211 Tail Cone Image: PICRYL - Public Domain Media Search Engine Public Domain Search}

Underwater images - Tailgunner's Position

In the late stages of WWII, B-29s were modified for a wide range of non combat duties. Here, the tail cone that replaced the ball socket for the tailgater's machine guns/cannons is missing, lost in the crash.

Production. Airplane manufacture, general. A woman employee in the enclosures department of North American Aviation's Inglewood, California, plant, inspects a tail cone for flaws before it moves to the assembly department. This plant produces the battle tested B-25 ("Billy Mitchell") bomber, used in General Doolittle's raid on Tokyo, and the P-51 ("Mustang") fighter plane, which was first brought into prominence by the British raid on Dieppe

Public domain photograph of California in 1930s, free to use, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

The tail cone of a North American B-25 bomber is masked off by a painter before the ship receives its camouflage. Cone contains tail and signal light. No more gunners

Title and other information from caption sheet entry. Transfer; United States. Office of War Information. Overseas Picture Division. Washington Division; 1944. More information about the FSA/OWI Collection is a More

The tail cone of a North American B-25 bomber is masked off by a painter before the ship receives its camouflage. Cone contains tail and signal light. No more gunners

Picryl description: Public domain image of a bomber aircraft, military aviation, air forces, free to use, no copyright restrictions.

Production. A-31 ("Vengeance") dive bombers. Layout for control rods. One of the women employees at the Nashville Division of Vultee Aircraft Inc. is pictured inside a tail cone which will be incorporated in a Vultee "Vengeance" dive bomber. She is checking the layout for control rods. The "Vengeance" (A-31) was originally designed for the French. It was later adopted by the RAF (Royal Air Force) and still later by the U.S. Army Air Forces. It is a single-engine, low-wing plane, carrying a crew of two men and having six machine guns of varying calibers

Public domain photograph of the 1930s-1940s World War Two, armed forces, military production, no copyright restrictions image - Picryl description

Production. A-31 ("Vengeance") dive bombers. Tail cone sub-assembly. In this scene one girl is operating a rivet gun as another girl bucks the rivets in the tail cone sub-assembly, a fabrication operation in the manufacture of the Vultee "Vengeance" dive bomber at the Nashville Division of Vultee Aircraft Inc. The "Vengeance" (A-31) was originally designed for the French. It was later adopted by the RAF (Royal Air Force) and still later by the U.S. Army Air Forces. It is a single-engine, low-wing plane, carrying a crew of two men and having six machine guns of varying calibers

Actual size of negative is C (approximately 4 x 5 inches). Title and other information from caption card. Transfer; United States. Office of War Information. Overseas Picture Division. Washington Division; 1944 More

Production. A-31 ("Vengeance") dive bombers. Tail cone sub-assembly. In this scene one girl is operating a rivet gun as another girl bucks the rivets in the tail cone sub-assembly, a fabrication operation in the manufacture of the Vultee "Vengeance" dive bomber at the Nashville Division of Vultee Aircraft Inc. The "Vengeance" (A-31) was originally designed for the French. It was later adopted by the RAF (Royal Air Force) and still later by the U.S. Army Air Forces. It is a single-engine, low-wing plane, carrying a crew of two men and having six machine guns of varying calibers

Picryl description: Public domain image of a bomber aircraft, military aviation, air forces, free to use, no copyright restrictions.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians use a crane to pick up the right side tail cone for buildup on space shuttle Endeavour. The tail cone protects space shuttle main engines during ferry flights on top of the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Endeavour and Atlantis. Endeavour is being prepared for public display at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Its ferry flight to California is targeted for mid-September. Endeavour was the last space shuttle added to NASA’s orbiter fleet. Over the course of its 19-year career, Endeavour spent 299 days in space during 25 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-2835

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians use a crane to pick up the right side tail cone for buildup on space shut More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is being readied for its move to the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. The aft view of Discovery reveals the tail cone that covers the three replica shuttle main engines. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Discovery, which is being prepared for display at Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. Discovery will remain in high bay 4 of the VAB until its scheduled transport atop a NASA Shuttle Carrier Aircraft modified 747 jet to Dulles International Airport in Virginia on April 17. Discovery will then be transported to the Smithsonian on April 19. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-1698

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is being readied for its move to the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. The aft view of More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The tail cone for space shuttle Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines (RSMEs) is being transported to Orbiter processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The tail cone will be installed around Discovery’s RSMEs for protection. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Discovery. Discovery is being prepared for display at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-1029

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The tail cone for space shuttle Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines (RSMEs) is being transported to Orbiter processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Th More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis foreground is towed in to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 after being towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. Workers will continue to prepare Atlantis for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Meanwhile, space shuttle Discovery is on the move from OPF-1 to the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. The aft view of Discovery reveals the tail cone that covers the three replica shuttle main engines. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Discovery, which is being prepared for display at Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. Discovery will remain in high bay 4 of the VAB until its scheduled transport atop a NASA Shuttle Carrier Aircraft modified 747 jet to Dulles International Airport in Virginia on April 17. Discovery will then be transported to the Smithsonian on April 19. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-1710

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis foreground is towed in to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 after being towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. Workers More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the tail cone is installed around space shuttle Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines for protection. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Discovery. Discovery is being prepared for display at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-1039

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the tail cone is installed around space shuttle Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines for protect More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As the sun comes up over the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is suspended above the ground at the mate-demate device during operations to place it on top of a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft. A tail cone has been installed over Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines to reduce aerodynamic drag and turbulence during the ferry flight. The device, known as the MDD, is a large gantry-like steel structure used to hoist a shuttle off the ground and position it onto the back of the aircraft, or SCA. The SCA is a Boeing 747 jet, originally manufactured for commercial use, which was modified by NASA to transport the shuttles between destinations on Earth. The SCA designated NASA 905 is assigned to the remaining ferry missions, delivering the shuttles to their permanent public display sites. NASA 905 is scheduled to ferry Discovery to the Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia on April 17, after which the shuttle will be placed on display in the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. For more information on the SCA, visit http://www.nasa.gov/centers/dryden/news/FactSheets/FS-013-DFRC.html. For more information on shuttle transition and retirement activities, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-2167

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As the sun comes up over the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is suspended above the ground at the mate-demate device during ope More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a two-day trip from California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Atlantis are ready to land on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility runway. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during flight. Atlantis returned from California atop the SCA after its May 24 landing at Edwards Air Force Base, concluding mission STS-125. The ferry flight from Edwards Air Force Base began June 1. Touchdown at Kennedy was at 6:53 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2009-3387

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a two-day trip from California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Atlantis are ready to land on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Lan More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Before dawn, at the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour is lowered toward the ground by the sling in the mate/demate device. Visible on Endeavour is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. After Endeavour is on the ground, it will be towed via the two-mile tow-way from the SLF by a diesel-powered tractor to the Orbiter Processing Facility where it will begin preparations for its next mission, STS-127, targeted for May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4013

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Before dawn, at the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour is lowered toward the ground by the sling in the mate/demate de More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the tail cone has been placed in position surrounding the replica main engines on the space shuttle Endeavour. The tail cone covers the main engines in the aft providing aerodynamic stability during the cross-country ferry flight. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Endeavour and Atlantis. Endeavour is being prepared for public display at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Its ferry flight to California is targeted for mid-September. Endeavour was the last space shuttle added to NASA’s orbiter fleet. Over the course of its 19-year career, Endeavour spent 299 days in space during 25 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/ Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-4285

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the tail cone has been placed in position surrounding the replica main engines on the space shuttle Endeavo More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the tail cone is moved into position for attachment to the space shuttle Endeavour. The tail cone covers the main engines in the aft providing aerodynamic stability during the cross-country ferry flight. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Endeavour and Atlantis. Endeavour is being prepared for public display at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Its ferry flight to California is targeted for mid-September. Endeavour was the last space shuttle added to NASA’s orbiter fleet. Over the course of its 19-year career, Endeavour spent 299 days in space during 25 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/ Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-4272

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the tail cone is moved into position for attachment to the space shuttle Endeavour. The tail cone covers th More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After demate from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, Atlantis begins its trek from Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to the Orbiter Processing Facility. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1800

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After demate from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, Atlantis begins its trek from Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to the Orbiter Processing Facility. The orbit More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed back from the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. The orbiter will be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility, where processing will begin for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1798

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed back from the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. The orbiter will be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility, where processi More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians prepare the right side tail cone for buildup on space shuttle Endeavour. The tail cone protects space shuttle main engines during ferry flights on top of the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Endeavour and Atlantis. Endeavour is being prepared for public display at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Its ferry flight to California is targeted for mid-September. Endeavour was the last space shuttle added to NASA’s orbiter fleet. Over the course of its 19-year career, Endeavour spent 299 days in space during 25 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-2833

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians prepare the right side tail cone for buildup on space shuttle Endeavour. More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space Shuttle Discovery’s move from the Vehicle Assembly Building to the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, is complete as the sun comes up over NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A tail cone has been installed over its three replica shuttle main engines to reduce aerodynamic drag and turbulence during its upcoming ferry flight. At the SLF, Discovery will be hoisted onto a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, with the aid of a mate-demate device. The SCA, a modified Boeing 747 jet airliner, is scheduled to ferry Discovery to the Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia on April 17, after which the shuttle will be placed on permanent public display in the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. For more information on shuttle transition and retirement activities, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2012-2100

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space Shuttle Discovery’s move from the Vehicle Assembly Building to the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, is complete as the sun comes up over NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. A t More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians prepare the right side tail cone for buildup on space shuttle Endeavour. The tail cone protects space shuttle main engines during ferry flights on top of the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Endeavour and Atlantis. Endeavour is being prepared for public display at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Its ferry flight to California is targeted for mid-September. Endeavour was the last space shuttle added to NASA’s orbiter fleet. Over the course of its 19-year career, Endeavour spent 299 days in space during 25 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-2838

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians prepare the right side tail cone for buildup on space shuttle Endeavour. More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the tail cone is moved into position for attachment to the space shuttle Endeavour. The tail cone covers the main engines in the aft providing aerodynamic stability during the cross-country ferry flight. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Endeavour and Atlantis. Endeavour is being prepared for public display at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Its ferry flight to California is targeted for mid-September. Endeavour was the last space shuttle added to NASA’s orbiter fleet. Over the course of its 19-year career, Endeavour spent 299 days in space during 25 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/ Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-4271

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 2 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the tail cone is moved into position for attachment to the space shuttle Endeavour. The tail cone covers th More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Before daybreak at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery hovers above the ground at the mate-demate device. Operations are under way to position Discovery on top of a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft in preparation for its departure from Kennedy on Tuesday. A tail cone has been installed over Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines to reduce aerodynamic drag and turbulence during the ferry flight. The device, known as the MDD, is a large gantry-like steel structure used to hoist a shuttle off the ground and position it onto the back of the aircraft, or SCA. The SCA is a Boeing 747 jet, originally manufactured for commercial use, which was modified by NASA to transport the shuttles between destinations on Earth. The SCA designated NASA 905 is assigned to the remaining ferry missions, delivering the shuttles to their permanent public display sites. NASA 905 is scheduled to ferry Discovery to the Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia on April 17, after which the shuttle will be placed on display in the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. For more information on the SCA, visit http://www.nasa.gov/centers/dryden/news/FactSheets/FS-013-DFRC.html. For more information on shuttle transition and retirement activities, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-2012-2177

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Before daybreak at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery hovers above the ground at the mate-demate device. Operations are under More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The tail cone for space shuttle Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines (RSMEs) is being transported from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The tail cone will be installed around Discovery’s RSMEs for protection. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Discovery. Discovery is being prepared for display at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-1028

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The tail cone for space shuttle Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines (RSMEs) is being transported from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a technician monitors the progress as the tail cone is installed around space shuttle Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines for protection. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Discovery. Discovery is being prepared for display at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-1035

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Inside Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a technician monitors the progress as the tail cone is installed around space shuttle Discovery’s three re More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery has been completely backed out of Orbiter Processing Facility-1 in preparation for its move to the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. The aft view of Discovery reveals the tail cone that covers the three replica shuttle main engines. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Discovery, which is being prepared for display at Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. Discovery will remain in high bay 4 of the VAB until its scheduled transport atop a NASA Shuttle Carrier Aircraft modified 747 jet to Dulles International Airport in Virginia on April 17. Discovery will then be transported to the Smithsonian on April 19. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-1705

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery has been completely backed out of Orbiter Processing Facility-1 in preparation for its move to the Vehicle Assembly Buil More

Catching the glow of the late afternoon sun, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) rolls down the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility as it returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC. The ferry flight started in California after the orbiter’s landing more than a week ago at Edwards Air Force Base at the end of mission STS-92. Discovery wears a tail cone protecting its aft nozzles for the ferry flight. Discovery will be demated from the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF and transported to the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1. There it will undergo preparations for its next launch, STS-102, scheduled for February 2001 KSC00padig080

Catching the glow of the late afternoon sun, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) rolls down the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility as it returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC. The ferry flight started in Cali More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The tail cone for space shuttle Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines (RSMEs) arrives at Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The tail cone will be installed around Discovery’s RSMEs for protection. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of shuttle Discovery. Discovery is being prepared for display at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Va. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-2012-1031

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The tail cone for space shuttle Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines (RSMEs) arrives at Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The tail cone w More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians use a crane to pick up the right side tail cone for buildup on space shuttle Endeavour. The tail cone protects space shuttle main engines during ferry flights on top of the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Endeavour and Atlantis. Endeavour is being prepared for public display at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Its ferry flight to California is targeted for mid-September. Endeavour was the last space shuttle added to NASA’s orbiter fleet. Over the course of its 19-year career, Endeavour spent 299 days in space during 25 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-2012-2837

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Inside the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, United Space Alliance technicians use a crane to pick up the right side tail cone for buildup on space shut More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, space shuttle Atlantis is fitted with a tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during its piggyback flight on the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747. Atlantis landed at Edwards on May 24, which concluded mission STS-125, after two landing opportunities at Kennedy were waved off due to weather concerns. Atlantis is being returned to Florida on a ferry flight on the SCA. Atlantis' next assignment is the STS-129 mission, targeted to launch in November 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-3449

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, space shuttle Atlantis is fitted with a tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed toward the Orbiter Processing Facility from the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. The massive Vehicle Assembly Building towers in the background. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1802

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed toward the Orbiter Processing Facility from the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, missio More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour are poised to be towed into the mate/demate device, in the foreground. The device will lift the shuttle and put it back on the ground. Visible on Endeavour is the tail cone, which covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. After making the three-day trip from California, touchdown at Kennedy was at 2:44 p.m. EST. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Endeavour landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California Nov. 30 to end mission STS-126. The return to Kennedy began Dec. 8 and took four days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport, La. Weather conditions en route and in Florida postponed the landing at Kennedy until Dec. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3980

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour are poised to be towed into the mate/demate device, in the foreground. The device will lift the More

Approach & Landing Test (ALT) - Shuttle Free-Flight (FF)-4 Tail Cone Off

Frame of color news-released stills. This was a Tail Cone Off Mission. Stack Enterprise and 747 in flight.

Approach & Landing Test (ALT) - Shuttle Free-Flight (FF)-4 Tail Cone Off - Dryden Flight Research Center (DFRC), CA

Frame of color news-released stills. This was a Tail Cone Off Mission. Crew was made up of Astronauts Engle and Truly. Astronauts Engle, Truly egress Orbiter following flt. DFRC, CA

A member of the South Korean 11th Fighter Wing combat aircraft servicing (CAS) team inspects the tail cone of an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft during Sabre Spirit '89 competition. Sabre Spirit is an annual joint South Korean-U.S. Pacific Air Forces combat ammunition production and CAS exercise

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Subject Operation/Series: SABRE SPIRIT '89 Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Donald S. Mcmichael Releas More

A member of the South Korean 11th Fighter Wing combat aircraft servicing (CAS) team inspects the inside of the tail cone of an F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft during Sabre Spirit '89 competition. Sabre Spirit is an annual joint South Korean-U.S. Pacific Air Forces combat ammunition production and CAS exercise

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Subject Operation/Series: SABRE SPIRIT '89 Base: Osan Air Base Country: Republic Of Korea (KOR) Scene Camera Operator: TSGT Donald S. Mcmichael Releas More

On an orbiter transporter, Columbia is ready for its move to the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-Demate Device (MDD), in the distance at the top of the photo. Seen next to the MDD is the Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft which will carry the orbiter piggyback in a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter can be seen the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or 'glass cockpit.' Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000. KSC-99PP-1137

On an orbiter transporter, Columbia is ready for its move to the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-Demate Device (MDD), in the distance at the top of the photo. Seen next to the MDD is the Boeing 747 Shuttl More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Aboard a transporter, the orbiter Columbia moves past the Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) at the Shuttle Landing Facility. There the orbiter will be mated to the SCA, with the help of a Mate-Demate Device, for a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter is the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or "glass cockpit." Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000 KSC-99pp1139

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Aboard a transporter, the orbiter Columbia moves past the Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) at the Shuttle Landing Facility. There the orbiter will be mated to the SCA, wit More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The orbiter Columbia (foreground) moves under the Mate-Demate Device at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF). The crane seen above it will lift the orbiter so that the Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) in the background can move underneath Columbia, which will then be attached to the back of the SCA for a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter is the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or "glass cockpit." Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000 KSC-99pp1140

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The orbiter Columbia (foreground) moves under the Mate-Demate Device at KSC's Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF). The crane seen above it will lift the orbiter so that the Boeing 747 S More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Aboard a transporter, the orbiter Columbia is moved on the tow-way along the Banana Creek. Columbia is heading to the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-Demate Device where it will be mated to the Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft for a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter can be seen the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or "glass cockpit." Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000 KSC-99pp1138

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Aboard a transporter, the orbiter Columbia is moved on the tow-way along the Banana Creek. Columbia is heading to the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-Demate Device where it w More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The orbiter Columbia rolls out of KSC's Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, bound for the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-Demate Device. At the SLF the orbiter is to be mated to the Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft for a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter can be seen the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or "glass cockpit." Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000 KSC-99pp1134

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The orbiter Columbia rolls out of KSC's Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, bound for the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-Demate Device. At the SLF the orbiter is to be mated More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On an orbiter transporter, Columbia is turned, after rolling out of KSC's Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, for its move to the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-Demate Device. At the SLF the orbiter is to be mated to the Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft for a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter can be seen the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or "glass cockpit." Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000 KSC-99pp1136

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On an orbiter transporter, Columbia is turned, after rolling out of KSC's Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, for its move to the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-Demate Device More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Photographed from overhead, the orbiter Columbia begins to turn after rolling out of KSC's Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, bound for the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-Demate Device. At the SLF the orbiter is to be mated to the Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft for a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter can be seen the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or "glass cockpit." Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000 KSC-99pp1135

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Photographed from overhead, the orbiter Columbia begins to turn after rolling out of KSC's Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, bound for the Shuttle Landing Facility's (SLF) Mate-De More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, the orbiter Columbia takes off into a clear sky on the back of a Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft on a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter can be seen the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or "glass cockpit." Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000 KSC-99padig010

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, the orbiter Columbia takes off into a clear sky on the back of a Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft on a ferry flight to P More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, the orbiter Columbia moves down the runway on the back of a Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft on a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter can be seen the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or "glass cockpit." Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000 KSC-99padig008

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, the orbiter Columbia moves down the runway on the back of a Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft on a ferry flight to Palm More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, the orbiter Columbia takes to the sky on the back of a Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft on a ferry flight to Palmdale, Calif. On the rear of the orbiter can be seen the tail cone, a fairing that is installed over the aft fuselage of the orbiter to decrease aerodynamic drag and buffet when the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft is transporting the orbiter cross-country. It is 36 feet long, 25 feet wide, and 22 feet high. Columbia, the oldest of four orbiters in NASA's fleet, will undergo extensive inspections and modifications in Boeing's Orbiter Assembly Facility during a nine-month orbiter maintenance down period (OMDP), the second in its history. Orbiters are periodically removed from flight operations for an OMDP. Columbia's first was in 1994. Along with more than 100 modifications on the vehicle, Columbia will be the second orbiter to be outfitted with the multifunctional electronic display system, or "glass cockpit." Columbia is expected to return to KSC in July 2000 KSC-99padig009

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center, the orbiter Columbia takes to the sky on the back of a Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft on a ferry flight to Palmdale, C More

In late afternoon, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) rolls down the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility as it returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC. The ferry flight started in California where the orbiter landed more than a week ago at Edwards Air Force Base at the end of mission STS-92. Discovery wears a tail cone protecting its aft nozzles for the ferry flight. Discovery will be demated from the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF and transported to the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1. There it will undergo preparations for its next launch, STS-102, scheduled for February 2001 KSC-00padig079

In late afternoon, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) rolls down the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility as it returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC. The ferry flight started in California where the orbiter l More

In the glow of a late afternoon sun, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC after the orbiter’s California landing at Edwards Air Force Base at the end of mission STS-92. Discovery wears a tail cone protecting its aft nozzles for the ferry flight. Discovery will be demated from the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF and transported to the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1. There it will undergo preparations for its next launch, STS-102, scheduled for February 2001 KSC-00padig078

In the glow of a late afternoon sun, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC after the orbiter’s California landing at Edwards Air Force Base at the end of mission STS-92. Discov More

In late afternoon, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) rolls down the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility as it returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC. The ferry flight started in California where the orbiter landed more than a week ago at Edwards Air Force Base at the end of mission STS-92. Discovery wears a tail cone protecting its aft nozzles for the ferry flight. Discovery will be demated from the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF and transported to the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1. There it will undergo preparations for its next launch, STS-102, scheduled for February 2001 KSC00padig079

In late afternoon, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) rolls down the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility as it returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC. The ferry flight started in California where the orbiter l More

Catching the glow of the late afternoon sun, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) rolls down the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility as it returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC. The ferry flight started in California after the orbiter’s landing more than a week ago at Edwards Air Force Base at the end of mission STS-92. Discovery wears a tail cone protecting its aft nozzles for the ferry flight. Discovery will be demated from the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF and transported to the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1. There it will undergo preparations for its next launch, STS-102, scheduled for February 2001 KSC-00padig080

Catching the glow of the late afternoon sun, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) rolls down the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility as it returns the orbiter Discovery to KSC. The ferry flight started in Cali More

Towed from the Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis heads for the Orbiter Processing Facility (far right), accompanied by a KSC/CCAFS rescue vehicle. In view is the tail cone that orbiters use when being carried piggyback on ferry flights atop a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft. The tail cone protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during flight. Atlantis returned from California atop a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft after its Feb. 19 landing at Edwards Air Force Base, concluding mission STS-98. The ferry flight began March 1; unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Altus AFB, Okla., until it could return to Florida. In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Atlantis will be prepared for mission STS-104, the 10th construction flight to the International Space Station, scheduled to launch June 8 KSC01pp0519

Towed from the Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis heads for the Orbiter Processing Facility (far right), accompanied by a KSC/CCAFS rescue vehicle. In view is the tail cone that orbiters use when being carried More

Viewed from the rear, the orbiter Atlantis heads toward the open doors of the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 after being towed from the Shuttle Landing Facility. The blue lines represent the orbiter’s turning lines into and away from bay 3. The unusual silhouette of the aft section on the orbiter is due to the tail cone covering the aft engines. Atlantis landed Feb. 19 at Edwards Air Force Base concluding mission STS-98. The orbiter returned to Florida on the back of a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, known as a ferry flight, that began March 1. Unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Altus AFB, Okla., for several days until it could return to Florida. Atlantis will be prepared in the OPF for mission STS-104, the 10th construction flight to the International Space Station, scheduled to launch June 8 KSC01padig139

Viewed from the rear, the orbiter Atlantis heads toward the open doors of the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 after being towed from the Shuttle Landing Facility. The blue lines represent the orbiter’s turnin More

This view of Atlantis at the mate/demate device at KSC’s Shuttle Landing Facility shows the tail cone that orbiters use when being carried piggyback on ferry flights atop a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft. The tail cone protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during flight. Atlantis returned from California atop the SCA after its Feb. 19 landing at Edwards Air Force Base concluding mission STS-98. The ferry flight began March 1; unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Altus AFB, Okla., until it could return to Florida. Atlantis will be transported to the Orbiter Processing Facility to prepare it for mission STS-104, the 10th construction flight to the International Space Station, scheduled to launch June 8 KSC01pp0512

This view of Atlantis at the mate/demate device at KSC’s Shuttle Landing Facility shows the tail cone that orbiters use when being carried piggyback on ferry flights atop a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft. The tail co More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Orbiter Atlantis is towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 along the tow-way. In the background is the Vehicle Assembly Building. The unusual silhouette of the aft section on the orbiter is due to the tail cone covering the aft engines. Atlantis landed Feb. 19 at Edwards Air Force Base concluding mission STS-98. The orbiter returned to Florida on the back of a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, known as a ferry flight, that began March 1. Unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Altus AFB, Okla., for several days until it could return to Florida. Atlantis will be prepared in the OPF for mission STS-104, the 10th construction flight to the International Space Station, scheduled to launch June 8 KSC01padig137

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Orbiter Atlantis is towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 along the tow-way. In the background is the Vehicle Assembly Building. The unusual silhouette of the aft section More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An overhead crane in the mate/demate device at the Shuttle Landing Facility lowers the orbiter Atlantis onto its wheels. A tail cone covers the aft engines. Atlantis was removed from the back of a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft after a ferry flight from California. Atlantis landed Feb. 19 at Edwards Air Force Base concluding mission STS-98. The ferry flight began March 1; unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Altus AFB, Okla., until it could return to Florida. Atlantis will be transported to the Orbiter Processing Facility to prepare it for mission STS-104, the 10th construction flight to the International Space Station, scheduled to launch June 8 KSC01padig133

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An overhead crane in the mate/demate device at the Shuttle Landing Facility lowers the orbiter Atlantis onto its wheels. A tail cone covers the aft engines. Atlantis was removed fr More

Towed from the Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis heads for the Orbiter Processing Facility (far right). The large building is the Vehicle Assembly Building, where orbiters are mated to their solid rocket booster-external tank stack prior to rollout to the launch pad. In view is the tail cone that orbiters use when being carried piggyback on ferry flights atop a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft. The tail cone protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during flight. Atlantis returned from California atop a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft after its Feb. 19 landing at Edwards Air Force Base, concluding mission STS-98. The ferry flight began March 1; unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Altus AFB, Okla., until it could return to Florida. In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Atlantis will be prepared for mission STS-104, the 10th construction flight to the International Space Station, scheduled to launch June 8 KSC01pp0518

Towed from the Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis heads for the Orbiter Processing Facility (far right). The large building is the Vehicle Assembly Building, where orbiters are mated to their solid rocket boost More

At the mate/demate device at KSC’s Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis is lowered onto its wheels in preparation for being towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility. This view of Atlantis shows the tail cone that orbiters use when being carried piggyback on ferry flights atop a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft. The tail cone protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during flight. Atlantis returned from California atop the SCA after its Feb. 19 landing at Edwards Air Force Base concluding mission STS-98. The ferry flight began March 1; unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Altus AFB, Okla., until it could return to Florida. In the Orbiter Processing Facility, Atlantis will be prepared for mission STS-104, the 10th construction flight to the International Space Station, scheduled to launch June 8 KSC01pp0513

At the mate/demate device at KSC’s Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis is lowered onto its wheels in preparation for being towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility. This view of Atlantis shows the tail cone that More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Orbiter Atlantis is ready to have the overhead crane removed before transfer to the Orbiter Processing Facility. A tail cone covers the aft engines. Atlantis was removed from the back of a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft after a ferry flight from California. Atlantis landed Feb. 19 at Edwards Air Force Base concluding mission STS-98. The ferry flight began March 1; unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Altus AFB, Okla., until it could return to Florida. Atlantis will be transported to the Orbiter Processing Facility to prepare it for mission STS-104, the 10th construction flight to the International Space Station, scheduled to launch June 8 KSC01padig134

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Orbiter Atlantis is ready to have the overhead crane removed before transfer to the Orbiter Processing Facility. A tail cone covers the aft engines. Atlantis was removed from the b More

The orbiter Atlantis makes the turn to the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 after being towed from the Shuttle Landing Facility. The unusual silhouette of the aft section on the orbiter is due to the tail cone covering the aft engines. Atlantis landed Feb. 19 at Edwards Air Force Base concluding mission STS-98. The orbiter returned to Florida on the back of a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, known as a ferry flight, that began March 1. Unfavorable weather conditions kept it on the ground at Altus AFB, Okla., for several days until it could return to Florida. Atlantis will be prepared in the OPF for mission STS-104, the 10th construction flight to the International Space Station, scheduled to launch June 8 KSC01padig138

The orbiter Atlantis makes the turn to the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 after being towed from the Shuttle Landing Facility. The unusual silhouette of the aft section on the orbiter is due to the tail cone More

US Air Force (USAF) SENIOR AIRMAN (SRA) Michael Cotter, 85th Maintenance Squadron, repairs crack in the tail cone of a HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter while deployed with the 398th Air Expeditionary Group (AEG) to provide personnel recovery and emergency evacuation capability for the Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team (HAST) and the Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team (FAST), at Lungi, Sierra Leone, in support of Joint Task Force (JTF) Liberia

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Subject Operation/Series: JTF LIBERIA Base: Lungi Country: Sierra Leone (SLE) Scene Camera Operator: Tsgt Justin D. Pyle, USAF Release Status: Release More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, with the orbiter Atlantis on its back is towed toward the mate/demate device (background). Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Under the device, the orbiter will be detached from the SCA and lowered onto a transporter. Then Atlantis will be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. It returned to Kennedy atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1760

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, with the orbiter Atlantis on its back is towed toward the mate/demate device (background). Visible on A More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis taxi down the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility runway after landing. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California to end mission STS-117. The return to KSC began July 1 and took three days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Weather conditions over the last leg postponed the return trip until July 3. Atlantis will be removed from the back of the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF. It will then be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd1737

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis taxi down the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility runway after landing. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After landing at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are towed to the mate/demate device that will put the orbiter back on the ground. After a three-day, cross-country trip, the duo touched down at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California to end mission STS-117. The return to KSC began July 1 and included several stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Weather conditions over the last leg postponed the return trip until July 3. After demate, Atlantis will then be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1747

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After landing at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are towed to the mate/demate device that will put th More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are towed across the Shuttle Landing Facility after their landing. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California to end mission STS-117. The return to KSC began July 1 and took three days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Weather conditions over the last leg postponed the return trip until July 3. Atlantis will be removed from the back of the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF. It will then be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd1740

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are towed across the Shuttle Landing Facility after their landing. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After landing at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are towed toward the mate/demate device that will put the orbiter back on the ground. After a three-day, cross-country trip, the duo touched down at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California to end mission STS-117. The return to KSC began July 1 and included several stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Weather conditions over the last leg postponed the return trip until July 3. After demate, Atlantis will then be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1746

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After landing at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are towed toward the mate/demate device that will pu More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis taxi down the runway after landing at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California to end mission STS-117. The return to KSC began July 1 and took three days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Weather conditions over the last leg postponed the return trip until July 3. Atlantis will be removed from the back of the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF. It will then be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-07pd1741

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis taxi down the runway after landing at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After landing at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are towed from the runway. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California to end mission STS-117. The return to KSC began July 1 and included several stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Weather conditions over the last leg postponed the return trip until July 3. Atlantis will be removed from the back of the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF. It will then be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1745

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After landing at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are towed from the runway. Touchdown was at 8:27 a. More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, with the orbiter Atlantis on its back is towed under the mate/demate device. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. The orbiter will be detached from the SCA and lowered onto a transporter. Then Atlantis will be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. It returned to Kennedy atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1762

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, with the orbiter Atlantis on its back is towed under the mate/demate device. Visible on Atlantis is the More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are parked on the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California to end mission STS-117. The return to KSC began July 1 and took three days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Weather conditions over the last leg postponed the return trip until July 3. Atlantis will be removed from the back of the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF. It will then be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd1738

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger Atlantis are parked on the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility. Touchdown was a More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Struts on the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, attach the orbiter Atlantis for the piggyback flight. The plane and orbiter returned from California after three days. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California to end mission STS-117. The return to KSC began July 1 and took three days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Weather conditions over the last leg postponed the return trip until July 3. Atlantis will be removed from the back of the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF. It will then be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd1739

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Struts on the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, attach the orbiter Atlantis for the piggyback flight. The plane and orbiter returned from California after three days. Touchdown More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Media gather at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility to watch the arrival of the orbiter Atlantis on the back of the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California to end mission STS-117. The return to KSC began July 1 and included several stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky. Weather conditions over the last leg postponed the return trip until July 3. Atlantis will be removed from the back of the SCA via the mate/demate device at the SLF. It will then be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-07pd1744

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Media gather at the KSC Shuttle Landing Facility to watch the arrival of the orbiter Atlantis on the back of the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis is detached from the lifting crane and workers prepare the orbiter for towing to the Orbiter Processing Facility where processing will begin for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1794

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis is detached from the lifting crane and workers prepare the orbiter for towing to the Orbiter More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis arrives at the Orbiter Processing Facility from the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1803

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis arrives at the Orbiter Processing Facility from the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission STS More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After demate from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, Atlantis begins its trek from Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to the Orbiter Processing Facility. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1799

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After demate from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, Atlantis begins its trek from Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to the Orbiter Processing Facility. The orbit More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, technicians begin the process of detaching the lifting crane from Atlantis. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. The orbiter will be towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1792

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, technicians begin the process of detaching the lifting crane from Atlantis. Visible on Atlantis is th More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed into the Orbiter Processing Facility, completing its journey from the Shuttle Landing Facility. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1806

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed into the Orbiter Processing Facility, completing its journey from the Shuttle Landing Facility. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the lifting crane begins to lift Atlantis up from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, beneath it. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Technicians monitor the lifting process on a raised platform to the left. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller. KSC-07pd1782

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the lifting crane begins to lift Atlantis up from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, beneath it. V More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed toward the Orbiter Processing Facility from the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. The massive Vehicle Assembly Building can be seen to the left. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1801

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed toward the Orbiter Processing Facility from the Shuttle Landing Facility at Kennedy Space Center. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, missio More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis is lifted up from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA. The SCA is backed away from the mate/demate device. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. The orbiter will be lowered to the ground and then towed to the Orbiter Processing Facility to begin processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller. KSC-07pd1787

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the mate/demate device at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, Atlantis is lifted up from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA. The SCA is backed away from the mate More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed into the Orbiter Processing Facility. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Atlantis arrived at Kennedy Space Center atop the SCA on July 3 after a three-day, cross-country flight due to fuel stops and weather delays. Touchdown was at 8:27 a.m. EDT. Atlantis landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on June 22 to end mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton. KSC-07pd1805

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Atlantis is towed into the Orbiter Processing Facility. The orbiter will undergo processing for its next launch, mission STS-122 in December. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour roll down the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible is the tail cone on Endeavour that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Touchdown at Kennedy was at 2:44 p.m. EST. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Endeavour landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California Nov. 30 to end mission STS-126. The return to Kennedy began Dec. 8 and took four days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport, La. Weather conditions en route and in Florida postponed the landing at Kennedy until Dec. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett KSC-08pd3972

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour roll down the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour roll down the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible is the tail cone on Endeavour that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Touchdown at Kennedy was at 2:44 p.m. EST. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Endeavour landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California Nov. 30 to end mission STS-126. The return to Kennedy began Dec. 8 and took four days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport, La. Weather conditions en route and in Florida postponed the landing at Kennedy until Dec. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3977

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour roll down the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour roll down the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible is the tail cone on Endeavour that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Touchdown at Kennedy was at 2:44 p.m. EST. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Endeavour landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California Nov. 30 to end mission STS-126. The return to Kennedy began Dec. 8 and took four days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport, La. Weather conditions en route and in Florida postponed the landing at Kennedy until Dec. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd3976

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour roll down the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour are ready to land on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible on Endeavour is the tail cone, which covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. Touchdown at Kennedy was at 2:44 p.m. EST. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Endeavour landed at Edwards Air Force Base in California Nov. 30 to end mission STS-126. The return to Kennedy began Dec. 8 and took four days after stops across the country for fuel. The last stop was at Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport, La. Weather conditions en route and in Florida postponed the landing at Kennedy until Dec. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs KSC-08pd3988

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After a three-day trip from California, the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Endeavour are ready to land on the Shuttle Landing Facility runw More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Endeavour is towed by a diesel-powered tractor into the Orbiter Processing Facility, or OPF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible on Endeavour is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. After landing in California to end the STS-126 mission, Endeavour returned to Kennedy on a piggyback flight atop a shuttle carrier aircraft. In the OPF, Endeavour will begin preparations for its next mission, STS-127, targeted for May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd4028

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Endeavour is towed by a diesel-powered tractor into the Orbiter Processing Facility, or OPF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible on Endeavour is the tail c More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Endeavour is towed by a diesel-powered tractor into the Orbiter Processing Facility, or OPF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible on Endeavour is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. After landing in California to end the STS-126 mission, Endeavour returned to Kennedy on a piggyback flight atop a shuttle carrier aircraft. In the OPF, Endeavour will begin preparations for its next mission, STS-127, targeted for May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd4027

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Space shuttle Endeavour is towed by a diesel-powered tractor into the Orbiter Processing Facility, or OPF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible on Endeavour is the tail c More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Before dawn, at the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour has been lifted away from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, underneath. The SCA will be rolled back and Endeavour placed on the ground. Visible on Endeavour is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. The SCA carried the shuttle piggyback from California, where Endeavour landed Nov. 30 to end the STS-126 mission. After Endeavour is on the ground, it will be towed via the two-mile tow-way from the SLF by a diesel-powered tractor to the Orbiter Processing Facility where it will begin preparations for its next mission, STS-127, targeted for May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4009

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Before dawn, at the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour has been lifted away from the shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Before dawn, at the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour is suspended by a sling under the mate/demate device. The shuttle carrier aircraft, or SCA, has rolled away. Endeavour, which retains the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight, will be lowered onto the ground. The SCA carried the shuttle piggyback from California, where Endeavour landed Nov. 30 to end the STS-126 mission. After Endeavour is on the ground, it will be towed via the two-mile tow-way from the SLF by a diesel-powered tractor to the Orbiter Processing Facility where it will begin preparations for its next mission, STS-127, targeted for May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-08pd4011

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Before dawn, at the Shuttle Landing Facility, or SLF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour is suspended by a sling under the mate/demate device. The shu More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Attached to a diesel-powered tractor, space shuttle Endeavour is towed toward the Orbiter Processing Facility, or OPF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible on Endeavour is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. After landing in California to end the STS-126 mission, Endeavour returned to Kennedy on a piggyback flight atop a shuttle carrier aircraft. In the OPF, Endeavour will begin preparations for its next mission, STS-127, targeted for May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd4022

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Attached to a diesel-powered tractor, space shuttle Endeavour is towed toward the Orbiter Processing Facility, or OPF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible on Endeavour i More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Attached to a diesel-powered tractor, space shuttle Endeavour is towed toward the Orbiter Processing Facility, or OPF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible on Endeavour is the tail cone that covers and protects the main engines during the ferry flight. After landing in California to end the STS-126 mission, Endeavour returned to Kennedy on a piggyback flight atop a shuttle carrier aircraft. In the OPF, Endeavour will begin preparations for its next mission, STS-127, targeted for May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-08pd4023

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Attached to a diesel-powered tractor, space shuttle Endeavour is towed toward the Orbiter Processing Facility, or OPF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Visible on Endeavour i More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, a sling in the mate/demate device suspends space shuttle Atlantis above the ground. A Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, will be moved underneath and Atlantis bolted to the top of the modified Boeing 747. A tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during its piggyback flight, can be seen. Atlantis landed at Edwards on May 24, which concluded mission STS-125, after two landing opportunities at Kennedy were waved off due to weather concerns. Atlantis is being returned to Florida on a ferry flight on the SCA. Atlantis' next assignment is the STS-129 mission, targeted to launch in November 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-3456

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, a sling in the mate/demate device suspends space shuttle Atlantis above the ground. A Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, will be moved underneath a More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, is towed beneath space shuttle Atlantis, suspended in the mate/demate device. Atlantis will be bolted to the SCA for a piggyback flight to Florida. A tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during its piggyback flight, can be seen. Atlantis landed at Edwards on May 24, which concluded mission STS-125, after two landing opportunities at Kennedy were waved off due to weather concerns. Atlantis is being returned to Florida on a ferry flight on the SCA. Atlantis' next assignment is the STS-129 mission, targeted to launch in November 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-3457

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, is towed beneath space shuttle Atlantis, suspended in the mate/demate device. Atlanti More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, space shuttle Atlantis is lowered from the mate/demate device toward the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, beneath it. Atlantis will be bolted to the SCA for a piggyback flight to Florida. A tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during its piggyback flight, can be seen. Atlantis landed at Edwards on May 24, which concluded mission STS-125, after two landing opportunities at Kennedy were waved off due to weather concerns. Atlantis is being returned to Florida on a ferry flight on the SCA. Atlantis' next assignment is the STS-129 mission, targeted to launch in November 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-3460

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, space shuttle Atlantis is lowered from the mate/demate device toward the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, beneath it. Atl More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, is moved beneath space shuttle Atlantis, suspended in the mate/demate device. Atlantis will be bolted to the SCA for a piggyback flight to Florida. A tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during its piggyback flight, can be seen. Atlantis landed at Edwards on May 24, which concluded mission STS-125, after two landing opportunities at Kennedy were waved off due to weather concerns. Atlantis is being returned to Florida on a ferry flight on the SCA. Atlantis' next assignment is the STS-129 mission, targeted to launch in November 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-3458

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, is moved beneath space shuttle Atlantis, suspended in the mate/demate device. Atlanti More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, is moved beneath space shuttle Atlantis, suspended in the mate/demate device. Atlantis will be bolted to the SCA for a piggyback flight to Florida. A tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during its piggyback flight, can be seen. Atlantis landed at Edwards on May 24, which concluded mission STS-125, after two landing opportunities at Kennedy were waved off due to weather concerns. Atlantis is being returned to Florida on a ferry flight on the SCA. Atlantis' next assignment is the STS-129 mission, targeted to launch in November 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-3459

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, is moved beneath space shuttle Atlantis, suspended in the mate/demate device. Atlanti More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, space shuttle Atlantis is lowered from the mate/demate device onto the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, beneath it. Atlantis will be bolted to the SCA for a piggyback flight to Florida. A tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during its piggyback flight, can be seen. Atlantis landed at Edwards on May 24, which concluded mission STS-125, after two landing opportunities at Kennedy were waved off due to weather concerns. Atlantis is being returned to Florida on a ferry flight on the SCA. Atlantis' next assignment is the STS-129 mission, targeted to launch in November 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky KSC-2009-3461

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Edwards Air Force Base in California, space shuttle Atlantis is lowered from the mate/demate device onto the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, a modified Boeing 747, beneath it. Atlan More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a two-day trip from California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Atlantis near touchdown on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility runway 15. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during flight. Atlantis returned from California atop the SCA after its May 24 landing at Edwards Air Force Base, concluding mission STS-125. The ferry flight from Edwards Air Force Base began June 1. Touchdown at Kennedy was at 6:53 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3390

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a two-day trip from California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Atlantis near touchdown on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landin More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a two-day trip from California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Atlantis lands on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility runway 15. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during flight. Atlantis returned from California atop the SCA after its May 24 landing at Edwards Air Force Base, concluding mission STS-125. The ferry flight from Edwards Air Force Base began June 1. Touchdown at Kennedy was at 6:53 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3388

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a two-day trip from California, the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, and its piggyback passenger space shuttle Atlantis lands on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facilit More

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a two-day trip from California, the wheels of the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, with space shuttle Atlantis secured to its back, near contact with NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility runway 15. The SCA is a modified Boeing 747 jetliner. Visible on Atlantis is the tail cone, which protects the aft engine area and provides a more efficient aeronautical dimension during flight. Atlantis returned from California atop the SCA after its May 24 landing at Edwards Air Force Base, concluding mission STS-125. The ferry flight from Edwards Air Force Base began June 1. Touchdown at Kennedy was at 6:53 p.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller KSC-2009-3391

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After a two-day trip from California, the wheels of the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, or SCA, with space shuttle Atlantis secured to its back, near contact with NASA Kennedy Space Center's Sh More