JSC2003-00590 (24 Sept. 2003) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham

JSC2003-E-54284 (15 Aug. 2003) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, uses the crew escape slide in the crew compartment trainer (CCT) during emergency egress training. The CCT is one of several shuttle-training components located in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at the Johnson Space Center. Higginbotham is wearing a training version of the shuttle launch and entry suit. United Space Alliance (USA) crew trainer Adam G. Flagan assisted Higginbotham.

JSC2003-00686 (January 2003) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, takes a break from training to pose for a portrait with a NASA T-38 trainer jet at Ellington Field near Johnson Space Center.

JSC2003-00684 (January 2003) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, takes a break from training to pose for a portrait with a NASA T-38 trainer jet at Ellington Field near Johnson Space Center.

JSC2003-00678 (January 2003) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, takes a break from training to pose for a portrait with a NASA T-38 trainer jet at Ellington Field near Johnson Space Center.

Joan Higginbotham, retired NASA astronaut, speaks at an event to commemorate Black Space Week (BSW) 2024 titled, "Beyond the Color Lines From Science Fiction to Science Fact," in the Oprah Winfrey Theater at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Monday, June 17, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Joan Higginbotham, retired NASA astronaut, speaks at an event to commemorate Black Space Week (BSW) 2024 titled, "Beyond the Color Lines From Science Fiction to Science Fact," in the Oprah Winfrey Theater at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Monday, June 17, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

Joan Higginbotham, retired NASA astronaut, speaks at an event to commemorate Black Space Week (BSW) 2024 titled, "Beyond the Color Lines From Science Fiction to Science Fact," in the Oprah Winfrey Theater at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Monday, June 17, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

NASA astronaut Jessica Watkins speaks on a panel with NASA astronauts Victor Glover, Joan Higginbotham (retired), Dr. Yvonne Cagle, and Leland Melvin (retired), at an event to commemorate Black Space Week (BSW) 2024 titled, "Beyond the Color Lines From Science Fiction to Science Fact," in the Oprah Winfrey Theater at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Monday, June 17, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

JOHNSON SPACE CENTER, Houston - JSC2003-00590 (24 September 2003) - Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, mission specialist.

From left to right, NASA astronauts Victor Glover, Dr. Yvonne Cagle, America's first African American astronaut candidate, Ed Dwight, Joan Higginbotham (retired), Leland Melvin (retired) and Jessica Watkins pose for a photo at the conclusion of an event to commemorate Black Space Week (BSW) 2024 titled, "Beyond the Color Lines From Science Fiction to Science Fact," in the Oprah Winfrey Theater at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Monday, June 17, 2024 in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)

S116-E-05480 (11 Dec. 2006) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, settles in for a task on the aft flight deck of Space Shuttle Discovery during flight day three activities.

S116-E-05575 (11 Dec. 2006) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, uses a computer on the middeck of Space Shuttle Discovery during flight day three activities.

S116-E-06151 (14 Dec. 2006) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, retrieves items from a drawer on the middeck of the Space Shuttle Discovery during flight day six activities.

S116-E-05409 (11 Dec. 2006) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, looks over procedures checklists in a hatch on Space Shuttle Discovery during flight day three activities.

In the Early Space Exploration Conference Center at the KSC Visitor Complex, Dr. Julian M. Earls (left), deputy director for Operations, Glenn Research Center, receives a plaque from astronaut Joan Higginbotham (right) during the 2000 African American History Month Celebration Luncheon. Dr. Earls was guest speaker at the luncheon

S116-E-05777 (11 Dec. 2006) --- Astronauts Joan E. Higginbotham (foreground) and Sunita L. Williams, both STS-116 mission specialists, work the controls of the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) or Canadarm2 in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station during flight day three activities.

JSC2001-E-25411 (17 August 2001) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, ISS spacecraft communicator (CAPCOM), inputs data into her computer at her console in the station flight control room (BFCR) in Houston's Mission Control Center (MCC) during the STS-105 mission.

JSC2005-E-31247 (28 July 2005) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, attired in a training version of the shuttle launch and entry suit, awaits the start of an emergency egress training session in the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) near the Johnson Space Center (JSC).

JSC2006-E-04816 (18 Feb. 2006) --- Astronauts Joan Higginbotham and Robert L. Satcher Jr. autograph portraits for an attendee at the NBA All-Star Jam Session in Houston's central business district. The autograph table was part of NASA's exhibit at the event.

Astronauts Lee Archambault and Joan Higginbotham look at a piece of Columbia debris placed on the grid in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from Barksdale Air Force Base, Shreveport, La. As part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident, workers will attempt to reconstruct the orbiter inside the RLV.

JSC2006-E-49040 (13 Nov. 2006) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, looks over a directory in the check-out facility at Ellington Field near Johnson Space Center prior to a flight in a NASA T-38 trainer jet to the Kennedy Space Center, Florida.

S116-E-05447 (11 Dec. 2006) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, uses a handheld laser ranging device on the aft flight deck of the Space Shuttle Discovery to track the range of the International Space Station during rendezvous operations.

In the Early Space Exploration Conference Center at the KSC Visitor Complex, Dr. Julian M. Earls (left), deputy director for Operations, Glenn Research Center, receives a plaque from astronaut Joan Higginbotham (right) during the 2000 African American History Month Celebration Luncheon. Dr. Earls was guest speaker at the luncheon

ISS014-E-09631 (12 Dec. 2006) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, works the controls of the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) or Canadarm2 in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station during flight day four activities.

JSC2006-E-49052 (13 Nov. 2006) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, photographed in the rear station of a NASA T-38 trainer jet at Ellington Field near Johnson Space Center, prepares for a flight to the Kennedy Space Center, Florida.

S116-E-05528 (11 Dec. 2006) --- Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, uses a handheld laser ranging device on the aft flight deck of the Space Shuttle Discovery to track the range of the International Space Station during rendezvous operations.

Astronauts Lee Archambault and Joan Higginbotham look at a piece of Columbia debris placed on the grid in the RLV Hangar. The debris was shipped from Barksdale Air Force Base, Shreveport, La. As part of the ongoing investigation into the tragic accident, workers will attempt to reconstruct the orbiter inside the RLV.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-116 mission crew practices for launch with a simulation of activities, from crew breakfast and suit-up to countdown in the orbiter. In this photo Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham is suited up before heading to Launch Pad 39B. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

S116-E-05265 (10 Dec. 2006) --- Astronauts Joan E. Higginbotham (foreground) and Sunita L. Williams, both STS-116 mission specialists, prepare to eat a meal on the middeck of Space Shuttle Discovery. Williams will join the Expedition 14 crew as flight engineer after she enters the International Space Station. Docking of the two spacecraft will occur on Dec. 11.

ISS014-E-09635 (12 Dec. 2006) --- Astronauts Joan E. Higginbotham (foreground), STS-116 mission specialist, and Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer, refer to a procedures checklist as they work the controls of the Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS) or Canadarm2 in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station during flight day four activities.

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang, Sunita Williams and Joan Higginbotham happily pose in a slidewire basket used for emergency egress from the orbiter. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

JSC2001-02225 (17 August 2001) --- The members of the STS-105/ISS 7A.1 Orbit 2 team pose for a group portrait in the International Space Station (ISS) flight control room (BFCR) in Houston’s Mission Control Center (MCC). Orbit 2 flight director Rick LaBrode (front right) holds the STS-105 mission logo, and Astronaut Joan E. Higginbotham, ISS spacecraft communicator (CAPCOM), holds the ISS 7A.1 mission logo.

S116-E-05579 (11 Dec. 2006) --- Astronaut Sunita L. Williams (left) and Joan E. Higginbotham, both STS-116 mission specialists, float arm-in-arm near Space Shuttle Discovery's hatch, which leads into the International Space Station. Rendezvous and docking operations between the shuttle and station occurred at 4:12 p.m. (CST) and the crew entered the orbital outpost at 5:54 p.m. (CST) on Dec. 11.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The crew members of mission STS-116 are suiting up for launch at 9:35 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B aboard Space Shuttle Discovery. Pictured here, Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham is helped with her helmet. Higginbotham will be making her first shuttle flight. This is Discovery's 33rd mission and the first night launch since 2003. The 20th shuttle mission to the International Space Station, STS-116 carries another truss segment, P5. It will serve as a spacer, mated to the P4 truss that was attached in September. After installing the P5, the crew will reconfigure and redistribute the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. Landing is expected Dec. 19 at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The crew members of mission STS-116 are suiting up for launch at 9:35 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B aboard Space Shuttle Discovery. Pictured here, Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham is helped with her boot. Higginbotham will be making her first shuttle flight. This is Discovery's 33rd mission and the first night launch since 2003. The 20th shuttle mission to the International Space Station, STS-116 carries another truss segment, P5. It will serve as a spacer, mated to the P4 truss that was attached in September. After installing the P5, the crew will reconfigure and redistribute the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. Landing is expected Dec. 19 at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham poses for media representatives following her arrival at KSC aboard a T-38 jet aircraft for the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on Dec. 7. On the mission, the STS-116 crew will deliver truss segment, P5, to the International Space Station and begin the intricate process of reconfiguring and redistributing the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. The P5 will be mated to the P4 truss that was delivered and attached during the STS-115 mission in September. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

In the Space Station Processing Facility, holding the nameplate for the Unity connecting module are (left) Joan Higginbotham, with the Astronaut Office Computer Support Branch, and (right) Nancy Tolliver, with Boeing-Huntsville. Part of the International Space Station, Unity was expected to be transported to Launch Pad 39A on Oct. 26 for launch aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour on Mission STS-88 in December. The Unity is a connecting passageway to the living and working areas of ISS. While on orbit, the flight crew will deploy Unity from the payload bay and attach Unity to the Russian-built Zarya control module which will be in orbit at that time

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing area at Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 crew members sit in one of the baskets used for emergency egress from the orbiter. From left are Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham and Christer Fuglesang, who represents the European Space Agency. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., STS-116 Mission Specialists (from left) Sunita Williams, Joan Higginbotham and Nicholas Patrick look over flight hardware during the Crew Equipment Interface Test. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-116 mission crew practices for launch with a simulation of activities, from crew breakfast and suit-up to countdown in the orbiter. In this photo Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham dons her launch suit and helmet before heading to Launch Pad 39B. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39B, the STS-116 crew gets instruction on using the slidewire baskets for emergency egress from the orbiter. The astronauts seen here are (on the left) Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang, Sunita Williams and Joan Higginbotham and (on the right) Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam and Nicholas Patrick. The mission crew is at KSC for the TCDT, which includes a simulated launch countdown. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., STS-116 Mission Specialists (from left) Joan Higginbotham, Sunita Williams and Nicholas Patrick look over flight hardware during the Crew Equipment Interface Test. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility, Launch Director Mike Leinbach welcomes (from left) STS-116 Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Robert Curbeam and Commander Mark Polansky upon their arrival at KSC aboard T-38 jet aircraft for the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on Dec. 7. On the mission, the crew will deliver truss segment, P5, to the International Space Station and begin the intricate process of reconfiguring and redistributing the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. The P5 will be mated to the P4 truss that was delivered and attached during the STS-115 mission in September. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the white room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham is helped with her gear before entering Space Shuttle Discovery. The mission crew is taking part in a simulated launch countdown, part of the terminal countdown demonstration test that includes prelaunch preparations. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham has donned her complete launch suit to check the fit, part of the prelaunch preparations during terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities. The mission crew is at KSC for the TCDT, which includes a simulated launch countdown. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39B, the STS-116 crew members learn about the facilities inside a bunker. From left are Mission Specialists Sunita Williams, Christer Fuglesang, Nicholas Patrick, Joan Higginbotham and Robert Curbeam; Commander Mark Polansky; a trainer; and Pilot William Oefelein. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Striding through the Vehicle Assembly Building are STS-116 crew members (from left) Mark Polansky, commander; Nicholas Patrick, Sunita Williams, Christer Fugelsang and Joan Higginbotham, mission specialists. The crew is at KSC for a Crew Equipment Interface Test. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Kennedy Space Center to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham goes over data with technicians about the mission. She and other crew members are taking part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT). A CEIT allows astronauts to become familiar with equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. STS-116 will be mission No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham has donned her complete launch suit to check the fit, part of the prelaunch preparations during terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities. The mission crew is at KSC for the TCDT, which includes a simulated launch countdown. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., STS-116 Mission Specialists (from left) Sunita Williams, Joan Higginbotham and Nicholas Patrick look over flight hardware during the Crew Equipment Interface Test. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., STS-116 Mission Specialists (from left) Joan Higginbotham, Sunita Williams and Nicholas Patrick look over flight hardware during the Crew Equipment Interface Test. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham is helmeted and ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The mission crew is at KSC for terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch. The M-113 could be used to move the crew quickly away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency. In the background is Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham gets a close look at equipment in the orbiter Discovery’s mid-deck. She and other crew members are taking part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT). A CEIT allows astronauts to become familiar with equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. STS-116 will be mission No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing area at Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 crew members get instructions for exiting the baskets used for emergency egress from the orbiter. Standing at right are (from left) Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Nicholas Patrick, Sunita Williams, Robert Curbeam and Christer Fuglesang; Pilot William Oefelein; and Commander Mark Polansky. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla., STS-116 Mission Specialists Sunita Williams (left) and Joan Higginbotham get a close look at the rack front stowage trays that are used inside the SPACEHAB module. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission number 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the slidewire basket landing area at Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang is ready for the leap to the ground to practice exiting the basket, used for emergency egress from the orbiter. Other crew members waiting their turn are Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham and Pilot William Oefelein (partially hidden). The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla., the STS-116 crew takes a break from equipment familiarization in the SPACEHAB module to pose for a group photo. From left are Mission Specialists Sunita Williams, Nicholas Patrick and Joan Higginbotham. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission number 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham looks over flight hardware during the Crew Equipment Interface Test. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-116 crew gathers for a photo after their successful training on the M-113 armored personnel carrier. On top are Mission Specialists Sunita Williams (left) and Joan Higginbotham. In front are (left to right) Pilot William Oefelein, Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick and Robert Curbeam, Commander Mark Polansky and Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang, who represents the European Space Agency. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

STS116-S-002 (21 July 2006) --- These seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-116 crew portrait. Scheduled to launch aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery are, front row (from the left), astronauts William A. Oefelein, pilot; Joan E. Higginbotham, mission specialist; and Mark L. Polansky, commander. On the back row (from the left) are astronauts Robert L. Curbeam, Nicholas J.M. Patrick, Sunita L. Williams and the European Space Agency's Christer Fuglesang, all mission specialists. Williams will join Expedition 14 in progress to serve as a flight engineer aboard the International Space Station. The crewmembers are attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits.

JSC2005-E-18147 (6 May 2005) --- Astronauts Sunita L. Williams (left), Expedition 14 flight engineer, and Joan E. Higginbotham, STS-116 mission specialist, use the virtual reality lab at the Johnson Space Center to train for their duties aboard the space shuttle. This type of computer interface, paired with virtual reality training hardware and software, helps to prepare the entire team for dealing with space station elements. Williams will join Expedition 14 in progress and serve as a flight engineer after traveling to the station on space shuttle mission STS-116.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla., STS-116 crew members get a close look at he Treadmill Vibration Isolation System Gyroscop during equipment familiarization. Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick (center) practices stowing the replacement gyro in the block of foam which is what the gyro will be stowed in inside the SPACEHAB module. The other crew members watching are, from left, Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang, Pilot William Oefelein, Commander Mark Polansky, and at right, Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham. Fuglesang, from Sweden, represents the European Space Agency. Between Patarick and Higginbotham is astronaut Marsha Ivins, who is currently assigned to the Astronaut Office, Space Station/Shuttle Branches for crew equipment, habitability and stowage. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission number 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier away from Launch Pad 39B. On the M-113, Pilot William Oefelein is at left and Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader, in between Oefelein and Higginbotham. In the background is the fixed service structure, with the 80-foot-tall lightning mast on top, and Space Shuttle Discovery -- only the orange external tank can be seen. The mission crew is at KSC for terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch. The M-113 could be used to move the crew quickly away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Pilot William Oefelein wears his helmet in preparation for driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The mission crew is at KSC for terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch. The M-113 could be used to move the crew quickly away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency. Behind Oefelein, at right, are Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick and Joan Higginbotham. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the payload changeout room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 crew members look over the mission payload one more time before launch. Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham is at left. The crew is at KSC to take part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency egress training, a simulated launch countdown and payload familiarization. The TCDT is part of prelaunch preparations for the mission that is scheduled to lift off in a window opening no earlier than Dec. 7. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Sunita Williams is helmeted and ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The mission crew is at KSC for terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch. The M-113 could be used to move the crew quickly away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency. Behind Patrick, at right, are Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick and Joan Higginbotham. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, the STS-116 crew members are told what to expect on launch day as they enter Space Shuttle Discovery from the area. From left are Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam, Commander Mark Polansky, Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham and Sunita Williams, Pilot William Oefelein, and Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang and Nicholas Patrick. Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. The mission crew is at KSC for the TCDT, which includes a simulated launch countdown. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

S116-E-05586 (11 Dec. 2006) --- The Space Shuttle Discovery and Expedition 14 crewmembers enjoy a light moment in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station following rendezvous and docking operations between the shuttle and station. Pictured in the foreground (left to right) are astronauts Michael E. Lopez-Alegria, Expedition 14 commander and NASA space station science officer; European Space Agency (ESA) astronauts Christer Fuglesang, STS-116 mission specialist; and Thomas Reiter, Expedition 14 flight engineer. Pictured in the background are astronauts Robert L. Curbeam, Jr., STS-116 mission specialist; Mark L. Polansky, STS-116 commander; William A. (Bill) Oefelein, STS-116 pilot; Joan E. Higginbotham and Sunita L. Williams, both STS-116 mission specialists.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 crew members wait for a practice ride in the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The mission crew is at KSC for terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch. Seen here are (left to right) Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam, Commander Mark Polansky and Pilot William Oefelein. Not pictured are Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick, Christer Fuglesang and Joan Higginbotham. The M-113 could be used to move the crew quickly away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

The astronauts of NASA's STS-116 space shuttle mission visited NASA Stennis Space Center in south Mississippi to share highlights of their 13-day mission and to thank SSC employees for the reliability of the space shuttle's main engines, which helped propel Space Shuttle Discovery into orbit during its Dec. 9, 2006, launch. Pictured (from left) are STS-116 crewmembers Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot Bill Oefelein, Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam, SSC Center Director, Richard Gilbrech, Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Nicholas Patrick and Christer Fuglesang. During the mission, which began with the first evening launch since 2002, the astronauts installed the P5 spacer truss segment and rewired the International Space Station's power system.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla., the STS-116 crew takes a break from equipment familiarization to pose for a group photo. From bottom to top are Pilot William Oefelein, Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Nicholas Patrick, Robert Curbeam, Christer Fuglesang and Sunita Williams, and Commander Mark Polansky. The Swedish Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission number 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 crew members are heading into the Astrovan that will take them to Launch Pad 39B and the simulated countdown. From left are Pilot William Oefelein (on the steps) and Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang, Sunita Williams and Robert Curbeam. Already inside are Commander Mark Polansky and Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham and Nicholas Patrick. The crew is practicing for launch with a simulation of activities, from crew breakfast and suit-up to countdown in the orbiter. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

S116-E-06429 (15 Dec. 2006) --- The STS-116 crewmembers gather for a group portrait during a joint crew press conference in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery was docked with the station. From the left (front row) are astronauts William A. (Bill) Oefelein, pilot; Joan E. Higginbotham, Nicholas J. M. Patrick and European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Thomas Reiter, mission specialists. From the left (back row) are astronauts Mark L. Polansky, commander; Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer; European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Christer Fuglesang and Robert L. Curbeam, Jr., mission specialists. Shortly after the two spacecraft docked on Dec. 11, Williams became a member of the station crew. At the same time, Reiter became a Discovery crewmember for his ride home, completing about six months in space.

