1990 Group 13 Astronaut Candidates (ASCANs) Susan J. Helms (foreground) and William G. Gregory, wearing helmets and flight suits, swim in pool at Elgin Air Force Base (AFB) in Pensacola, Florida, during water survival exercises. The training familiarized the candidates with survival techniques necessary in the event of a water landing. ASCANs participated in the exercises from 08-14-90 through 08-17-90.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Pilot James Kelly makes a speedy exit from Space Shuttle Discovery as part of emergency egress training from the launch pad. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

1990 Group 13 Astronaut Candidate (ASCAN) Susan J. Helms, wearing helmet with oxygen mask and inflated life jacket, is assisted by training instructor during water survival exercises at Elgin Air Force Base (AFB) in Pensacola, Florida. Helms looks on as the instructor adjusts her parachute harness. When ready, Helms will be dropped from the harness into the pool (in background) to simulate a water landing after T-38 ejection. ASCANs participated in the exercises from 08-14-90 through 08-17-90.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Mission Specialists Wendy Lawrence (front), Charles Camarda and Andrew Thomas make a speedy exit on the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure. Emergency egress is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During emergency egress training at the pad, STS-121 crew members Piers Sellers, Stephanie Wilson and Thomas Reiter, all mission specialists, learn how to exit the slidewire basket on the ground. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including emergency egress training from the pad. They will also suit up in their orange flight suits for a simulated countdown to launch. Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During emergency egress training at the pad, STS-121 Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson prepares to jump to the ground from the slidewire basket in the landing area. Helping her above are Mission Specialists Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including emergency egress training from the pad. They will also suit up in their orange flight suits for a simulated countdown to launch. Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Commander Eileen Collins (left) climbs into a slidewire basket used for emergency egress from the Fixed Service Structure at the pad. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Pilot James Kelly adjusts his glove before climbing into a slidewire basket used for emergency egress from the Fixed Service Structure at the pad. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown and emergency egress practice from the Fixed Service Structure on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 crew members stop at the 225-foot level for a unique view. Seen here is Pilot James Kelly. This culminates the pre-launch training known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Mission Specialist Wendy Lawrence arrives at the slidewire basket area used for emergency egress from the Fixed Service Structure at the pad. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Commander Eileen Collins (center) adjusts her glove before climbing into a slidewire basket used for emergency egress from the Fixed Service Structure at the pad. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Mission Specialists Soichi Noguchi (left) and Stephen Robinson make a speedy exit on the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure. Emergency egress is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Mission Specialist Charles Camarda reaches for the release of the slidewire basket, used for emergency egress from the Fixed Service Structure. Behind him are Mission Specialists Andrew Thomas and Wendy Lawrence. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-121 Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter prepares to leap from the slidewire basket during training on emergency egress procedures from the launch pad. Above him is Mission Specialist Piers Sellers; at lower left is Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including emergency egress training from the pad. They will also suit up in their orange flight suits for a simulated countdown to launch. Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39B, STS-104 Commander Steven W. Lindsey (left) smiles after completing emergency egress training in the slidewire basket he is in. At right is Pilot Charles O. Hobaugh. They and other crew members are taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the emergency egress training and a simulated countdown exercise. The launch of Atlantis on mission STS-104 is scheduled July 12. The mission is the 10th flight to the International Space Station and carries the Joint Airlock Module and High Pressure Gas Assembly

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-121 Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak prepares to leap from the slidewire basket during training on emergency egress procedures from the launch pad. At left is Mission Specialist Michael Fossum. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including emergency egress training from the pad. They will also suit up in their orange flight suits for a simulated countdown to launch. Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Mission Specialists Soichi Noguchi (left) and Stephen Robinson climb into a slidewire basket used for emergency egress from the Fixed Service Structure at the pad. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Commander Eileen Collins talks to Pilot James Kelly at the slidewire basket area used for emergency egress from the Fixed Service Structure at the pad. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown and emergency egress practice from the Fixed Service Structure on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 crew members stop at the 225-foot level for a unique view. Seen here is Mission Specialist Wendy Lawrence. This culminates the pre-launch training known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Mission Specialist Stephen Robinson (left) and Soichi Noguchi talk at the slidewire basket area used for emergency egress from the Fixed Service Structure at the pad. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Mission Specialists Soichi Noguchi (left) and Charles Camarda wait for their turn in the slidewire basket used for emergency egress from the Fixed Service Structure at the pad. This is part of the pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-89 Mission Specialist Salizhan Sharipov of the Russian Space Agency stands in a slidewire basket on the emergency egress system at KSC’s Launch Pad 39A, as Jim Bell, USA senior instructor for technical training, explains the egress system to him and to STS-89 Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas, Ph.D, at right. Dr. Thomas will transfer to the Russian Space Station Mir and succeed David Wolf, M.D., who will return to Earth aboard Endeavour. The seven astronauts assigned to the eighth Shuttle-Mir docking flight are completing Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. A dress rehearsal for launch, the TCDT includes emergency egress training at the launch pad and culminates with a simulated countdown. The Space Shuttle Endeavour is undergoing preparations for liftoff, scheduled for Jan. 22. Dr. Thomas will live and work on Mir until June

NASA commercial crew astronauts Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken attend a training class for International Space Station ingress and egress procedures in the Space Vehicle Mock-Up Facility at Johnson Space Center in Houston. Hurley and Behnken are both assigned to the SpaceX Crew Dragon’s first crewed flight.

NASA commercial crew astronaut Doug Hurley attends a training class for International Space Station ingress and egress procedures in the Space Vehicle Mock-Up Facility at Johnson Space Center in Houston. Hurley is assigned to the SpaceX Crew Dragon’s first crewed flight.

JSC2005-E-32704 (1 Aug. 2005) --- Astronauts Joan E. Higginbotham (left), STS-116 mission specialist, and Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer, attired in training versions of the shuttle launch and entry suit, pose for a photo as they await the start of an emergency egress training session in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at the Johnson Space Center. Williams will join Expedition 14 in progress and serve as a flight engineer after traveling to the station on space shuttle mission STS-116.

Crew members and backup members for NASA’s Artemis II mission and teams from the agency’s Exploration Ground Systems Program participate in emergency egress training at Launch Complex 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Teams trained with the mine-resistant ambush protected vehicles, or MRAPs, inside the launch pad terminus area, where the emergency egress baskets carrying the astronauts and flight crew will arrive following their safe exit from the mobile launcher. Originally designed for military applications, the 45,000-pound MRAP offers a mobile bunker for astronauts and ground crews in the unlikely event they must get away from the launch pad quickly in an emergency.

During emergency egress training at the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure, Pilot Mark Polansky settles in the slidewire basket while Commander Ken Cockrell reaches for the release handle. The basket slides along a 1200-foot wire to the landing zone below and nearby bunker. The crew has been taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the simulated countdown and emergency egress training at the pad. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST

During emergency egress training at the Launch Pad, Commander Ken Cockrell gets help adjusting his helmet. The crew is practicing using the slidewire baskets that slide along 1200-foot wire to the landing zone below and nearby bunker. The crew has been taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the simulated countdown and emergency egress training at the pad. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST

During emergency egress training at the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure, Mission Specialist Marsha Ivins take her place in the slidewire basket while Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam reaches for the release handle. The basket slides along a 1200-foot wire to the landing zone below and nearby bunker. The crew has been taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the simulated countdown and emergency egress training at the pad. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST

JSC2001-01466 (18 May 2001) --- Astronaut Carl E. Walz, Expedition Four flight engineer, lowers himself from a simulated shuttle in trouble during an emergency egress training session in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at the Johnson Space Center (JSC).

S73-27770 (1 May 1973) --- Astronaut Jack R. Lousma, Skylab 3 pilot, sits at a table with fellow crewmen and the flight surgeon prior to water egress training at the Johnson Space Center, Houston. Photo credit: NASA

At the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure, the STS-98 crew watches a slidewire basket drop to the landing zone. The basket was released by Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam (center); Pilot Mark Polansky is at left. The basket is part of emergency egress equipment from the launch pad. Others (not shown) taking part in the emergency egress training are Commander Ken Cockrell and Mission Specialists Thomas Jones and Marsha Ivins. The crew is at KSC to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown at the pad. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m

At the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure, the STS-98 crew watches a slidewire basket drop to the landing zone. The basket was released by Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam (center); Pilot Mark Polansky is at left. The basket is part of emergency egress equipment from the launch pad. Others (not shown) taking part in the emergency egress training are Commander Ken Cockrell and Mission Specialists Thomas Jones and Marsha Ivins. The crew is at KSC to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown at the pad. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- On an upper level of the Pad 39A fixed service structure, the STS-118 crew get instructions from a trainer about using the emergency egress system. The crew members seen here are, from left, Commander Scott Kelly and Mission Specialists Barbara R. Morgan, Tracy Caldwell and Dave Williams. Morgan joined NASA's Teacher in Space program in 1985 and was selected as an astronaut in 1998. Williams represents the Canadian Space Agency. The crew is at Kennedy for training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. TCDT activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- On an upper level of the Pad 39A fixed service structure, the STS-118 crew members look at the slidewire basket that is part of the emergency egress system. On the left are Commander Scott Kelly and Mission Specialists Barbara R. Morgan, Tracy Caldwell, Dave Williams and Alvin Drew. On the right is Mission Specialist Rick Mastracchio. Morgan joined NASA's Teacher in Space program in 1985 and was selected as an astronaut in 1998. Williams represents the Canadian Space Agency. The crew is at Kennedy for training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. TCDT activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- On an upper level of the Pad 39A fixed service structure, the STS-118 crew members get directions about using the slidewire basket that is part of the emergency egress system. At right, Mission Specialist Tracy Caldwell identifies the pull lever to release the basket. At far left is Mission Specialist Dave Williams, who represents the Canadian Space Agency. At center is Mission Specialist Alvin Drew. The crew is at Kennedy for terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, training activities. Those activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. NASA/George Shelton

JSC2005-E-39940 (20 Sept. 2005) --- Astronaut Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer, participates in a mission training session in one of the high fidelity trainers/mockups in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at Johnson Space Center. Williams, attired in a training version of the shuttle launch and entry suit, is seated on the middeck for an emergency egress training session. Williams will join Expedition 14 in progress and serve as a flight engineer after traveling to the station on space shuttle mission STS-116. United Space Alliance (USA) suit technician Drew Billingsley assisted Williams.

JSC2002-02022 (13 November 2002) --- Astronauts Soichi Noguchi (left), STS-114 mission specialist; Edward T. Lu, Expedition Seven flight engineer; cosmonauts Yuri I. Malenchenko, Expedition Seven mission commander; and Alexander Y. Kaleri, Expedition Seven flight engineer; participate in mission training in one of the full-scale trainers in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at the Johnson Space Center (JSC). Attired in training versions of the shuttle launch and entry suit, the four are seated on the middeck for an emergency egress training session. Noguchi represents Japan’s National Space Development Agency (NASDA). Malenchenko and Kaleri represent Rosaviakosmos.

JSC2005-E-17432 (28 April 2005) --- Astronaut Steven G. MacLean, STS-115 mission specialist representing the Canadian Space Agency, wearing a training version of the shuttle launch and entry suit, rehearses emergency egress procedures in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at Johnson Space Center. The long tube in the foreground is a training version of the launch escape pole which is now carried onboard for all shuttle flights. Crew trainer David Pogue assisted MacLean.

JSC2001-01552 (24 May 2001) --- An unidentified member of the STS-109 crew uses a device called a Sky genie to simulate rappelling from a troubled shuttle in a training session in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at the Johnson Space Center (JSC). The mockup is called the Full Fuselage Trainer (FFT). This exercise trains the crewmembers for procedures to follow in egressing a troubled shuttle on the ground. STS-109 will be the 108th shuttle flight and the fourth Hubble Space Telescope (HST) servicing mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After the conclusion of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, STS-114 Commander Eileen Collins briefly talks to media about the importance of the TCDT as pre-launch training. The TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

Three members of the STS-102 crew hurry to the slidewire baskets for emergency egress training. The crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. STS-102 is the eighth construction flight to the International Space Station, with Space Shuttle Discovery carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo. In addition, the Expedition Two crew will be on the mission, to replace Expedition One, who will return to Earth with Discovery. Launch on mission STS-102 is scheduled for March 8

ISS043E019025 (03/18/2015) --- Safety training never ends onboard the International Space Station. This photo in the U.S. Laboratory on Mar. 18, 2015 was taken during Emergency Egress Drill On-Board Training (OBT) with the Expedition 43 crew. Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko (rear) and ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti (middle), both flight engineers, are shown with astronaut Terry Virts, Commander (front) during the important emergency drill.

Three members of the STS-102 crew hurry to the slidewire baskets for emergency egress training. The crew is at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. STS-102 is the eighth construction flight to the International Space Station, with Space Shuttle Discovery carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo. In addition, the Expedition Two crew will be on the mission, to replace Expedition One, who will return to Earth with Discovery. Launch on mission STS-102 is scheduled for March 8

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission crew arrives at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida in a Shuttle Training Aircraft. The astronauts will be taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities that include equipment familiarization and emergency egress training, and culminates in a simulated launch countdown aboard Endeavour. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On the Fixed Service Structure at Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 Mission Specialists Stephen Robinson (left) and Soichi Noguchi (right) have climbed into the slidewire basket, emergency egress equipment from the pad. Watching them (in center) are Pilot James Kelly and Mission Specialist Andrew Thomas. Noguchi is with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The training is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. It provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in simulated countdown activities. The test ends with a mock launch countdown culminating in a simulated main engine cutoff. The crew also spends time undergoing emergency egress training exercises at the launch pad. STS-114 is designated the first Return to Flight mission, with a launch window extending from July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On the Fixed Service Structure at Launch Pad 39B, the STS-114 crew gets instructions on using the slidewire basket, emergency egress equipment from the pad. Crew members seen here are (from left) Mission Specialist Wendy Lawrence, Commander Eileen Collins and Mission Specialist Soichi Noguchi, who is with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The training is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. It provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in simulated countdown activities. The test ends with a mock launch countdown culminating in a simulated main engine cutoff. The crew also spends time undergoing emergency egress training exercises at the launch pad. STS-114 is designated the first Return to Flight mission, with a launch window extending from July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On the Fixed Service Structure at Launch Pad 39B, the STS-114 crew gets instructions on using the slidewire basket, emergency egress equipment from the pad. Crew members seen here are (from left) Mission Specialists Andrew Thomas and Charles Camarda, Commander Eileen Collins, and Mission Specialists Soichi Noguchi and Wendy Lawrence. Noguchi is with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The training is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. It provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in simulated countdown activities. The test ends with a mock launch countdown culminating in a simulated main engine cutoff. The crew also spends time undergoing emergency egress training exercises at the launch pad. STS-114 is designated the first Return to Flight mission, with a launch window extending from July 13 to July 31.

S98-09501 (6-14-98) --- Astronaut Eileen M. Collins participates in a simulation of an emergency egress from a shuttle during preparations for her role as mission commander for next year's STS-93 flight. Collins was joined by four other crewmembers for the training session, held in and around the deep Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL)pool at the Johnson Space Center's Sonny Carter Training Center.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39B, dressed in their launch and entry suits, STS-104 Mission Specialists (left to right) James F. Reilly, Janet Lynn Kavandi and Michael L. Gernhardt make their way from Space Shuttle Atlantis to the slidewire baskets, part of the emergency egress system at the pad. They and other crew members are taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the emergency egress training and a simulated countdown exercise. The launch of Atlantis on mission STS-104 is scheduled July 12. The mission is the 10th flight to the International Space Station and carries the Joint Airlock Module and High Pressure Gas Assembly

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Mission Specialist Dave Williams is introduced to the press during a media interview before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Williams represents the Canadian Space Agency. TCDT activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Mission Specialist Tracy Caldwell reacts to the waiting press during a media interview before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Those activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Pilot Charlie Hobaugh waits to begin a media interview before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Those activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Mission Specialist Rick Mastracchio waits to begin a media interview before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Those activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Commander Scott Kelly stands inside an M-113 armored personnel carrier before his driving session as part of emergency exit training. He and other crew members are at Kennedy for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT activities include the M-113 training, payload familiarization, emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-118 payload aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour includes the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug.7. NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Pilot Charlie Hobaugh stands inside an M-113 armored personnel carrier before his driving session as part of emergency exit training. He and other crew members are at Kennedy for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT activities include the M-113 training, payload familiarization, emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-118 payload aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour includes the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug.7. NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew waits to begin a media interview before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Those activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Mission Specialist Tracy Caldwell reacts to the waiting press during a media interview before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Those activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Commander Scott Kelly talks to the media at a press conference before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Those activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Commander Scott Kelly waits to begin a media interview before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Those activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- On the slidewire basket bunker area of Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Commander Scott Kelly talks to the media before the crew's morning training activities in the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. TCDT activities include M-113 training, payload familiarization, the emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew stands inside an M-113 armored personnel carrier before his driving session, as part of emergency exit training. He and other crew members are at Kennedy for the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT activities include the M-113 training, payload familiarization, emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-118 payload aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour includes the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug.7. NASA/George Shelton

S94-40073 (23 June 1994) --- Wearing training versions of the launch and entry suits (LES), astronauts Ellen Ochoa, payload commander, and Joseph P. Tanner, mission specialist, await the beginning of a training session on emergency egress procedures. The STS-66 crew participated in the training, held in the Johnson Space Center's (JSC) Shuttle Mockup and Integration Laboratory. Ochoa and Tanner will join three other NASA astronauts and one international mission specialist aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis in support of the Atmospheric Laboratory for Applications and Science (ATLAS-3) flight scheduled for November of this year.

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-92 Mission Specialists (left to right) Peter J.K. “Jeff” Wisoff, Leroy Chiao, Koichi Wakata of Japan and William S. McArthur Jr. finish emergency egress training in the slidewire baskets behind them. The training is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities that also include a simulated countdown. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-92 Mission Specialists (left to right) Peter J.K. “Jeff” Wisoff, Leroy Chiao, Koichi Wakata of Japan and William S. McArthur Jr. finish emergency egress training in the slidewire baskets behind them. The training is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities that also include a simulated countdown. STS-92 is scheduled to launch Oct. 5 at 9:38 p.m. EDT on the fifth flight to the International Space Station. It will carry two elements of the Space Station, the Integrated Truss Structure Z1 and the third Pressurized Mating Adapter. The mission is also the 100th flight in the Shuttle program

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Julie Payette smiles after her success in driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. Payette represents the Canadian Space Agency. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During emergency egress training at the pad, the STS-121 crew poses for a photo on the upper level. From left are Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter, Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak and Piers Sellers. Behind them can be seen the top of a solid rocket booster and the external tank, part of the configuration for Space Shuttle Discovery. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including emergency egress training from the pad. They will also suit up in their orange flight suits for a simulated countdown to launch. Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During emergency egress training at the pad, the STS-121 crew pose for a photo on the upper level in front of Space Shuttle Discovery's external tank. From left are Mission Specialists Piers Sellers, Thomas Reiter and Lisa Nowak, Commander Steven Lindsey, Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialist Michael Fossum. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including emergency egress training from the pad. They will also suit up in their orange flight suits for a simulated countdown to launch. Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Julie Payette takes her turn practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. Payette represents the Canadian Space Agency. Behind her is Pilot Doug Hurley. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- Jim Bell, USA senior instructor for technical training, explains the emergency egress system at KSC’s Launch Pad 39A to, left to right, STS-89 Mission Specialists Andrew Thomas, Ph.D., who will transfer to the Russian Space Station Mir, and Bonnie Dunbar, Ph.D., as well as to Commander Terrence Wilcutt. Dr. Thomas will succeed David Wolf, M.D., who will return to Earth aboard Endeavour. The seven astronauts assigned to the eighth Shuttle-Mir docking flight are completing Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities at KSC. A dress rehearsal for launch, the TCDT includes emergency egress training at the launch pad and culminates with a simulated countdown. The Space Shuttle Endeavour is undergoing preparations for liftoff, scheduled for Jan. 22. Dr. Thomas will live and work on Mir until June

JSC2001-E-06401 (27 February 2001) --- Astronaut James F. Reilly, mission specialist, rehearses emergency egress procedures in the Systems Integration Facility at the Johnson Space Center (JSC). The long tube at left is a training version of the launch escape pole which is now carried onboard for all shuttle flights. The STS-104 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) represents the Space Shuttle Atlantis' first flight using a new engine and is targeted for a liftoff no earlier than June 14, 2001.

JSC2001-E-06422 (27 February 2001) --- Astronaut James F. Reilly, mission specialist, rehearses emergency egress procedures in the Systems Integration Facility at the Johnson Space Center (JSC). The long tube at left is a training version of the launch escape pole which is now carried onboard for all shuttle flights. The STS-104 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) represents the Space Shuttle Atlantis' first flight using a new engine and is targeted for a liftoff no earlier than June 14, 2001.

STS-98 Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam, Marsha Ivins and Thomas Jones try out the three-person slidewire basket, part of the equipment used for emergency egress from the launch pad. The basket slides along a 1200-foot wire to the landing zone below and nearby bunker. The crew has been taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the simulated countdown and emergency egress training at the pad. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST

The STS-98 crew listens to instructions on use of the slidewire basket, part of emergency egress equipment from the launch pad. At the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure are Mission Specialists Marsha Ivins and Thomas Jones, Commander Ken Cockrell, Pilot Mark Polansky and Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam. The crew is at KSC to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown at the pad. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m

The STS-98 crew listens to instructions on use of the slidewire basket, part of emergency egress equipment from the launch pad. At the 195-foot level of the Fixed Service Structure are Mission Specialists Marsha Ivins and Thomas Jones, Commander Ken Cockrell, Pilot Mark Polansky and Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam. The crew is at KSC to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown at the pad. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 crew members take part in a mock countdown as pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Seen here in their seats on the flight deck are Mission Specialists Stephen Robinson (front) and Soichi Noguchi (back). TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 crew members take part in a mock countdown as pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Seen here in their seats on the flight deck are Commander Eileen Collins (left) and Pilot James Kelly (right).TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-114 crew members take part in a mock countdown as pre-launch training included in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Seen here in their seats on the flight deck are Commander Eileen Collins (left) and Pilot James Kelly (right). TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Tom Marshburn smiles after successfully driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the mock countdown and emergency egress practice from the Fixed Service Structure on Launch Pad 39B, STS-114 crew members come together for a group photo on the 225-foot level. Pictured, from left, are Mission Specialists Andrew Thomas, Charles Camarda and Wendy Lawrence, Commander Eileen Collins, Mission Specialists Stephen Robinson and Soichi Noguchi, and Pilot James. Kelly. This culminates the pre-launch training known as Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. TCDT provides the crew of each mission an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. STS-114 is the first Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. The launch window extends July 13 through July 31.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Christopher Cassidy is ready to take the wheel to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Dave Wolf takes the wheel of the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Driving the M-113 is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Commander Mark Polansky smiles after practicing driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Commander Mark Polansky takes his turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Pilot Doug Hurley smiles after practicing driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Tim Kopra is happy to have successfully driven the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Dave Wolf poses for a photograph after driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Pilot Doug Hurley drives the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113, which will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Tom Marshburn takes his turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-127 mission are taking turns driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

JSC2000-04070 (12 May 2000) --- Two cosmonauts assigned to ISS Expedition One participate in shuttle descent and egress training on the mid deck of the Crew Compartment Trainer (CCT) at the Johnson Space Center's systems integration facility. Pictured in the burnt-orange pressure suits are Yuri Gidzenko (center), Soyuz commander; and Sergei Krikalev, flight engineer. At left is astronaut Andrew S.W. Thomas who assisted the crew members in this training session. Gidzenko, Krikalev and astronaut William Shepherd (not in picture), mission commander, were training for descent procedures, both routine and contigency measures, in the session. Their stay aboard ISS will conclude when they return to Earth aboard a shuttle.

S65-14457 (23 Feb. 1965) --- Both members of the Gemini-Titan 3 prime crew egress through the left, or command pilot's, hatch into the Gulf of Mexico during specialized training in egress from the Gemini spacecraft. Astronaut Virgil I. Grissom, the command pilot, has already climbed into a raft, as astronaut John W. Young, pilot, egresses from the spacecraft.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Christopher Cassidy practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. Other crew members seated behind him are Mission Specialist Julie Payette, Dave Wolf, Tom Marshburn and Pilot Doug Hurley, who will take their turns at driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Fully dressed in their launch and entry suits, STS-98 Mission Specialists Thomas Jones (left), Marsha Ivins and Robert Curbeam practice a speedy exit from the Fixed Service Structure during emergency egress training. They are heading for the slidewire baskets that slide along a 1200-foot wire to the landing zone below and nearby bunker. The crew has been taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include the simulated countdown and emergency egress training at the pad. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the International Space Station, carrying as payload the U.S. Lab Destiny, a key element in the construction of the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – STS-127 Mission Specialist Tim Kopra practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, which is part of the training on emergency egress procedures. Other crew members are seated behind him and will take their turns at driving the M-113. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, which includes the emergency egress training and equipment familiarization. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Dave Williams, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, is eager to start the simulated launch countdown that concludes the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The STS-118 crew has been at Kennedy for the TCDT activities that also include M-113 training, payload familiarization and emergency egress training at the pad. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. --In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A, STS-118 Mission Specialist Rick Mastracchio is eager to enter Space Shuttle Endeavour for a simulated launch countdown, the culmination of terminal countdown demonstration test activities. The White Room is situated at the end of the orbiter access arm and provides entry into the orbiter. TCDT activities also include M-113 training, payload familiarization and emergency egress training at the pad. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Alvin Drew gets a close look at the payloads installed in Space Shuttle Endeavour. The STS-118 crew has been at Kennedy for terminal countdown demonstration test activities that also include M-113 training, emergency egress training at the pad and a simulated launch countdown. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Dave Williams, who represents the Canadian Space Agency, completes suitup before the simulated launch countdown that concludes the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The STS-118 crew has been at Kennedy for the TCDT activities that also include M-113 training, payload familiarization and emergency egress training at the pad. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- STS-118 Mission Specialist Barbara R. Morgan finishes suitup for the simulated launch countdown that concludes the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Morgan joined NASA's Teacher in Space program in 1985 and was selected as an astronaut in 1998. The STS-118 crew has been at Kennedy for the TCDT activities that also include M-113 training, payload familiarization and emergency egress training at the pad. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and Space Shuttle Endeavour will carry a payload including the S5 truss, a SPACEHAB module and external stowage platform 3. STS-118 is targeted for launch on Aug. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton