STS-27 Atlantis, Orbiter Vehicle (OV) 104, is suspended via overhead crane, attached at four points, in the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). Below OV-104 on the mobile launcher platform are the external tank (ET) and solid rocket boosters (SRBs). During ET/SRB mating operations, OV-104 will be mounted atop the ET.
S88-29076 (10 Jan 1988) --- KSC employees work together to carefully guide a 7,000 pound main engine into the number one position in Discovery's aft compartment. Because of the engine's weight and size, special handling equipment is needed to perform the installation. Discovery is currently being prepared for the upcoming STS-26 mission in bay 1 of the Orbiter Processing Facility. This engine, 2019, arrived at KSC on Jan. 6 and was installed Jan. 10. The other two engines are scheduled to be installed later this month. The shuttle's three main liquid fueled engines provide the main propulsion for the orbiter vehicle. The cluster of three engines operate in parallel with the solid rocket boosters during the initial ascent.
A worker in the Payload Changeout Room, Launch Pad 39A, moves the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism away from the open doors of Space Shuttle Endeavour’s payload bay. The PGHM helped move the STS-100 mission payload into the bay. Visible above and behind the worker is the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Raffaello, which carries six system racks and two storage racks for the U.S. Lab. Above Raffaello is the Canadian robotic arm, the SSRMS. Capable of handling large payloads and assisting with docking the Space Shuttle, the SSRMS is crucial to the continued assembly of the International Space Station. Launch of mission STS-100 is scheduled for April 19 at 2:41 p.m. EDT
Crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) is underneath the mobile launcher May 31, 2018, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Three lifts will be performed to practice lifting procedures, validate interface locations, confirm the weight of the mobile launcher, and develop a baseline for modal analysis. The mobile launcher is equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals, which will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion. CT-2 has been upgraded to handle the weight of the mobile launcher with SLS and Orion atop. Exploration Ground Systems is preparing the ground systems necessary to support the SLS and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 and deep space missions.
S82-41171 (29 Nov. 1982) --- NASA?s tracking and data relay satellite (TDRS) is gently mated to its inertial upper stage (IUS), which will propel the satellite to a higher geosynchronous orbit after it is ejected from the Challenger?s cargo bay during STS-6. Another TDRS will be placed in orbit on a later shuttle mission. The two will provide communications between orbiting shuttle mission craft and the ground, resulting in increased real-time communication and eliminating the need for much of NASA?s extensive world-wide system of ground tracking stations. A more distant plan is to launch other TDRS to be used for commercial telecommunications and for handling peak loads. Photo credit: NASA
Crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) is being moved under the mobile launcher May 31, 2018, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Three lifts will be performed to practice lifting procedures, validate interface locations, confirm the weight of the mobile launcher, and develop a baseline for modal analysis. The mobile launcher is equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals, which will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion. CT-2 has been upgraded to handle the weight of the mobile launcher with SLS and Orion atop. Exploration Ground Systems is preparing the ground systems necessary to support the SLS and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 and deep space missions.
Crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) is moved under the mobile launcher May 31, 2018, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Three lifts will be performed to practice lifting procedures, validate interface locations, confirm the weight of the mobile launcher, and develop a baseline for modal analysis. The mobile launcher is equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals, which will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion. CT-2 has been upgraded to handle the weight of the mobile launcher with SLS and Orion atop. Exploration Ground Systems is preparing the ground systems necessary to support the SLS and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 and deep space missions.
Preparations are underway May 31, 2018, to move crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) under the mobile launcher at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Three lifts will be performed to practice lifting procedures, validate interface locations, confirm the weight of the mobile launcher, and develop a baseline for modal analysis. The mobile launcher is equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals, which will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion. CT-2 has been upgraded to handle the weight of the mobile launcher with SLS and Orion atop. Exploration Ground Systems is preparing the ground systems necessary to support the SLS and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 and deep space missions.
Crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) is underneath the mobile launcher May 31, 2018, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Three lifts were performed to practice lifting procedures, validate interface locations, confirm the weight of the mobile launcher, and develop a baseline for modal analysis. The mobile launcher is equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals, which will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion. CT-2 has been upgraded to handle the weight of the mobile launcher with SLS and Orion atop. Exploration Ground Systems is preparing the ground systems necessary to support the SLS and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 and deep space missions.
Preparations are underway May 31, 2018, to move crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) under the mobile launcher at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Three lifts will be performed to practice lifting procedures, validate interface locations, confirm the weight of the mobile launcher, and develop a baseline for modal analysis. The mobile launcher is equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals, which will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion. CT-2 has been upgraded to handle the weight of the mobile launcher with SLS and Orion atop. Exploration Ground Systems is preparing the ground systems necessary to support the SLS and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 and deep space missions.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Changeout Room at Launch Pad 39A, technicians work the Payload Ground-Handling Mechanism hook instrumentation unit to move the U.S. Lab Destiny out of the payload canister and into the PCR. The Lab will then be transferred to the payload bay of Atlantis for mission STS-98. Destiny, a key element in the construction of the International Space Station is designed for space science experiments. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST
Teams from NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and Space Launch System (SLS) practice SLS booster stacking with pathfinders inside Kennedy Space Center’s Vehicle Assembly Building on Nov. 19, 2019. Using overhead cranes and booster handling activities, the teams focused on procedures for mating a center segment onto a cylinder that simulated another segment. The exercise was performed around the clock, operating three shifts per day. SLS will launch the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
iss072e157843 (Nov. 11, 2024) --- The Canadarm2 robotic arm with its fine-tuned robotic hand Dextre, or the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator, attached is pictured after maneuvering and installing scientific hardware on the International Space Station. Dextre is remotely operated by robotics controllers on the ground providing precise handling capabilities reducing the need for spacewalks giving astronauts more time to conduct science.
Teams from NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and Space Launch System (SLS) practice SLS booster stacking with pathfinders inside Kennedy Space Center’s Vehicle Assembly Building on Nov. 19, 2019. Using overhead cranes and booster handling activities, the teams focused on procedures for mating a center segment onto a cylinder that simulated another segment. The exercise was performed around the clock, operating three shifts per day. SLS will launch the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
Teams from NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and Space Launch System (SLS) practice SLS booster stacking with pathfinders inside Kennedy Space Center’s Vehicle Assembly Building on Nov. 19, 2019. Using overhead cranes and booster handling activities, the teams focused on procedures for mating a center segment onto a cylinder that simulated another segment. The exercise was performed around the clock, operating three shifts per day. SLS will launch the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians facilitate the transfer the STS-106 payload to Atlantis on Launch Pad 39-B using the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism (PGHM). The payload within the SPACEHAB module is shown just after being loaded in the payload bay of Atlantis. The PGHM (pronounced pigem) is located inside the Payload Changeout Room (PCR) of each shuttle launch pad Rotating Service Structure. The PGHM removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the orbiter. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift
Teams from NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and Space Launch System (SLS) practice SLS booster stacking with pathfinders inside Kennedy Space Center’s Vehicle Assembly Building on Nov. 19, 2019. Using overhead cranes and booster handling activities, the teams focused on procedures for mating a center segment onto a cylinder that simulated another segment. The exercise was performed around the clock, operating three shifts per day. SLS will launch the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Changeout Room at Launch Pad 39A, technicians work the Payload Ground-Handling Mechanism hook instrumentation unit to move the U.S. Lab Destiny out of the payload canister and into the PCR. The Lab will then be transferred to the payload bay of Atlantis for mission STS-98. Destiny, a key element in the construction of the International Space Station is designed for space science experiments. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Changeout Room at Launch Pad 39A, a technician works switches on the Payload Ground-Handling Mechanism hook instrumentation unit that will move the U.S. Lab Destiny out of the payload canister and into the PCR. Destiny will then be transferred to the payload bay of Atlantis for mission STS-98. Destiny, a key element in the construction of the International Space Station is designed for space science experiments. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST
STS084-358-009 (15-24 May 1997) --- Astronaut Eileen M. Collins, STS-84 pilot, handles what appears to be an oversized space toy but is actually a lengthy roll of paper margin, separated from the main roll of messages just transmitted to the flight crew from ground controllers in Houston, Texas. Seated at the commander's station, astronaut Charles J. Precourt, commander, checks the latest transmission from a message device called Thermal Imaging Printing System (TIPS).
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Payload Changeout Room, or PCR, on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers use the payload ground-handling mechanism to transfer space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 mission payload from the payload canister. At left is seen the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo. The payload later will be installed in Endeavour's payload bay. Endeavour is targeted for launch on Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers are removing the flame trench deflector that sits below and between the left and right crawler track panels. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http:__go.nasa.gov_groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA_Jim Grossman
Teams from NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and Space Launch System (SLS) practice SLS booster stacking with pathfinders inside Kennedy Space Center’s Vehicle Assembly Building on Nov. 19, 2019. Using overhead cranes and booster handling activities, the teams focused on procedures for mating a center segment onto a cylinder that simulated another segment. The exercise was performed around the clock, operating three shifts per day. SLS will launch the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Payload Changeout Room, or PCR, on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers use the payload ground-handling mechanism to transfer space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 mission payload from the payload canister. The payload is the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo and the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier. The payload later will be installed in Endeavour's payload bay. Endeavour is targeted for launch on Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
Teams from NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and Space Launch System (SLS) practice SLS booster stacking with pathfinders inside Kennedy Space Center’s Vehicle Assembly Building on Nov. 19, 2019. Using overhead cranes and booster handling activities, the teams focused on procedures for mating a center segment onto a cylinder that simulated another segment. The exercise was performed around the clock, operating three shifts per day. SLS will launch the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- From the Payload Changeout Room on Launch Pad 39A, workers move the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo via the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism (right) toward Discovery’s payload bay. Leonardo contains supplies and equipment for the International Space Station and its resident crew. Discovery is scheduled to launch Aug. 9, 2001, on mission STS-105
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the flame trench deflector that was located below and between the left and right crawlerway tracks has been removed. Pad B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-106 payload within the SPACEHAB Module is shown after being loaded onto Atlantis on Launch Pad 39-B using the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism (PGHM). The PGHM (pronounced pigem) is located inside the Payload Changeout Room (PCR) of each shuttle launch pad’s Rotating Service Structure. The PGHM removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the orbiter. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians facilitate the transfer the STS-106 payload to Atlantis on Launch Pad 39-B using the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism (PGHM). The circular structure shown is the docking adapter. The PGHM (pronounced pigem) is located inside the Payload Changeout Room (PCR) of each shuttle launch pad’s Rotating Service Structure. The PGHM removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the orbiter. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-106 payload within the SPACEHAB Module is shown after being loaded onto Atlantis on Launch Pad 39-B using the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism (PGHM). The PGHM (pronounced pigem) is located inside the Payload Changeout Room (PCR) of each shuttle launch pad’s Rotating Service Structure. The PGHM removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the orbiter. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload ground handling mechanism in the Payload Changeout Room on Launch Pad 39A is viewed from the rear as it transfers the STS-125 mission payload into space shuttle Atlantis’ payload bay. STS-125 is the fifth and final shuttle servicing mission for NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. The payload comprises four carriers holding various equipment for the mission. Atlantis is targeted to launch Oct. 14 on the 11-day mission. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Changeout Room at Launch Pad 39A, a technician works switches on the Payload Ground-Handling Mechanism hook instrumentation unit that will move the U.S. Lab Destiny out of the payload canister and into the PCR. Destiny will then be transferred to the payload bay of Atlantis for mission STS-98. Destiny, a key element in the construction of the International Space Station is designed for space science experiments. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A, the payload ground-handling mechanism moves the multi-purpose logistics module Leonardo toward space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. Leonardo is the primary payload on Discovery's STS-128 mission to the International Space Station. Discovery will deliver 33,000 pounds of equipment to the station, including science and storage racks, a freezer to store research samples, a new sleeping compartment and the COLBERT treadmill. Launch is targeted for late August. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Payload Changeout Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker uses the payload ground handling mechanism to install the payload for the STS-125 mission into space shuttle Atlantis’ payload bay. STS-125 is the fifth and final shuttle servicing mission for NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. The payload comprises four carriers holding various equipment for the mission. Atlantis is targeted to launch Oct. 14 on the 11-day mission. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the flame trench deflector located below and between the left and right crawlerway tracks has been removed. Pad B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker monitors use of the payload ground-handling mechanism in the Payload Changeout Room, or PCR, to aid the transfer of the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo (center) and the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier (bottom) from the payload canister into the PCR. Later, the payload will be installed in Endeavour's payload bay. Endeavour is targeted for launch on Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis
ISS028-E-030758 (22 Aug. 2011) --- Robonaut 2 ? the first dexterous humanoid robot in space ? is pictured in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station shortly after it was powered up and teams on the ground sent power to the robot for the first time in space. The red flags tied around R2?s wrists are to remind the crew not to use its arms as handles.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the flame trench deflector that was located below and between the left and right crawlerway tracks has been removed. Pad B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman
Teams from NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and Space Launch System (SLS) practice SLS booster stacking with pathfinders inside Kennedy Space Center’s Vehicle Assembly Building on Nov. 19, 2019. Using overhead cranes and booster handling activities, the teams focused on procedures for mating a center segment onto a cylinder that simulated another segment. The exercise was performed around the clock, operating three shifts per day. SLS will launch the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
Teams from NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and Space Launch System (SLS) practice SLS booster stacking with pathfinders inside Kennedy Space Center’s Vehicle Assembly Building on Nov. 19, 2019. Using overhead cranes and booster handling activities, the teams focused on procedures for mating a center segment onto a cylinder that simulated another segment. The exercise was performed around the clock, operating three shifts per day. SLS will launch the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians facilitate the transfer the STS-106 payload to Atlantis on Launch Pad 39-B using the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism (PGHM). The payload within the SPACEHAB module is shown just after being loaded in the payload bay of Atlantis. The PGHM (pronounced pigem) is located inside the Payload Changeout Room (PCR) of each shuttle launch pad Rotating Service Structure. The PGHM removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the orbiter. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 39A, workers in the payload changeout room use the payload ground-handling mechanism to transfer the mission STS-118 payload into the payload bay on Space Shuttle Endeavour. The payload includes the S5 truss, the SPACEHAB module and the external stowage platform 3. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug.7. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller
Teams from NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems and Space Launch System (SLS) practice SLS booster stacking with pathfinders inside Kennedy Space Center’s Vehicle Assembly Building on Nov. 19, 2019. Using overhead cranes and booster handling activities, the teams focused on procedures for mating a center segment onto a cylinder that simulated another segment. The exercise was performed around the clock, operating three shifts per day. SLS will launch the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Technicians facilitate the transfer the STS-106 payload to Atlantis on Launch Pad 39-B using the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism (PGHM). The circular structure shown is the docking adapter. The PGHM (pronounced pigem) is located inside the Payload Changeout Room (PCR) of each shuttle launch pad’s Rotating Service Structure. The PGHM removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the orbiter. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During the transfer the STS-106 payload to Atlantis on Launch Pad 39-B, a technician turns a switch to move the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism (PGHM). The mechanism is located inside the Payload Changeout Room (PCR) of each shuttle launch pad’s Rotating Service Structure. The PGHM (pronounced pigem) removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the orbiter. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers use the payload ground-handling mechanism in the Payload Changeout Room, or PCR, to aid the transfer of the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo (center) and the Lightweight Multi-Purpose Experiment Support Structure Carrier (bottom) from the payload canister into the PCR. Later, the payload will be installed in Endeavour's payload bay. Endeavour is targeted for launch on Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- During the transfer the STS-106 payload to Atlantis on Launch Pad 39-B, a technician turns a switch to move the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism (PGHM). The mechanism is located inside the Payload Changeout Room (PCR) of each shuttle launch pad’s Rotating Service Structure. The PGHM (pronounced pigem) removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the orbiter. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the flame trench deflector that was located below and between the left and right crawlerway tracks has been removed. Pad B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On Launch Pad 39A, workers in the payload changeout room monitor the payload ground-handling mechanism as it transfers the mission STS-118 payload into the payload bay on Space Shuttle Endeavour. The payload includes the S5 truss, the SPACEHAB module and the external stowage platform 3. The mission is the 22nd flight to the International Space Station and is targeted for launch on Aug.7. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller
NASA’s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft successfully completed its “aluminum bird” systems test at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California. With NASA pilot James Less in the cockpit, the X-59 team simulated flight conditions from takeoff to landing – without ever leaving the ground. The test verified how the aircraft’s hardware and software work together, responding to pilot inputs and handling injected system failures. This milestone confirms the aircraft’s readiness for the next series of tests leading to first flight.
NASA’s X-59 quiet supersonic research aircraft successfully completed its “aluminum bird” systems test at Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works facility in Palmdale, California. With NASA pilot James Less in the cockpit, the X-59 team simulated flight conditions from takeoff to landing – without ever leaving the ground. The test verified how the aircraft’s hardware and software work together, responding to pilot inputs and handling injected system failures. This milestone confirms the aircraft’s readiness for the next series of tests leading to first flight.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload ground-handling mechanism, known as the PGHM, is retracted after installing the payloads in space shuttle Atlantis' payload bay, at right, for the STS-125 mission. The payload includes the Flight Support System, or FSS, carrier with the Soft Capture Mechanism; the Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment, or MULE, carrier with the Science Instrument Command and Data Handling Unit, or SIC&DH; the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier, or ORUC, with the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph, or COS, and an IMAX 3D camera. Atlantis' crew will service NASA's Hubble Space Telescope for the fifth and final time. The flight will include five spacewalks during which astronauts will refurbish and upgrade the telescope with state-of-the-art science instruments. As a result, Hubble's capabilities will be expanded and its operational lifespan extended through at least 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload ground-handling mechanism, known as the PGHM, is retracted after installing the payloads in space shuttle Atlantis' payload bay for the STS-125 mission. Seen here are the service platforms of the PGHM. The payload includes the Flight Support System, or FSS, carrier with the Soft Capture Mechanism; the Multi-Use Lightweight Equipment, or MULE, carrier with the Science Instrument Command and Data Handling Unit, or SIC&DH; the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier, or ORUC, with the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph, or COS, and an IMAX 3D camera. Atlantis' crew will service NASA's Hubble Space Telescope for the fifth and final time. The flight will include five spacewalks during which astronauts will refurbish and upgrade the telescope with state-of-the-art science instruments. As a result, Hubble's capabilities will be expanded and its operational lifespan extended through at least 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
Josh Waters (left), ground test conductor, and Teresa Annulis, assistant ground test conductor, participate in an Artemis I launch countdown simulation inside the Launch Control Center’s Firing Room 1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Under the leadership of Launch Director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson, nearly 100 engineers from Orion, Space Launch System (SLS) and the agency’s Exploration Ground Systems came together on Feb. 3, 2020, to work through a series of simulated challenges, as well as a final countdown procedure. During these exercises, different issues were introduced to familiarize the team with launch day operations, while providing them with an opportunity to practice how they would handle those issues in real-time. Artemis I will be the first integrated test flight of the Orion spacecraft and SLS rocket – the system that will ultimately land the first woman and the next man on the Moon.
NASA Orbiter Transition & Retirement team member Tom Goebel monitors the installation of "rain covers" over space shuttle Enterprise’s vent door openings ahead of the expected rain at Washington Dulles International Airport, Saturday, April 21, 2012, in Sterling, Va. Enterprise, the first orbiter built for the Space Shuttle Program, was used primarily for ground and flight tests within the atmosphere. The initial testing period named Approach and Landing Test (ALT) included a flight on February 18, 1977 atop a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) to measure structural loads and ground handling and braking characteristics of the mated system. Enterprise will go on permanent display at the Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum in New York in June. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
Ground support technicians check out the treads on crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) as the vehicle moves slowly along the crawlerway toward the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crawler took a trip to the Pad A/B split to test upgrades recently completed that will allow the giant vehicle to handle the load of the agency's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program oversaw upgrades to the 50-year-old CT-2. New generators, gear assemblies, jacking, equalizing and leveling (JEL) hydraulic cylinders, roller bearings and brakes were installed, and other components were upgraded to prepare for Exploration Mission 1.
A ground support technician checks the giant treads on crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) as the vehicle moves slowly along the crawlerway toward the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crawler took a trip to the pad A/B split to test upgrades recently completed that will allow the giant vehicle to handle the load of the agency's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program oversaw upgrades to the 50-year-old CT-2. New generators, gear assemblies, jacking, equalizing and leveling (JEL) hydraulic cylinders, roller bearings and brakes were installed, and other components were upgraded to prepare for Exploration Mission 1.
Michael Dennison, left, and James Ross, ground cooling system engineers at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, participate in an Artemis I launch countdown training simulation on Feb. 3, 2020. Under the leadership of Launch Director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson, a team of nearly 100 engineers from Orion, Space Launch System (SLS) and NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems came together in the Launch Control Center’s Firing Room 1 to work through a series of simulated challenges, as well as a final countdown procedure. During these exercises, different issues were introduced to familiarize the team with launch day operations, while providing them with an opportunity to practice how they would handle those issues in real-time. Artemis I will be the first integrated test flight of the Orion spacecraft and SLS rocket – the system that will ultimately land the first woman and the next man on the Moon.
The space shuttle Enterprise is seen mated on top of the NASA 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) at Washington Dulles International Airport, Saturday, April 21, 2012, in Sterling, Va. Space Shuttle Transition and Retirement engineers Saturday completed the final steps to ready Space Shuttle Enterprise for its flight to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport while managers continue to evaluate the expected weather that has postponed delivery past Monday. Enterprise, the first orbiter built for the Space Shuttle Program, was used primarily for ground and flight tests within the atmosphere. The initial testing period named Approach and Landing Test (ALT) included a flight on February 18, 1977 atop a Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) to measure structural loads and ground handling and braking characteristics of the mated system. Enterprise will go on permanent display at the Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum in New York in June. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)
A construction worker monitors the progress as crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) lifts the mobile launcher up a few inches from its support posts June 1, 2018, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Three lifts were performed to practice lifting procedures, validate interface locations, confirm the weight of the mobile launcher, and develop a baseline for modal analysis. The mobile launcher is equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals, which will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion. The lift helped to test the capability of the upgraded CT-2 to handle the weight of the mobile launcher. Exploration Ground Systems is preparing the ground systems necessary to support the SLS and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 and deep space missions.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians use a special handling device to bring an ogive panel closer for installation on the Orion ground test vehicle in Vehicle Assembly Building high bay 4. The ogive panels enclose the Orion spacecraft and attach to the Launch Abort System. The test vehicle is being used by the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program for path finding operations, including simulated manufacturing, assembly and stacking procedures. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry astronauts to destinations not yet explored by humans, including an asteroid and Mars. It will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities. The first unpiloted test flight of Orion is scheduled to launch in 2014 atop a Delta IV rocket and in 2017 on NASA’s Space Launch System rocket. For more information, visit www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: Kim Shiflett
A ground support technician checks the new hydraulic cylinders on crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) as the vehicle moves slowly along the crawlerway toward the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crawler took a trip to the Pad A/B split to test upgrades recently completed that will allow the giant vehicle to handle the load of the agency's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program oversaw upgrades to the 50-year-old CT-2. New generators, gear assemblies, jacking, equalizing and leveling (JEL) hydraulic cylinders, roller bearings and brakes were installed, and other components were upgraded to prepare for Exploration Mission 1.
A construction worker monitors the progress as crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) lifts the mobile launcher up a few inches from its support posts June 1, 2018, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Three lifts were performed to practice lifting procedures, validate interface locations, confirm the weight of the mobile launcher, and develop a baseline for modal analysis. The mobile launcher is equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals, which will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion. The lift helped to test the capability of the upgraded CT-2 to handle the weight of the mobile launcher with SLS and Orion atop. Exploration Ground Systems is preparing the ground systems necessary to support the SLS and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 and deep space missions.
Ground support technicians walks alongside crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) as the vehicle moves slowly along the crawlerway toward the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crawler took a trip to the Pad A/B split to test upgrades recently completed that will allow the giant vehicle to handle the load of the agency's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program oversaw upgrades to the 50-year-old CT-2. New generators, gear assemblies, jacking, equalizing and leveling (JEL) hydraulic cylinders, roller bearings and brakes were installed, and other components were upgraded to prepare for Exploration Mission 1.
A ground support technician walks alongside crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) as the vehicle moves slowly along the crawlerway toward the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crawler took a trip to the Pad A/B split to test upgrades recently completed that will allow the giant vehicle to handle the load of the agency's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program oversaw upgrades to the 50-year-old CT-2. New generators, gear assemblies, jacking, equalizing and leveling (JEL) hydraulic cylinders, roller bearings and brakes were installed, and other components were upgraded to prepare for Exploration Mission 1.
A ground support technician walks alongside crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) as the vehicle moves slowly along the crawlerway toward the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crawler took a trip to the Pad A/B split to test upgrades recently completed that will allow the giant vehicle to handle the load of the agency's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program oversaw upgrades to the 50-year-old CT-2. New generators, gear assemblies, jacking, equalizing and leveling (JEL) hydraulic cylinders, roller bearings and brakes were installed, and other components were upgraded to prepare for Exploration Mission 1.
Inside the Launch Control Center’s Firing Room 1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Ryan Bowers, a ground launch sequencer support engineer, participates in an Artemis I launch countdown simulation on Feb. 3, 2020. Under the leadership of Launch Director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson, a team of nearly 100 engineers from Orion, Space Launch System (SLS) and NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems came together to work through a series of simulated challenges, as well as a final countdown procedure. During these exercises, different issues were introduced to familiarize the team with launch day operations, while providing them with an opportunity to practice how they would handle those issues in real-time. Artemis I will be the first integrated test flight of the Orion spacecraft and SLS rocket – the system that will ultimately land the first woman and the next man on the Moon.
Workers watch as crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) lifts the mobile launcher up a few inches from its support posts June 1, 2018, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Three lifts were performed to practice lifting procedures, validate interface locations, confirm the weight of the mobile launcher, and develop a baseline for modal analysis. The mobile launcher is equipped with a number of lines, called umbilicals, which will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Orion. The lift helped to test the capability of the upgraded CT-2 to handle the weight of the mobile launcher. Exploration Ground Systems is preparing the ground systems necessary to the SLS and Orion spacecraft for Exploration Mission-1 and deep space missions.
The second of two Tail Service Mast Umbilicals is lifted by crane for installation on the 0-level deck of the mobile launcher on July 27, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 35-foot-tall umbilical will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket core stage aft section and provide liquid hydrogen and electrical cable connections to the core stage engine section to support propellant handling during prelaunch operations. The installation brings Exploration Ground Systems one step closer to supporting prelaunch operations for the agency's SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft on Exploration Mission-1 and deep space destinations.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the payload changeout room, or PCR, on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers make small adjustments to the payload ground-handling mechanism, or PGHM, that will remove the cargo from the payload canister. The cargo comprises four carriers holding various equipment for the STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope. The PGHM removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the shuttle. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift. Atlantis is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, all of the old crawler track panels have been removed from the surface and construction workers are repairing the concrete surface and catacomb roof below. Framing for the new crawler track panels is being installed in repaired areas of the pad surface. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
A crane is used to lift up the first of two Tail Service Mast Umbilicals for installation on the 0-level deck of the mobile launcher on July 12, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 35-foot-tall umbilical will connect to NASA's Space Launch System rocket core stage aft section and provide liquid oxygen and electrical cable connections to the core stage engine section to support propellant handling during prelaunch operations. The installation brings Exploration Ground Systems one step closer to supporting prelaunch operations for the agency's SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft on Exploration Mission-1 and deep space destinations.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an aerial view shows the progress as construction workers remove crawler track panels from the pad’s surface. The concrete surface beneath the panels and the catacomb roof below will be inspected for water damage and repaired. There are 176 panels, each weighing about 30,000 pounds that will be removed. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http:__go.nasa.gov_groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA_Dimitri Gerondidakis
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, nearly all of the crawler track panels on the pad’s surface have been removed. The concrete surface beneath the panels and the catacomb roof below will be inspected for water damage and repaired. There are 176 panels, each weighing about 30,000 pounds that will be removed. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http:__go.nasa.gov_groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA_Jim Grossman
Crawler-transport 2 (CT-2) moves slowly along the crawlerway on its way back to the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crawler took a trip to the pad A/B split to test upgrades recently completed that will allow the giant vehicle to handle the load of the agency's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program oversaw upgrades to the 50-year-old CT-2. New generators, gear assemblies, jacking, equalizing and leveling (JEL) hydraulic cylinders, roller bearings and brakes were installed, and other components were upgraded to prepare for Exploration Mission 1.
Construction workers with JP Donovan assist as a crane lifts the second of two Tail Service Mast Umbilicals up for installation on the 0-level deck of the mobile launcher on July 27, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 35-foot-tall umbilical will connect to NASA's Space Launch System rocket core stage aft section and provide liquid hydrogen and electrical cable connections to the core stage engine section to support propellant handling during prelaunch operations. The installation brings Exploration Ground Systems one step closer to supporting prelaunch operations for the agency's SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft on Exploration Mission-1 and deep space destinations.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Changeout Room at Launch Pad 39A, technicians read a manual on the Payload Ground-Handling Mechanism hook instrumentation unit. The PGHM will be used in moving the U.S. Lab Destiny out of the payload canister and into the PCR. Destiny will then be transferred to the payload bay of Atlantis for mission STS-98. A key element in the construction of the International Space Station, Destiny is designed for space science experiments. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, all of the old crawler track panels have been removed from the surface and construction workers are repairing the concrete surface and catacomb roof below. Framing for the new crawler track panels is being installed in repaired areas of the pad surface. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Payload Changeout Room at Launch Pad 39A, technicians read a manual on the Payload Ground-Handling Mechanism hook instrumentation unit. The PGHM will be used in moving the U.S. Lab Destiny out of the payload canister and into the PCR. Destiny will then be transferred to the payload bay of Atlantis for mission STS-98. A key element in the construction of the International Space Station, Destiny is designed for space science experiments. STS-98 is the seventh construction flight to the ISS. Launch of STS-98 is scheduled for Jan. 19 at 2:11 a.m. EST
The U.S. Lab Destiny begins moving out of Atlantis’ payload bay and into the Payload Changeout Room via the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism. Destiny will remain in the PCR while Atlantis rolls back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to allow workers to conduct inspections, continuity checks and X-ray analysis on the 36 solid rocket booster cables located inside each booster’s system tunnel. An extensive evaluation of NASA’s SRB cable inventory revealed conductor damage in four (of about 200) cables on the shelf. Shuttle managers decided to prove the integrity of the system tunnel cables already on Atlantis
Crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) moves slowly along the crawlerway toward the Vehicle Assembly Building (in the background) at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crawler took a trip to the Pad A/B split to test upgrades recently completed that will allow the giant vehicle to handle the load of the agency's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program oversaw upgrades to the 50-year-old CT-2. New generators, gear assemblies, jacking, equalizing and leveling (JEL) hydraulic cylinders, roller bearings and brakes were installed, and other components were upgraded to prepare for Exploration Mission 1.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, removal of the crawler track panels on the pad’s surface is underway. The concrete surface beneath the panels and the catacomb roof below will be inspected for water damage and repaired. There are 176 panels, each weighing about 30,000 pounds that will be removed. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http:__go.nasa.gov_groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA_Dimitri Gerondidakis
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – An up close aerial view of the Vehicle Assembly Building and other facilities in the Launch Complex 39 area at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. In front of the VAB is the Launch Control Center. To the left are the Operations Support Buildings I and II. Upgrades are underway at Pad B and other facilities in the Launch Complex 39 area. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation from a historically government-only launch complex to a spaceport that can safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft, including NASA’s Space Launch System. For more information about GSDO, visit: http:__go.nasa.gov_groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA_Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, removal of the crawler track panels on the pad’s surface is underway. The concrete surface beneath the panels and the catacomb roof below will be inspected for water damage and repaired. There are 176 panels, each weighing about 30,000 pounds that will be removed. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http:__go.nasa.gov_groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA_Dimitri Gerondidakis
The second of two Tail Service Mast Umbilicals is lifted by crane for installation on the 0-level deck of the mobile launcher on July 27, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 35-foot-tall umbilical will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket core stage aft section and provide liquid hydrogen and electrical cable connections to the core stage engine section to support propellant handling during prelaunch operations. The installation brings Exploration Ground Systems one step closer to supporting prelaunch operations for the agency's SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft on Exploration Mission-1 and deep space destinations.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers are removing the flame trench deflector that sits below and between the left and right crawler track panels. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the payload changeout room, or PCR, on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare for the transfer of the cargo inside the payload canister, at left. Two of the four carriers seen behind the workers are the Orbital Replacement Unit Carrier (top) and the Super Lightweight Interchangeable Carrier. The cargo will be transferred into the PCR via the payload ground-handling mechanism, or PGHM. The PGHM removes payloads from a transportation canister and installs them into the shuttle. It is essentially NASA’s largest fork-lift. Atlantis is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, crawler track panels have been removed from the surface and construction workers are repairing the concrete surface and catacomb roof below. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman
Preparations are underway to install the second of two Tail Service Mast Umbilicals on the 0-level deck of the mobile launcher on July 27, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 35-foot-tall umbilical will connect to NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket core stage aft section and provide liquid hydrogen and electrical cable connections to the core stage engine section to support propellant handling during prelaunch operations. The installation brings Exploration Ground Systems one step closer to supporting prelaunch operations for the agency's SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft on Exploration Mission-1 and deep space destinations.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, construction workers continue to remove the flame trench deflector that sits below and between the left and right crawlerway tracks. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman
The first of two Tail Service Mast Umbilicals is lowered onto the 0-level deck of the mobile launcher on July 12, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The 35-foot-tall umbilical will connect to NASA's Space Launch System rocket core stage aft section and provide liquid oxygen and electrical cable connections to the core stage engine section to support propellant handling during prelaunch operations. The installation brings Exploration Ground Systems one step closer to supporting prelaunch operations for the agency's SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft on Exploration Mission-1 and deep space destinations.
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the liquid oxygen, or LOX, and liquid hydrogen, or LH2, tanks that supported space shuttle launches for 30 years have been sandblasted, repaired and repainted. The two tanks, designed to store super-cooled LOX and LH2, were refurbished to prepare them to support the launch of NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http:__go.nasa.gov_groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA_Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an aerial view shows the progress as construction workers remove crawler track panels from the pad’s surface. The concrete surface beneath the panels and the catacomb roof below will be inspected for water damage and repaired. There are 176 panels, each weighing about 30,000 pounds that will be removed. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http:__go.nasa.gov_groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA_Dimitri Gerondidakis
The U.S. Lab Destiny begins moving out of Atlantis’ payload bay and into the Payload Changeout Room via the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism. Destiny will remain in the PCR while Atlantis rolls back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to allow workers to conduct inspections, continuity checks and X-ray analysis on the 36 solid rocket booster cables located inside each booster’s system tunnel. An extensive evaluation of NASA’s SRB cable inventory revealed conductor damage in four (of about 200) cables on the shelf. Shuttle managers decided to prove the integrity of the system tunnel cables already on Atlantis
A full view of crawler-transporter 2 (CT-2) as it moves slowly along the crawlerway on its way back to the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The crawler took a trip to the Pad A/B split to test upgrades recently completed that will allow the giant vehicle to handle the load of the agency's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft atop the mobile launcher. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program oversaw upgrades to the 50-year-old CT-2. New generators, gear assemblies, jacking, equalizing and leveling (JEL) hydraulic cylinders, roller bearings and brakes were installed, and other components were upgraded to prepare for Exploration Mission 1.
The U.S. Lab Destiny moves out of Atlantis’ payload bay and into the Payload Changeout Room via the Payload Ground Handling Mechanism. Destiny will remain in the PCR while Atlantis rolls back to the Vehicle Assembly Building to allow workers to conduct inspections, continuity checks and X-ray analysis on the 36 solid rocket booster cables located inside each booster’s system tunnel. An extensive evaluation of NASA’s SRB cable inventory revealed conductor damage in four (of about 200) cables on the shelf. Shuttle managers decided to prove the integrity of the system tunnel cables already on Atlantis
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, construction workers continue to remove the bricks from the flame trench walls that are below and between the left and right crawlerway tracks. The space shuttle-era flame trench deflector has been completely removed. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, construction workers inspect the brick walls of the flame trench area that is located below and between the left and right crawlerway tracks. Pad B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a large bulldozer is used to remove the remaining portions of the flame trench deflector that was located below and between the left and right crawlerway tracks. Pad B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http://go.nasa.gov/groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman
CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, removal of the crawler track panels on the pad’s surface is underway. The concrete surface beneath the panels and the catacomb roof below will be inspected for water damage and repaired. There are 176 panels, each weighing about 30,000 pounds that will be removed. Launch Pad 39B is being refurbished to support NASA’s Space Launch System and other launch vehicles. The Ground Systems Development and Operations, or GSDO, Program office at Kennedy is leading the center’s transformation to safely handle a variety of rockets and spacecraft. For more information about GSDO, visit: http:__go.nasa.gov_groundsystems. Photo credit: NASA_Dimitri Gerondidakis