CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - After its shipping cover was removed, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility is moved to a high bay in the Space Station Processing Facility, or EF, at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers place an element of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, on the floor of the high bay. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, rests in the high bay. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - After its shipping cover was removed, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is moved to a high bay in the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch May 15, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is ready to be lowered onto a stand. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission to the International Space Station targeted for launch May 15, 2009. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory,the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the suspended Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is lowered into a workstand. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is being transferred to a workstand. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is lifted for a move to another stand. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission to the International Space Station targeted for launch May 15, 2009. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory,the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the suspended Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is moved over a workstand. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers observe the movement of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, as it is lowered toward a stand. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission to the International Space Station targeted for launch May 15, 2009. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory,the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is lifted for transfer to a workstand. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is moved across the room to another stand. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission to the International Space Station targeted for launch May 15, 2009. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory,the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is moved across the room to another stand. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission to the International Space Station targeted for launch May 15, 2009. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory,the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the suspended Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is lowered into a workstand. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is moved across the room to transfer it to a workstand. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers check the placement of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, on the stand. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission to the International Space Station targeted for launch May 15, 2009. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory,the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. –– In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the suspended Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, is guided toward a workstand, at left. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory, the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13, 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker (right) help guides the progress of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, as it moves across the room to another stand. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission to the International Space Station targeted for launch May 15, 2009. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory,the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker help guides the progress of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, as it moves across the room to another stand. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission to the International Space Station targeted for launch May 15, 2009. When it is installed on the Kibo laboratory,the EF will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Tom Marshburn is undergoing fit-check of his launch-and-entry suit in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Marshburn will be making his first shuttle flight. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Tom Marshburn checks equipment as part of pre-pack and fit check in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Marshburn will be making his first shuttle flight. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Dave Wolf checks the fit of his boot during fit-check of his launch-and-entry suit in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Wolf will be making his fourth shuttle flight. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Tom Marshburn checks the fit of his helmet during fit-check of his launch-and-entry suit in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Marshburn will be making his first shuttle flight. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Dave Wolf checks the fit of his glove during fit-check of his launch-and-entry suit in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Wolf will be making his fourth shuttle flight. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Christopher Cassidy is checking the fit of his launch-and-entry suit in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Cassidy will be making his first shuttle flight. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Christopher Cassidy checks his gloves during fit-check of his launch-and-entry suit in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Cassidy will be making his first shuttle flight. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Julie Payette checks the fit of her launch-and-entry suit in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Payette, who is with the Canadian Space Agency, will be making her second shuttle flight. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Commander Mark Polansky makes his way to the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landings in preparation for launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission on June 13 to the International Space Station. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulfstream II jet that was modified to simulate a shuttle’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Pilot Doug Hurley checks cockpit controls seated in the Shuttle Training Aircraft. Hurley will fly the STA to practice landings in preparation for launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission on June 13 to the International Space Station. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulfstream II jet that was modified to simulate a shuttle’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialists Julie Payette and Christopher Cassidy check equipment as part of pre-pack and fit check in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Payette, who is with the Canadian Space Agency, will be making her second shuttle flight, and Cassidy his first. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A Shuttle Training Aircraft approaches touchdown on the runway at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-127 Commander Mark Polansky and Pilot Doug Hurley are practicing landings in the STA in preparation for launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission on June 13 to the International Space Station. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulfstream II jet that was modified to simulate a shuttle’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Pilot Doug Hurley heads into the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice landings in preparation for launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission on June 13 to the International Space Station. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulfstream II jet that was modified to simulate a shuttle’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Tim Kopra completes fit-check of his launch-and-entry suit in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Kopra will be making his first shuttle flight and will remain on the space station as the Expedition 20 flight engineer. He will return to Earth on space shuttle Discovery with the STS-128 crew. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Commander Mark Polansky checks cockpit controls seated in the Shuttle Training Aircraft. Polansky will fly the STA to practice landings in preparation for launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission on June 13 to the International Space Station. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulfstream II jet that was modified to simulate a shuttle’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Commander Mark Polansky and Pilot Doug Hurley are ready to begin practicing landings in the Shuttle Training Aircraft. They are practicing in preparation for launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission on June 13 to the International Space Station. The STA is a Grumman American Aviation-built Gulfstream II jet that was modified to simulate a shuttle’s cockpit, motion and visual cues, and handling qualities. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 Mission Specialist Tim Kopra is undergoing fit-check of his launch-and-entry suit in preparation for space shuttle Endeavour's launch on June 13 to the International Space Station. Kopra will be making his first shuttle flight and will remain on the space station as the Expedition 20 flight engineer. He will return to Earth on space shuttle Discovery with the STS-128 crew. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Taking part in a prelaunch news conference at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida about the STS-127 mission are (from left) Mike Moses, launch integration manager and chair of the Mission Management Team; Pete Nickolenko, STS-127 shuttle launch director; Koki Oikawa, Japan Experiment Module, or JEM, Project Team function manager; Pierre Jean, director of Operations Engineering and program manager for the Canadian Space Station Program, Canadian Space Agency; and Kathy Winters, shuttle weather officer. In the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station, space shuttle Endeavour will deliver the JEM Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. STS-127 is the 29th flight for the assembly of the space station and the 127th flight in the Space Shuttle Program. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lowers the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission, into the payload canister. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lowers the the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission, into the payload canister. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lowers the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission, toward the payload canister. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane moves the the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission, to the payload canister, at right. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane moves the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission, to the payload canister, at right. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lowers the the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission, into the payload canister. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The transporter with the payload canister rolls past the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on its way to Launch Pad 39A. Inside the canister is space shuttle Endeavour's payload for the STS-127 mission, which includes the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section to the International Space Station. They will be installed on the Kibo laboratory on the station. Launch of Endeavour is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, from its work stand to a payload canister. The canister will transport the payload to Launch Pad 39A. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. The canister will deliver the ELM-ES and other elements to Launch Pad 39A for installation in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The STS-127 mission is targeted for launch June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane is moved toward the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The crane will transfer the ES to the payload canister that will transport it to Launch Pad 39A. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. The canister will deliver the ELM-ES and other elements to Launch Pad 39A for installation in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The STS-127 mission is targeted for launch June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane is lowered onto Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The crane will transfer the ES to the payload canister that will transport it to Launch Pad 39A. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. The canister will deliver the ELM-ES and other elements to Launch Pad 39A for installation in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The STS-127 mission is targeted for launch June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The transporter with the payload canister arrives at Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Under lights at left are the rotating and fixed service structures on the pad. Inside the canister is space shuttle Endeavour's payload for the STS-127 mission, which includes the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section to the International Space Station. They will be installed on the Kibo laboratory on the station. Launch of Endeavour is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane carries the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, the length of the room to a payload canister. The canister will transport the payload to Launch Pad 39A. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. The canister will deliver the ELM-ES and other elements to Launch Pad 39A for installation in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The STS-127 mission is targeted for launch June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – – The transporter with the payload canister nears on the rotating service structure, or RSS, on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. When it is under the RSS, the canister will be lifted up into the Payload Changeout Room above. Inside the canister is space shuttle Endeavour's payload for the STS-127 mission, which includes the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section to the International Space Station. They will be installed on the Kibo laboratory on the station. Launch of Endeavour is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The transporter with the payload canister exits the Canister Rotation Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Inside the canister is space shuttle Endeavour's payload for the STS-127 mission, which includes the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section to the International Space Station. They will be installed on the Kibo laboratory on the station. Launch of Endeavour is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Standing water collects on the surface of a parking lot across the street from NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building, the aftermath of thunderstorms in the vicinity of Kennedy’s Shuttle Landing Facility. Two landing opportunities for space shuttle Atlantis to conclude the STS-125 mission were waved off May 22 due to violations of the end-of-mission landing weather criteria. Through five spacewalks on the STS-125 mission, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope was refurbished and upgraded with state-of-the-art science instruments that will expand Hubble's capabilities and extend its operational lifespan through at least 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, is lowered into the payload canister. The canister will transport the payload to Launch Pad 39A. The ES, along with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. The canister will deliver the ELM-ES and other elements to Launch Pad 39A for installation in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The STS-127 mission is targeted for launch June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The transporter with the payload canister rolls through the gate at Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Under lights at upper right are the rotating and fixed service structures on the pad. Inside the canister is space shuttle Endeavour's payload for the STS-127 mission, which includes the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section to the International Space Station. They will be installed on the Kibo laboratory on the station. Launch of Endeavour is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the mobile launcher parking area behind the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the new mobile launcher, or ML, for the Ares rockets is under construction. The ML will be the base to launch the Orion crew exploration vehicle and the cargo vehicle. The base is being made lighter than space shuttle mobile launcher platforms so the crawler-transporter can pick up the added load of the 345-foot tower and taller rocket. When the structural portion of the new mobile launcher is complete, umbilicals, access arms, communications equipment and command/control equipment will be installed. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane carries the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, toward the payload canister, at right. The canister will transport the payload to Launch Pad 39A. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. The canister will deliver the ELM-ES and other elements to Launch Pad 39A for installation in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The STS-127 mission is targeted for launch June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – – The transporter with the payload canister arrives under the rotating service structure, or RSS, on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The canister will be lifted up into the Payload Changeout Room above. Inside the canister is space shuttle Endeavour's payload for the STS-127 mission, which includes the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section to the International Space Station. They will be installed on the Kibo laboratory on the station. Launch of Endeavour is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – – The transporter with the payload canister closes in on the rotating service structure, or RSS, on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. When it is under the RSS, the canister will be lifted up into the Payload Changeout Room above. Inside the canister is space shuttle Endeavour's payload for the STS-127 mission, which includes the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section to the International Space Station. They will be installed on the Kibo laboratory on the station. Launch of Endeavour is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Water saturates the ground and stands on the surface of a parking lot across the street from NASA Kennedy Space Center's Vehicle Assembly Building, the aftermath of thunderstorms in the vicinity of Kennedy’s Shuttle Landing Facility. Two landing opportunities for space shuttle Atlantis to conclude the STS-125 mission were waved off May 22 due to violations of the end-of-mission landing weather criteria. Through five spacewalks on the STS-125 mission, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope was refurbished and upgraded with state-of-the-art science instruments that will expand Hubble's capabilities and extend its operational lifespan through at least 2014. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lifts Kibo Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, from its work stand. The crane will transfer the ES to the payload canister that will transport it to Launch Pad 39A. The ELM-ES is one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. It can provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. The canister will deliver the ELM-ES and other elements to Launch Pad 39A for installation in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The STS-127 mission is targeted for launch June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station are left inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station are left inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to prepare for unpacking and processing. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station are ready to be offloaded from the flatbed trailer and moved into the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The elements are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Kibo Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A flatbed trailer carrying the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station delivers them to the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the second component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is lifted onto a flatbed trailer beside another component for transportation to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory to place it on a flatbed trailer. It will be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the second component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is fitted with an overhead crane to lift it to a flatbed trailer. The two components will be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove an overhead crane from the second of two components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The components, which will be added to the International Space Station, will be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of two final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory reaches the end of the offloading ramp. A crane will lift it onto a flatbed trailer for transportation to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers remove material from a cargo box before offloading the primary cargo from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The plane carries the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station: the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, equipment is removed from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane to facilitate offloading of the primary cargo, the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane has landed on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida to deliver the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a flatbed trailer holds two components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory that will be added to the International Space Station. The components will be transported to the Space Station Processing Facility. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of two final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is moved out of the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the nose of the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane is lifted to offload its cargo. The plane carries the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, one of the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is moved out of the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, ramps are in place for the offloading of the primary cargo from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The plane carries the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station: the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - On the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the second component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory is offloaded from the Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane. The components are the Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane is attached to the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission. The module will be transferred to the payload canister. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane lifts the the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission, from its stand. The module will be transferred to the payload canister. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane moves the the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission, across the floor toward the payload canister. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, an overhead crane is moved into position above the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo Exposed Facility, or EF, part of the payload for the STS-127 mission. The module will be transferred to the payload canister. The EF, along with the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch June 13. When the EF is installed on the Kibo laboratory, it will provide a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

ISS020-E-025116 (26 July 2009) --- A portion of the Japanese Experiment Module - Exposed Facility (JEM-EF); along with the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) or Canadarm2, and JEM Robotic Manipulator System (JEM-RMS) are seen from inside the Kibo laboratory of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Endeavour (STS-127) remains docked with the station. The blackness of space and Earth's horizon provide the backdrop for the scene.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - A flatbed trailer carrying the final components of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory for the International Space Station drives past the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The trailer contains the Kibo Exposed Facility and the Experiment Logistics Module Exposed Section, which are going to the Space Station Processing Facility. The two components arrived earlier on a Russian Antonov AH-124-100 cargo airplane at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The EF provides a multipurpose platform where science experiments can be deployed and operated in the exposed environment. The payloads attached to the EF can be exchanged or retrieved by Kibo's robotic arm, the JEM Remote Manipulator System. The ELM-ES will be attached to the end of the EF to provide payload storage space and can carry up to three payloads at launch. In addition, the ELM-ES provides a logistics function where it can be detached from the EF and returned to the ground aboard the space shuttle. The two JEM components will be carried aboard space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-127 mission targeted for launch in May 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay doors are closing. Seen here on the left is the Integrated Cargo Carrier-Vertical Light Deploy (with the Space-to-Ground Antenna showing). The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers in the payload changeout room of the rotating service structure prepare to close space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay doors in preparation for the launch of the STS-127 mission. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers ensure smooth closure of space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay doors. Elements stored in the payload bay are, at bottom, the Integrated Cargo Carrier-Vertical Light Deploy (with the Space-to-Ground Antenna showing), the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section (middle) and the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility (at top). The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers in the payload changeout room of the rotating service structure check equipment during closing of space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay doors. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay doors have been closed. Inside are the Integrated Cargo Carrier-Vertical Light Deploy, the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section and the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers keep watch as space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay doors close. Inside are the Integrated Cargo Carrier-Vertical Light Deploy, the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section and the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility.The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay doors are closing. At the bottom of the payload bay is the Integrated Cargo Carrier-Vertical Light Deploy (with the Space-to-Ground Antenna showing). In the middle is the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section. At top is the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker keeps watch as the starboard payload bay door closes over space shuttle Endeavour's payload. Inside are the Integrated Cargo Carrier-Vertical Light Deploy, the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section and the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers in the payload changeout room of the rotating service structure watch closely as space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay doors close in preparation for the launch of theSTS-127 mission. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a worker keeps watch as the portside payload bay door closes over space shuttle Endeavour's payload. Inside are the Integrated Cargo Carrier-Vertical Light Deploy, the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section and the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

JSC2006-E-43509 (October 2006) --- Computer-generated artist's rendering of the International Space Station after flight 2J/A. U.S. Orbiter delivers Kibo Japanese Experiment Module Exposed Facility (JEM-EF); Kibo Japanese Experiment Logistics Module - Exposed Section (ELM-ES); and Spacelab Pallet - Deployable 2 (SLP-D2).

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-127 crew members get a close look at the payload in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. The payload includes the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES. The astronauts are at Kennedy to prepare for launch through Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. The TCDT includes equipment familiarization and a simulated launch countdown. Endeavour's STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japanese Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Endeavour's launch is targeted for June 13. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A Shuttle Training Aircraft transporting the STS-127 astronaut crew from Houston arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. STS-127 crew arrived at Kennedy to get ready for launch on space shuttle Endeavour on June 13. The STS-127 mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, to the space station on STS-127. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Storm clouds roll in over the NASA Vehicle Assembly Building moments after STS-127 Space Shuttle Launch Director Pete Nickolenko and the launch team called the launch a "No Go" due to weather conditions at the NASA Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Endeavour will be launching with the crew of STS-127 on a 16-day mission that will feature five spacewalks and complete construction of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, in the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. STS-127 is the 29th flight for the assembly of the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Center Director Bob Cabana is in the Launch Control Center as NASA managers postponed today’s space shuttle launch because of lightning and thunderstorms within the 20-nautical-mile circle around the launch pad. The fifth launch attempt for the STS-127 mission was scrubbed at 6:39 p.m. EDT. The STS-127 launch was rescheduled for July 15 at 6:03 p.m. EDT. Endeavour will deliver the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, in the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the International Space Station. STS-127 is the 29th flight for the assembly of the space Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After rollback of the rotating service structure, or RSS, on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Endeavour waits for launch. First motion of the RSS was at 10:15 a.m. EDT. The rollback is in preparation for Endeavour's liftoff on the STS-127 mission with a crew of seven. This is the second launch attempt for Endeavour after the June 13 launch was scrubbed due to a hydrogen leak at the Ground Umbilical Carrier Plate during tanking June 12. The launch will be Endeavour's 23rd flight. The shuttle will carry the Japanese Experiment Module's Exposed Facility, or JEM-EF, and the Experiment Logistics Module-Exposed Section, or ELM-ES, on STS-127. The mission is the final of three flights dedicated to the assembly of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory complex on the space station. Endeavour's launch is scheduled for June 17 at 5:40 a.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett