CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload canister containing the multi-purpose logistics module Leonardo stands vertically on a transporter outside the Canister Rotation Facility awaiting its move to Launch Pad 39A. The canister will be transferred into the pad's payload changeout room, and its contents, including Leonardo, is set to be transferred into space shuttle Discovery's cargo bay on March 24. The seven-member STS-131 crew will deliver Leonardo, filled with resupply stowage platforms and racks, to the International Space Station. STS-131 will be the 33rd shuttle mission to the station and the 131st shuttle mission overall. Launch is targeted for April 5. For information on the STS-131 mission and crew, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts131_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., workers dressed in clean room attire, known as bunny suits, prepare to close the hatch of the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, for flight. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and the MRM-1, known as Rassvet, to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, MRM-1 will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers guide a space shuttle main engine into position for installation on space shuttle Atlantis for its upcoming STS-132 mission. A main engine is 14 feet long, weighs approximately 7,000 pounds, and is 7.5 feet in diameter at the end of the nozzle. Inspection and maintenance of each of the shuttle's three main engines are an important safety measure and standard procedure between shuttle missions. Atlantis is scheduled to deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and Russian-built Mini Research Module to the International Space Station on STS-132. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the Zarya module. Three spacewalks are planned to store spare components outside the station, including six spare batteries, a boom assembly for the Ku-band antenna and spares for the Canadian Dextre robotic arm extension. A radiator, airlock and European robotic arm for the Russian Multi-purpose Laboratory Module also are payloads on the flight. Launch is targeted for May 14. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians install multi-layer insulation on the Meteoroids and Debris Protective Shield of the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM. The reflective silver mesh is Mylar, which is aluminized to protect hardware aboard the International Space Station from solar thermal radiation. The Leonardo multi-purpose logistics module, or MPLM, is being modified to become the PMM that will carry supplies and critical spare parts to the station aboard space shuttle Discovery’s STS-133 mission. Discovery, targeted to launch Nov. 1, will leave the module behind so it can be used for microgravity experiments in fluid physics, materials science, biology and biotechnology. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., supplies and other cargo have been installed in the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, its hatch is closed for flight, and it is ready to be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and the MRM-1, known as Rassvet, to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, MRM-1 will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the fourth segment of the launch mount for a new mobile launcher, or ML, being constructed to support NASA's future human spaceflight program, from the tractor-trailer on which it was delivered. The construction is taking place in the mobile launcher park site north of Kennedy's Vehicle Assembly Building. The new launcher is 355 feet tall and has multiple platforms for personnel access. The base of the launcher is lighter than space shuttle mobile launcher platforms so the crawler-transporter can pick up the heavier load of the tower and a taller rocket. For information on NASA's future plans, visit http:__www.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the fourth segment of the launch mount for a new mobile launcher, or ML, being constructed to support NASA's future human spaceflight program, is positioned next to the other segments which have arrived. The construction is taking place in the mobile launcher park site north of Kennedy's Vehicle Assembly Building. The new launcher is 355 feet tall and has multiple platforms for personnel access. The base of the launcher is lighter than space shuttle mobile launcher platforms so the crawler-transporter can pick up the heavier load of the tower and a taller rocket. For information on NASA's future plans, visit http:__www.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech Space Operations facility in Titusville, Fla., NASA's GOES-P meteorological satellite is lifted toward a fueling stand. The spacecraft will be loaded with the propellant necessary for orbit maneuvers and the attitude control system. GOES-P, the latest Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite, was developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. GOES-P is designed to watch for storm development and observed current weather conditions on Earth. Launch of GOES-P is targeted for March 1 from Launch Complex 37 aboard a United Launch Alliance Delta IV rocket. For information on GOES-P, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_GOES-P_main_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the transporter has been moved from under space shuttle Discovery as preparations are made for its move into a high bay. In the high bay, Discovery will be attached to its external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters completing the STS-131 shuttle stack. Rollout to Launch Pad 39A is planned for March 2. The seven-member STS-131 crew will deliver the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, filled with resupply stowage platforms and racks, to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Discovery. Work to attach a spare ammonia tank assembly to the station's exterior and return a European experiment from outside the station's Columbus module will be conducted during three spacewalks. STS-131, targeted for launch on April 5, will be the 33rd shuttle mission to the station and the 131st shuttle mission overall. For information on the STS-131 mission and crew, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts131_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral in Florida, STS-132 Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman compares the actual Mini-Research Module to a picture of the module during the crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. CEIT provides the crew with hands-on training and observation of shuttle and flight hardware. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and a Russian-built Mini-Research Module to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the bottom port of the Zarya module and also will carry U.S. pressurized cargo. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission in the program. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, gets a thorough inspection, inside and out, by workers dressed in clean room attire, known as bunny suits, before its hatch is closed for flight. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and the MRM-1, known as Rassvet, to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, MRM-1 will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral in Florida, STS-132 Mission Specialists Michael Good, left, and Steve Bowen get a close-up view of the Mini-Research Module during their crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. CEIT provides the crew with hands-on training and observation of shuttle and flight hardware. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and a Russian-built Mini-Research Module to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the bottom port of the Zarya module and also will carry U.S. pressurized cargo. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission in the program. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., the hatch on the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, is closed for flight. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and the MRM-1, known as Rassvet, to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, MRM-1 will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., workers dressed in clean room attire, known as bunny suits, inspect the seals around the hatch of the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, before the hatch is closed for flight. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and the MRM-1, known as Rassvet, to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, MRM-1 will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Shuttle Main Engine Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare to lift a space shuttle main engine onto a transporter for its move to Orbiter Processing Facility-1, the hangar in which space shuttle Atlantis is being processed for its upcoming STS-132 mission. A main engine is 14 feet long, weighs approximately 7,000 pounds, and is 7.5 feet in diameter at the end of the nozzle. Inspection and maintenance of each of the shuttle's three main engines are an important safety measure and standard procedure between shuttle missions. Atlantis is scheduled to deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and Russian-built Mini Research Module to the International Space Station on STS-132. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the Zarya module. Three spacewalks are planned to store spare components outside the station, including six spare batteries, a boom assembly for the Ku-band antenna and spares for the Canadian Dextre robotic arm extension. A radiator, airlock and European robotic arm for the Russian Multi-purpose Laboratory Module also are payloads on the flight. Launch is targeted for May 14. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare the Heat Rejection Subsystem, or HRS, radiator for installation onto the Express Logistics Carrier-4, or ELC-4. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the ELC-4 filled with external payloads and experiments, as well as the spare radiator and the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:33 p.m. EDT. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov_shuttle. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, preparations are under way to install space shuttle main engine #2 on space shuttle Atlantis for its upcoming STS-132 mission. A main engine is 14 feet long, weighs approximately 7,000 pounds, and is 7.5 feet in diameter at the end of the nozzle. Inspection and maintenance of each of the shuttle's three main engines are an important safety measure and standard procedure between shuttle missions. Atlantis is scheduled to deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and Russian-built Mini Research Module to the International Space Station on STS-132. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the Zarya module. Three spacewalks are planned to store spare components outside the station, including six spare batteries, a boom assembly for the Ku-band antenna and spares for the Canadian Dextre robotic arm extension. A radiator, airlock and European robotic arm for the Russian Multi-purpose Laboratory Module also are payloads on the flight. Launch is targeted for May 14. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Space shuttle Discovery's engines ignite at 6:21 a.m. EDT April 5 for liftoff of the STS-131 mission from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The seven-member crew will deliver the multi-purpose logistics module Leonardo, filled with supplies, a new crew sleeping quarters and science racks that will be transferred to the International Space Station's laboratories. The crew also will switch out a gyroscope on the station’s truss, install a spare ammonia storage tank and retrieve a Japanese experiment from the station’s exterior. STS-131 is the 33rd shuttle mission to the station and the 131st shuttle mission overall. For information on the STS-131 mission and crew, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts131_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a Hyster forklift delivers a space shuttle main engine to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 where it will be installed on space shuttle Atlantis for its upcoming STS-132 mission. A main engine is 14 feet long, weighs approximately 7,000 pounds, and is 7.5 feet in diameter at the end of the nozzle. Inspection and maintenance of each of the shuttle's three main engines are an important safety measure and standard procedure between shuttle missions. Atlantis is scheduled to deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and Russian-built Mini Research Module to the International Space Station on STS-132. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the Zarya module. Three spacewalks are planned to store spare components outside the station, including six spare batteries, a boom assembly for the Ku-band antenna and spares for the Canadian Dextre robotic arm extension. A radiator, airlock and European robotic arm for the Russian Multi-purpose Laboratory Module also are payloads on the flight. Launch is targeted for May 14. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a tractor-trailer delivers the fourth segment of the launch mount for a new mobile launcher, or ML, being constructed to support NASA's future human spaceflight program. The launcher's tower looms over the cab of the tractor. In the background is the 525-foot-tall Vehicle Assembly Building. The construction is taking place in the mobile launcher park site north of Kennedy's Vehicle Assembly Building. The new launcher is 355 feet tall and has multiple platforms for personnel access. The base of the launcher is lighter than space shuttle mobile launcher platforms so the crawler-transporter can pick up the heavier load of the tower and a taller rocket. For information on NASA's future plans, visit http:__www.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The U.S. Navy's Blue Angels perform their tight maneuvers over NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida during the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Space and Air Show held Nov. 8-9. This year’s show brought together the best in military aircraft, such as the F_A-18 Super Hornet and F-16 Fighting Falcon, coupled with precision pilots and veteran astronauts to celebrate spaceflight and aviation. The event included a water rescue demonstration by the 920th Rescue Wing. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., the hatch on the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, is closed for flight by a worker dressed in clean room attire, known as a bunny suit. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and the MRM-1, known as Rassvet, to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, MRM-1 will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers attach a crane to the fourth segment of the launch mount for a new mobile launcher, or ML, being constructed to support NASA's future human spaceflight program, to lift it from the tractor-trailer on which it arrived. The construction is taking place in the mobile launcher park site north of Kennedy's Vehicle Assembly Building. The new launcher is 355 feet tall and has multiple platforms for personnel access. The base of the launcher is lighter than space shuttle mobile launcher platforms so the crawler-transporter can pick up the heavier load of the tower and a taller rocket. For information on NASA's future plans, visit http:__www.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Inside space shuttle Atlantis' crew compartment, a United Space Alliance employee works through an extensive checklist to 'safe' the vehicle for towback from the Shuttle Landing Facility runway to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. After every shuttle landing, about 150 trained workers assist the crew out and then make the vehicle safe for towing atop a large diesel-driven tractor. Atlantis touched down on Runway 33 after 12 days in space, completing the 4.8-million mile STS-132 mission to the International Space Station. Inside the processing facility, Atlantis will be prepared for the unlikely event it is needed as a rescue spacecraft for the final planned shuttle flight, Endeavour's STS-134 mission. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov_shuttle. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In a climate-controlled facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, newly-hatched Loggerhead turtles emerge from their eggs brought from beaches along the northern U.S. Gulf Coast. The eggs will be monitored by biologists and hatchery workers until incubation is complete. The hatchlings will be released at different points along a 100-mile stretch of the Atlantic Ocean shoreline. That includes beaches adjacent to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is located inside Kennedy. The release and relocation work is part of an effort by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the National Park Service, NOAA, FedEx and conservationists to help minimize the risk to this year's sea turtle hatchlings from impacts of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. This plan involves carefully moving an anticipated 700 nests during the next several months. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers use a Hyster forklift to slowly and carefully move a space shuttle main engine through an aperature on space shuttle Atlantis' aft end where it will be installed for the upcoming STS-132 mission. A main engine is 14 feet long, weighs approximately 7,000 pounds, and is 7.5 feet in diameter at the end of the nozzle. Inspection and maintenance of each of the shuttle's three main engines are an important safety measure and standard procedure between shuttle missions. Atlantis is scheduled to deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and Russian-built Mini Research Module to the International Space Station on STS-132. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the Zarya module. Three spacewalks are planned to store spare components outside the station, including six spare batteries, a boom assembly for the Ku-band antenna and spares for the Canadian Dextre robotic arm extension. A radiator, airlock and European robotic arm for the Russian Multi-purpose Laboratory Module also are payloads on the flight. Launch is targeted for May 14. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-130 Mission Specialist Robert Behnken enters the White Room at Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-130 crew are participating in a dress rehearsal for their upcoming launch, known as the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. Behnken will be making his second spaceflight on STS-130. The primary payload for the STS-130 mission is the International Space Station's Tranquility node, a pressurized module that will provide room for many of the station's life support systems. Attached to one end of Tranquility is a cupola, a unique work area with six windows on its sides and one on top. The cupola resembles a circular bay window and will provide a vastly improved view of the station's exterior. The multi-directional view will allow the crew to monitor spacewalks and docking operations, as well as provide a spectacular view of Earth and other celestial objects. The module was built in Turin, Italy, by Thales Alenia Space for the European Space Agency. Launch of STS-130 is targeted for Feb. 7. For information on the STS-130 mission and crew, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts130_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., supplies and other cargo have been installed in the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, its hatch is closed for flight, and it is ready to be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and the MRM-1, known as Rassvet, to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, MRM-1 will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Secured inside a railway car, a nozzle exit cone for a solid rocket booster that will be used on space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 mission is moved from Suspect Siding, a parking area, to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The boosters are manufactured by Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK. EGandG_URS runs Kennedy's railway system for NASA. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Pegasus barge carrying External Tank-136 arrives near the turn basin at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, from NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans. ET-136 will be used to launch space shuttle Atlantis on the STS-132 mission to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for May 14. For more information on the components of the space shuttle and the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Inside space shuttle Atlantis' crew compartment, a United Space Alliance employee begins to power down the vehicle for towback from the Shuttle Landing Facility runway to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. After every shuttle landing, about 150 trained workers assist the crew out and then make the vehicle safe for towing atop a large diesel-driven tractor. Atlantis touched down on Runway 33 after 12 days in space, completing the 4.8-million mile STS-132 mission to the International Space Station. Inside the processing facility, Atlantis will be prepared for the unlikely event it is needed as a rescue spacecraft for the final planned shuttle flight, Endeavour's STS-134 mission. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov_shuttle. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-132 Pilot Tony Antonelli, left, and Commander Ken Ham arrive at the Shuttle Landing Facility to practice touch-and-go landings in Shuttle Training Aircraft. The Shuttle Training Aircraft is a Gulfstream II jet, modified to handle like the space shuttle. The STS-132 crew arrived at Kennedy at 6:11 p.m. EDT for their Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team the opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-132 mission, the six-member crew will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier, or ICC, and the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Atlantis. The ICC is an unpressurized flat bed pallet and keel yoke assembly used to support the transfer of exterior cargo from the shuttle to the space station. The MRM-1, known as Rassvet, is the second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia and will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd shuttle mission overall. Atlantis is targeted to launch on May 14 at 2:19 p.m. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-132 Pilot Tony Antonelli gets settled in the cockpit of a Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice touch-and-go landings. The Shuttle Training Aircraft is a Gulfstream II jet, modified to handle like the space shuttle. The STS-132 crew arrived at Kennedy at 6:11 p.m. EDT for their Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team the opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-132 mission, the six-member crew will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier, or ICC, and the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Atlantis. The ICC is an unpressurized flat bed pallet and keel yoke assembly used to support the transfer of exterior cargo from the shuttle to the space station. The MRM-1, known as Rassvet, is the second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia and will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd shuttle mission overall. Atlantis is targeted to launch on May 14 at 2:19 p.m. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., preparations are under way to close the hatch of the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, for flight. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and the MRM-1, known as Rassvet, to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, MRM-1 will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers inside space shuttle Atlantis' aft end prepare to install space shuttle main engine #2 on Atlantis for its upcoming STS-132 mission. A main engine is 14 feet long, weighs approximately 7,000 pounds, and is 7.5 feet in diameter at the end of the nozzle. Inspection and maintenance of each of the shuttle's three main engines are an important safety measure and standard procedure between shuttle missions. Atlantis is scheduled to deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and Russian-built Mini Research Module to the International Space Station on STS-132. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the Zarya module. Three spacewalks are planned to store spare components outside the station, including six spare batteries, a boom assembly for the Ku-band antenna and spares for the Canadian Dextre robotic arm extension. A radiator, airlock and European robotic arm for the Russian Multi-purpose Laboratory Module also are payloads on the flight. Launch is targeted for May 14. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, two of three space shuttle main engines have been installed on space shuttle Atlantis for its upcoming STS-132 mission. A main engine is 14 feet long, weighs approximately 7,000 pounds, and is 7.5 feet in diameter at the end of the nozzle. Inspection and maintenance of each of the shuttle's three main engines are an important safety measure and standard procedure between shuttle missions. Atlantis is scheduled to deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and Russian-built Mini Research Module to the International Space Station on STS-132. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the Zarya module. Three spacewalks are planned to store spare components outside the station, including six spare batteries, a boom assembly for the Ku-band antenna and spares for the Canadian Dextre robotic arm extension. A radiator, airlock and European robotic arm for the Russian Multi-purpose Laboratory Module also are payloads on the flight. Launch is targeted for May 14. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a technician inspects multi-layer insulation before it is installed on the Meteoroids and Debris Protective Shield of the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM. The reflective silver mesh is Mylar, which is aluminized to protect hardware aboard the International Space Station from solar thermal radiation. The Leonardo multi-purpose logistics module, or MPLM, is being modified to become the PMM that will carry supplies and critical spare parts to the station aboard space shuttle Discovery’s STS-133 mission. Discovery, targeted to launch Nov. 1, will leave the module behind so it can be used for microgravity experiments in fluid physics, materials science, biology and biotechnology. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Secured inside a railway car, a nozzle exit cone for a solid rocket booster that will be used on space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 mission is moved by locomotive no. 2 to the Rotation, Processing and Surge Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The boosters are manufactured by Alliant Techsystems Inc., or ATK. EGandG_URS runs Kennedy's railway system for NASA. The locomotive, one of three at Kennedy, will push the railway car into the facility, necessitating the use of spacer cars behind the locomotive as a safety measure. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a tractor-trailer delivers the fourth segment of the launch mount for a new mobile launcher, or ML, being constructed to support NASA's future human spaceflight program. The construction is taking place in the mobile launcher park site north of Kennedy's Vehicle Assembly Building. The new launcher is 355 feet tall and has multiple platforms for personnel access. The base of the launcher is lighter than space shuttle mobile launcher platforms so the crawler-transporter can pick up the heavier load of the tower and a taller rocket. For information on NASA's future plans, visit http:__www.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Vehicle Assembly Building, or VAB, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Discovery is rotated into a vertical position over the transfer aisle for its move into a high bay. In the high bay, Discovery will be attached to its external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters completing the STS-131 shuttle stack. Rollout to Launch Pad 39A is planned for March 2. The seven-member STS-131 crew will deliver the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, filled with resupply stowage platforms and racks, to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Discovery. Work to attach a spare ammonia tank assembly to the station's exterior and return a European experiment from outside the station's Columbus module will be conducted during three spacewalks. STS-131, targeted for launch on April 5, will be the 33rd shuttle mission to the station and the 131st shuttle mission overall. For information on the STS-131 mission and crew, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts131_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - From inside space shuttle Atlantis' crew compartment, NASA Kennedy Space Center workers are seen awaiting the vehicle's arrival to Orbiter Processing Facility-1. Atlantis is making its slow trek atop a large diesel-driven tractor to the processing facility, after being safed by about 150 trained workers on the Shuttle Landing Facility runway. Atlantis touched down on Runway 33 after 12 days in space, completing the 4.8-million mile STS-132 mission to the International Space Station. Inside the processing facility, Atlantis will be prepared for the unlikely event it is needed as a rescue spacecraft for the final planned shuttle flight, Endeavour's STS-134 mission. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov_shuttle. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. In a secure facility located at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, two Styrofoam boxes containing endangered sea turtle eggs brought from beaches along the northern U.S. Gulf Coast are being monitored in a climate-controlled room until incubation is complete. Jane Provancha, lead biologist at the hatchery is heading-up the project at Kennedy. After hatching, the turtles will be set free on a Kennedy Space Center_Canaveral National Seashore beach. The Northern Gulf Rescue Operations relocation and release work effort is supported by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the National Park Service, NOAA, FedEx and conservationists to help minimize the risk to this year's sea turtle hatchlings from impacts of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral in Florida, STS-132 Pilot Tony Antonelli, left, and Mission Specialist Michael Good discuss the Mini-Research Module behind them during their crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. CEIT provides the crew with hands-on training and observation of shuttle and flight hardware. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and a Russian-built Mini-Research Module to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the bottom port of the Zarya module and also will carry U.S. pressurized cargo. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission in the program. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a large crane will assist in the removal of Launch Pad 39B's fixed service structure FSS. Removal of the pad's rotating service structure RSS continues. The FSS and RSS were designed to support the unique needs of the Space Shuttle Program. In 2009, the pad was no longer needed for the shuttle program, so it is being restructured for future use. Its new design will feature a 'clean pad' for rockets to come with their own launcher, making it more versatile for a number of vehicles. The transformation also includes the refurbishment of the liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen tanks and the upgrade of about 1.3 million feet of cable. The new lightning protection system, which was in place for the October 2009 launch of Ares I-X, will remain. For information on NASA's future plans, visit www.nasa.gov. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Inside space shuttle Atlantis' crew compartment, a United Space Alliance employee closes the vehicle's hatch for towback from the Shuttle Landing Facility runway to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. After every shuttle landing, about 150 trained workers assist the crew out and then make the vehicle safe for towing atop a large diesel-driven tractor. Atlantis touched down on Runway 33 after 12 days in space, completing the 4.8-million mile STS-132 mission to the International Space Station. Inside the processing facility, Atlantis will be prepared for the unlikely event it is needed as a rescue spacecraft for the final planned shuttle flight, Endeavour's STS-134 mission. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov_shuttle. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility-1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle main engine #2 is nearly in position for installation on space shuttle Atlantis for its upcoming STS-132 mission. A main engine is 14 feet long, weighs approximately 7,000 pounds, and is 7.5 feet in diameter at the end of the nozzle. Inspection and maintenance of each of the shuttle's three main engines are an important safety measure and standard procedure between shuttle missions. Atlantis is scheduled to deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and Russian-built Mini Research Module to the International Space Station on STS-132. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the Zarya module. Three spacewalks are planned to store spare components outside the station, including six spare batteries, a boom assembly for the Ku-band antenna and spares for the Canadian Dextre robotic arm extension. A radiator, airlock and European robotic arm for the Russian Multi-purpose Laboratory Module also are payloads on the flight. Launch is targeted for May 14. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane in the Space Station Processing Facility is attached to the Heat Rejection Subsystem, or HRS, radiator for installation onto the Express Logistics Carrier-4, or ELC-4. Space shuttle Discovery and its STS-133 crew will deliver the ELC-4 filled with external payloads and experiments, as well as the spare radiator and the Permanent Multipurpose Module, or PMM, to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 1 at 4:33 p.m. EDT. For more information visit, www.nasa.gov_shuttle. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral in Florida, members of the STS-132 crew receive instruction on the design and operation of the docking mechanism for the Mini-Research Module during their crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman, right, asks a question of his instructor as Commander Ken Ham, left, and Mission Specialist Michael Good look on. CEIT provides the crew with hands-on training and observation of shuttle and flight hardware. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and a Russian-built Mini-Research Module to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the bottom port of the Zarya module and also will carry U.S. pressurized cargo. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission in the program. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Astrotech payload processing facility at Port Canaveral in Florida, members of the STS-132 crew receive instruction on the design and operation of the docking mechanism for the Mini-Research Module during their crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. At left is the instructor. From center in the blue flight suits are Mission Specialist Piers Sellers, Commander Ken Ham, and Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman. Mission Specialist Michael Good looks on behind them. CEIT provides the crew with hands-on training and observation of shuttle and flight hardware. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 mission will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier and a Russian-built Mini-Research Module to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, the module will be permanently attached to the bottom port of the Zarya module and also will carry U.S. pressurized cargo. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd space shuttle mission in the program. Launch is targeted for May 14. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload canister containing the multi-purpose logistics module Leonardo is nestled in the payload changeout room at Launch Pad 39A. Located on the pad's rotating service structure, the room is an enclosed, environmentally controlled area that supports payload delivery and servicing at the pad and attaches to the shuttle's cargo bay for vertical payload installation. The contents of the canister, including Leonardo, is set to be transferred into space shuttle Discovery's cargo bay on March 24. The seven-member STS-131 crew will deliver Leonardo, filled with resupply stowage platforms and racks, to the International Space Station. STS-131 will be the 33rd shuttle mission to the station and the 131st shuttle mission overall. Launch is targeted for April 5. For information on the STS-131 mission and crew, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts131_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In a secure, climate-controlled facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, newly-hatched Loggerhead turtles emerge from their eggs brought from beaches along the northern U.S. Gulf Coast. The eggs will be monitored by biologists and hatchery workers until incubation is complete. The hatchlings will be released at different points along a 100-mile stretch of the Atlantic Ocean shoreline. That includes beaches adjacent to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is located inside Kennedy. The release and relocation work is part of an effort by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the National Park Service, NOAA, FedEx and conservationists to help minimize the risk to this year's sea turtle hatchlings from impacts of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. This plan involves carefully moving an anticipated 700 nests during the next several months. Photo credit: NASA_Troy Cryder