a pallet for X-ray. The actuators, to be installed on the orbiter Discovery, are be More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers in the Orbiter Processing Facility help prepare the body flap for lifting prior to installation on the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels and a trailing edge assembly. It thermally shields the three main engines during entry and provides pitch control trim during landing approach. Discovery is being processed for launch on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0453

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers in the Orbiter Processing Facility help prepare the body flap for lifting prior to installation on the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, A Hyster forklift supports the body flap as workers secure it to the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels and a trailing edge assembly. It thermally shields the three main engines during entry and provides pitch control trim during landing approach. Discovery is being processed for launch on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0460

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, A Hyster forklift supports the body flap as workers secure it to the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of rib More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technicians Dave Fuller (rear) and Jim Burgess (front) continue installing the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel on the left wing leading edge of Discovery. The RCC panels are mechanically attached to the wing with spars, a series of floating joints to reduce loading on the panels caused by wing deflections. Discovery has been named as the orbiter to fly on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0540

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technicians Dave Fuller (rear) and Jim Burgess (front) continue installing the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel on the More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with United Space Alliance, sets up equipment to examine a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, thermography uses high intensity light to heat areas of the panels. The panels are then immediately scanned with an infrared camera. As the panels cool, any internal flaws are revealed. The gray carbon composite RCC panels are attached to the leading edge of the wing of the orbiters. They have sufficient strength to withstand the aerodynamic forces experienced during launch and reentry, which can reach as high as 800 pounds per square foot. The operating range of RCC is from minus 250º F to about 3,000º F, the temperature produced by friction with the atmosphere during reentry. The panels will be installed on the orbiter Discovery, designated for the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with United Space Alliance, sets up equipment to examine a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, th More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Gene Peavler removes the excess gap filler he cut away from the tile on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2607

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Gene Peavler removes the excess gap filler he cut away from the tile on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Fac More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a celebration for the STS-114 crew and the successful return to flight mission, members of the crew relate their experiences for an enthusiastic audience of employees and family members in the IMAX Theater. On the stage from left are Mission Specialists Soichi Noguchi and Charles Camarda, and Commander Eileen Collins at the podium. The crew returned to Florida especially for the celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex. KSC-05pd2385

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a celebration for the STS-114 crew and the successful return to flight mission, members of the crew relate their experiences for an enthusiastic audience of employees and family More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Commander Eileen Collins speaks to guests during the dedication of a hospital wing at the V.A. Outpatient Clinic in Viera, Fla., in honor of space shuttle Discovery, to be known as the Discovery wing. Joining in the dedication are, seated at left, Center Director Jim Kennedy and Dr. Thomas Howard who is chief medical officer of the clinic. Collins and her crew have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2380

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 Mission Commander Eileen Collins speaks to guests during the dedication of a hospital wing at the V.A. Outpatient Clinic in Viera, Fla., in honor of space shuttle Discover More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (far left) and STS-114 Mission Commander Eileen Collins (center) present a photo of the launch of Discovery to Dr. Thomas Howard, chief medical officer of the V.A. Outpatient Clinic in Viera, Fla. The presentation is part of the dedication of a hospital wing in honor of space shuttle Discovery, to be known as the Discovery wing. Collins and her crew have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2381

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Center Director Jim Kennedy (far left) and STS-114 Mission Commander Eileen Collins (center) present a photo of the launch of Discovery to Dr. Thomas Howard, chief medical officer More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Dell Chapman applies the Teflon-coated fabric to the gap filler before installation on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2601

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Dell Chapman applies the Teflon-coated fabric to the gap filler before installation on the orbiter Discovery, which is being processed in Orbiter More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technicians Jim Burgess (left) and Dave Fuller (right) prepare the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel for installation on the left wing leading edge on Discovery. The RCC panels are mechanically attached to the wing with spars, a series of floating joints to reduce loading on the panels caused by wing deflections. Discovery has been named as the orbiter to fly on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0528

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technicians Jim Burgess (left) and Dave Fuller (right) prepare the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel for installation o More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker on a ladder (lower left) observes installation of the body flap onto the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels and a trailing edge assembly. It thermally shields the three main engines during entry and provides pitch control trim during landing approach. Discovery is being processed for launch on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0461

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker on a ladder (lower left) observes installation of the body flap onto the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with United Space Alliance (USA), prepares equipment to examine a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, thermography uses high intensity light to heat areas of the panels. The panels are then immediately scanned with an infrared camera. As the panels cool, any internal flaws are revealed. The gray carbon composite RCC panels are attached to the leading edge of the wing of the orbiters. They have sufficient strength to withstand the aerodynamic forces experienced during launch and reentry, which can reach as high as 800 pounds per square foot. The operating range of RCC is from minus 250º F to about 3,000º F, the temperature produced by friction with the atmosphere during reentry. The panels will be installed on the orbiter Discovery, designated for the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with United Space Alliance (USA), prepares equipment to examine a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, the body flap is moved into position for installation on the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels and a trailing edge assembly. It thermally shields the three main engines during entry and provides pitch control trim during landing approach. Discovery is being processed for launch on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0457

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, the body flap is moved into position for installation on the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spar More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, STS-114 Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi autographs photos for employees. He and other crew members are visiting several sites during their return to KSC. They have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2390

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, STS-114 Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi autographs photos for employees. He and other crew members are visiting sever More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The body flap is installed on the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels and a trailing edge assembly. It thermally shields the three main engines during entry and provides pitch control trim during landing approach. Discovery is being processed for launch on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0464

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The body flap is installed on the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels and a trailing edge assembly. It thermally shield More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance workers Ross Neubarth and Paul Ogletree (foreground, left and right) look at the monitor for results of thermography on Discovery’s nose cap. Behind them is Ken Tauer. Thermography is one type of inspection to verify integrity of hardware before flight. This procedure uses high intensity light to heat areas that are immediately scanned with an infrared camera to check for internal flaws. Discovery is the vehicle assigned to the Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0870

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance workers Ross Neubarth and Paul Ogletree (foreground, left and right) look at the monitor for results of thermography on Di More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, seen here is the vertical stabilizer on the orbiter Discovery. On the edge of the stabilizer are the four Rudder Speed Brake Actuators recently installed. Below is the engine number 1 interface. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd0951

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, seen here is the vertical stabilizer on the orbiter Discovery. On the edge of the stabilizer are the four Rudder Speed Brake Actuators recently More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technician Jim Burgess installs the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel on the left wing leading edge of Discovery. The RCC panels are mechanically attached to the wing with spars, a series of floating joints to reduce loading on the panels caused by wing deflections. Discovery has been named as the orbiter to fly on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0539

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technician Jim Burgess installs the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel on the left wing leading edge of Discovery. The R More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A United Space Alliance technician monitors Rudder Speed Brake actuator No. 4 as it is moved into position for installation on Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Processing Facility. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd0833

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A United Space Alliance technician monitors Rudder Speed Brake actuator No. 4 as it is moved into position for installation on Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Proces More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, from left, United Space Alliance workers Ken Tauer and Paul Ogletree set up an infrared camera in front of Discovery’s nose cap while Ross Neubarth checks the monitor. The nose cap will undergo thermography to verify integrity of hardware before flight. This procedure uses high intensity light to heat areas that are immediately scanned with an infrared camera to check for internal flaws. Discovery is the vehicle assigned to the Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0868

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, from left, United Space Alliance workers Ken Tauer and Paul Ogletree set up an infrared camera in front of Discovery’s nose cap while Ross Neuba More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, employees crowd around STS-114 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson as he signs mementos for them. Robinson joined Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi to talk to the employees about their successful mission. They and other crew members are visiting several sites during their return to Kennedy Space Center. They have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2371

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, employees crowd around STS-114 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson as he signs mementos for them. Robinson joi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technicians Dave Fuller (left) and Jim Burgess (right) lift the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel toward the left wing leading edge of Discovery for installation. The RCC panels are mechanically attached to the wing with spars, a series of floating joints to reduce loading on the panels caused by wing deflections. Discovery has been named as the orbiter to fly on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0536

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, United Space Alliance technicians Dave Fuller (left) and Jim Burgess (right) lift the first Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panel toward the left wing More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Ross Neubarth, with United Space Alliance, prepares Discovery’s nose cap for thermography. This procedure uses high intensity light to heat areas that are immediately scanned with an infrared camera to check for internal flaws. The thermography is one type of inspection to verify integrity of hardware before flight. Discovery is the vehicle assigned to the Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0866

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Ross Neubarth, with United Space Alliance, prepares Discovery’s nose cap for thermography. This procedure uses high intensity light to heat are More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner uses a contour tool to determine the fit needed for the gap filler against the orbiter’s frame. Discovery is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2597

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner uses a contour tool to determine the fit needed for the gap filler against the orbiter’s frame. Discovery is being processed in Orb More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, the body flap for the orbiter Discovery is prepared for installation. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels and a trailing edge assembly. It thermally shields the three main engines during entry and provides pitch control trim during landing approach. Discovery is being processed for launch on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0452

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, the body flap for the orbiter Discovery is prepared for installation. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin pan More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Hyster forklift in the Orbiter Processing Facility moves the body flap toward the aft of the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels and a trailing edge assembly. It thermally shields the three main engines during entry and provides pitch control trim during landing approach. Discovery is being processed for launch on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0455

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Hyster forklift in the Orbiter Processing Facility moves the body flap toward the aft of the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with United Space Alliance (USA), examines a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, thermography uses high intensity light to heat areas of the panels. The panels are then immediately scanned with an infrared camera. As the panels cool, any internal flaws are revealed. The gray carbon composite RCC panels are attached to the leading edge of the wing of the orbiters. They have sufficient strength to withstand the aerodynamic forces experienced during launch and reentry, which can reach as high as 800 pounds per square foot. The operating range of RCC is from minus 250º F to about 3,000º F, the temperature produced by friction with the atmosphere during reentry. The panels will be installed on the orbiter Discovery, designated for the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with United Space Alliance (USA), examines a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, thermography use More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A United Space Alliance technician monitors the placement of Rudder Speed Brake actuator No.4 as work proceeds to install it on Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Processing Facility. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station. KSC-04pd0834

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A United Space Alliance technician monitors the placement of Rudder Speed Brake actuator No.4 as work proceeds to install it on Space Shuttle orbiter Discovery in the Orbiter Proce More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Hyster forklift in the Orbiter Processing Facility lifts the body flap to be installed on the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, skin panels and a trailing edge assembly. It thermally shields the three main engines during entry and provides pitch control trim during landing approach. Discovery is being processed for launch on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. KSC-04pd0454

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A Hyster forklift in the Orbiter Processing Facility lifts the body flap to be installed on the orbiter Discovery. The body flap is an aluminum structure consisting of ribs, spars, More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, Keith Evans, a United Space Alliance orbiter technician, inspects and measures thermal protection system gap fillers in Discovery’s forward and midbody areas. This work is being performed after two gap fillers were found protruding from the underside of Discovery on the July 26 Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures are being developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard on re-entry to the atmosphere. KSC-05pd2520

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, Keith Evans, a United Space Alliance orbiter technician, inspects and measures thermal protection system gap filler More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner punches three holes in the gap filler to be installed on Discovery. The holes are used for the string pull test done after installation to ensure the gap filler is bonded properly. Discovery is being processed in Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This work is being performed due to two gap fillers that were protruding from the underside of Discovery on the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114. New installation procedures have been developed to ensure the gap fillers stay in place and do not pose any hazard during the shuttle's re-entry to the atmosphere. Discovery is the scheduled orbiter for the second space shuttle mission in the return-to-flight sequence. KSC-05pd2598

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance technician Larry Tanner punches three holes in the gap filler to be installed on Discovery. The holes are used for the string pull test done after installat More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, STS-114 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson speaks to employees. At right is Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi. They and other crew members are visiting several sites during their return to Kennedy Space Center. They have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2369

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Assembly and Refurbishment Facility, STS-114 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson speaks to employees. At right is Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, STS-114 Mission Commander Eileen Collins poses with closeout crew members Paul Arnold, Al Schmidt and Tim Seymour after presented them the photos they are holding. Collins and other crew members are visiting several sites during their return to KSC. They have returned to Florida especially for a celebration in the KSC Visitor Complex of the successful return to flight mission that launched July 26 of this year. KSC-05pd2391

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In Kennedy Space Center’s Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, STS-114 Mission Commander Eileen Collins poses with closeout crew members Paul Arnold, Al Schmidt and Tim Seymour after More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An X-ray machine is in place to take images of four rudder speed brake actuators to be installed on the orbiter Discovery. The actuators are being X-rayed at the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station’s Radiographic High-Energy X-ray Facility to determine if the gears were installed correctly. Discovery has been assigned to the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, a logistics flight to the International Space Station.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An X-ray machine is in place to take images of four rudder speed brake actuators to be installed on the orbiter Discovery. The actuators are being X-rayed at the Cape Canaveral Ai More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with USA, points to an area of a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel just examined using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, thermography uses high intensity light to heat areas of the panels. The panels are then immediately scanned with an infrared camera. As the panels cool, any internal flaws are revealed. The gray carbon composite RCC panels are attached to the leading edge of the wing of the orbiters. They have sufficient strength to withstand the aerodynamic forces experienced during launch and reentry, which can reach as high as 800 pounds per square foot. The operating range of RCC is from minus 250º F to about 3,000º F, the temperature produced by friction with the atmosphere during reentry. The panels will be installed on the orbiter Discovery, designated for the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Jim Landy, NDE specialist with USA, points to an area of a Reinforced Carbon Carbon panel just examined using flash thermography. A relatively new procedure at KSC, thermography More