JSC2005-E-32783 (1 Aug. 2005) --- Attired in training versions of the shuttle launch and entry suit, the STS-116 crew and an Expedition 14 crewmember pose for a group photo prior to a training session in the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility at the Johnson Space Center. From the left are astronauts Robert L. Curbeam, mission specialist; Sunita L. Williams, Expedition 14 flight engineer; William A. Oefelein, pilot; Mark L. Polansky, commander; Joan E. Higginbotham, Nicholas J.M. Patrick and European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Christer Fuglesang, all mission specialists. Williams will join Expedition 14 in progress and serve as a flight engineer after traveling to the station on space shuttle mission STS-116. The full fuselage trainer (FFT), which is a full-scale mockup of a shuttle, is visible in the background.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The crew members of mission STS-116 are suiting up for a second launch attempt at 8:47 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B aboard Space Shuttle Discovery. Pictured here, Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham, who will be making her first shuttle flight, is helped with her boot. The first launch attempt of STS-116 on Dec. 7 was postponed due a low cloud ceiling over Kennedy Space Center. This is Discovery's 33rd mission and the first night launch since 2002. The 20th shuttle mission to the International Space Station, STS-116 carries another truss segment, P5. It will serve as a spacer, mated to the P4 truss that was attached in September. After installing the P5, the crew will reconfigure and redistribute the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. Landing is expected Dec. 19 at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 Commander Mark Polansky places the mission placard at the hatch opening. The White Room is the point of entry into Space Shuttle Discovery for the crew. Other crew members are Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Sunita Williams, Nicholas Patrick, Robert Curbeam and Christer Fuglesang, who represents the European Space Agency. The mission crew is at KSC for the TCDT, which includes a simulated launch countdown. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang poses for the media after his arrival at KSC. Fugelsang, who is from Sweden, represents the European Space Agency. The crew has returned to KSC for the terminal countdown demonstration test, which are prelaunch preparations that include a simulated launch countdown. Other crew members are Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Sunita Williams, Joan Higginbotham, Nicholas Patrick and Robert Curbeam. The mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the Shuttle Landing Facility, members of the STS-116 crew address media representatives on hand for their arrival at KSC aboard T-38 jet aircraft for the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on Dec. 7. From left are Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham; Pilot William Oefelein; Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam; and Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang, a Swedish astronaut representing the European Space Agency (at the microphone). On the mission, the STS-116 crew will deliver truss segment, P5, to the International Space Station and begin the intricate process of reconfiguring and redistributing the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. The P5 will be mated to the P4 truss that was delivered and attached during the STS-115 mission in September. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Sunita Williams poses for the media. The crew has returned to KSC for the terminal countdown demonstration test, which are prelaunch preparations that include a simulated launch countdown. Other crew members are Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Nicholas Patrick, Christer Fuglesang and Robert Curbeam. Fuglesang, who is from Sweden, represents the European Space Agency. Williams will remain on the International Space Station as flight engineer on the Expedition 14 crew. The mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the 195-foot level of the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 crew members gather for a photo in front of the white solid rocket boosters and external tank of Space Shuttle Discovery. They have just completed a simulated launch countdown and emergency egress from the orbiter. From left are Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick, Robert Curbeam, Christer Fuglesang, Joan Higginbotham and Sunita Williams. Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. Williams is traveling to the International Space Station on Discovery and will remain behind as a flight engineer with the Expedition 14 crew. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The crew members of mission STS-116 are suiting up for a second launch attempt at 8:47 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B aboard Space Shuttle Discovery. Pictured here, Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham, who will be making her first shuttle flight, has donned her helmet. The first launch attempt of STS-116 on Dec. 7 was postponed due a low cloud ceiling over Kennedy Space Center. This is Discovery's 33rd mission and the first night launch since 2002. The 20th shuttle mission to the International Space Station, STS-116 carries another truss segment, P5. It will serve as a spacer, mated to the P4 truss that was attached in September. After installing the P5, the crew will reconfigure and redistribute the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. Landing is expected Dec. 19 at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham is greeted by Kennedy Space Center Deputy Director Bill Parsons at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The STS-116 crew has returned to KSC for the terminal countdown demonstration test, which are pre-launch preparations that include a simulated launch countdown. The crew also includes Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein, Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick, Robert Curbeam, Christer Fuglesang and Flight Engineer Sunita Williams, joining Expedition 14 in progress. The mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The mission STS-116 crew poses in the White Room on Launch Pad 39B. Clockwise from left are Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam and Sunita Williams, Pilot William Oefelein, Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham, Commander Mark Polansky, and Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang and Nicholas Patrick. Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. The mission crew is at KSC for the TCDT, which includes a simulated launch countdown. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-116 crew walks to the Astrovan for the drive to Launch Pad 39B. From left are Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam, Sunita Williams, Nicholas Patrick and Christer Fuglesang; Pilot William Oefelein; Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham; and Commander Mark Polansky. Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. Williams will replace Expedition 14 crew member Thomas Reiter, who will return to Earth aboard Discovery in her place. This is Discovery's 33rd mission and the first night launch since 2002. The 20th shuttle mission to the International Space Station, STS-116 carries another truss segment, P5. It will serve as a spacer, mated to the P4 truss that was attached in September. After installing the P5, the crew will reconfigure and redistribute the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. Landing is expected Dec. 19 at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the STS-116 crew examine components of the mission payload at SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla. From left (in their blue uniforms) around the table are Commander Mark Polansky and Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Christer Fuglesang, Nicholas Patrick, Sunita Williams and Robert Curbeam. In the background is Pilot William Oefelein. The Swedish Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. They are practicing techniques for removing and replacing the rack front stowage trays used inside the SPACEHAB module. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission number 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The crew members of mission STS-116 are suiting up for a second launch attempt at 8:47 p.m. EST from Launch Pad 39B aboard Space Shuttle Discovery. Pictured here is Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham, who will be making her first shuttle flight. The first launch attempt of STS-116 on Dec. 7 was postponed due a low cloud ceiling over Kennedy Space Center. This is Discovery's 33rd mission and the first night launch since 2002. The 20th shuttle mission to the International Space Station, STS-116 carries another truss segment, P5. It will serve as a spacer, mated to the P4 truss that was attached in September. After installing the P5, the crew will reconfigure and redistribute the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. Landing is expected Dec. 19 at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Commander Mark Polansky talks to the media. He and Mission Specialists Sunita Williams, Joan Higginbotham and Nicholas Patrick, Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein, and Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam and Christer Fuglesang have returned to KSC for the terminal countdown demonstration test, which are prelaunch preparations that include a simulated launch countdown. Fugelsang, who is from Sweden, represents the European Space Agency. The mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam poses for the media. The crew has returned to KSC for the terminal countdown demonstration test, which are prelaunch preparations that include a simulated launch countdown. Other crew members are Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Sunita Williams, Nicholas Patrick and Christer Fuglesang, who represents the European Space Agency. The mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The mission crew is at KSC for terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch. The M-113 could be used to move the crew quickly away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency. In the background can be seen Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-116 crew eagerly walks to the Astrovan that will take them to Launch Pad 39B and the simulated countdown. The crew is practicing for launch with a simulation of activities, from crew breakfast and suit-up to countdown in the orbiter. From left are Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Sunita Williams and Nicholas Patrick; Commander Mark Polansky; Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam and Christer Fuglesang; and Pilot William Oefelein. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the STS-116 crew examine components of the mission payload at SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Looking at a stowage bag are, clockwise from left, Pilot William Ofelein and Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang, Robert Curbeam, Nicholas Patrick and Joan Higginbotham. The Swedish Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission number 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang is helmeted and ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. The mission crew is at KSC for terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch. The M-113 could be used to move the crew quickly away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency. In the background is Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 crew members wait for a practice ride in the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The mission crew is at KSC for terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch. On the left are Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick, Christer Fuglesang and Joan Higginbotham, and Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader. Not pictured are Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Sunita Williams and Robert Curbeam. The M-113 could be used to move the crew quickly away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency. The STS-116 mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Expedition 14 Flight Engineer Sunita Williams is greeted by Kennedy Space Center Director Jim Kennedy at the Shuttle Landing Facility. Williams will be traveling to the International Space Station with the STS-116 crew. The crew has returned to KSC for the terminal countdown demonstration test, which are pre-launch preparations that include a simulated launch countdown. Crew members also include Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein, Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick, Robert Curbeam, Christer Fuglesang and Joan Higginbotham. The mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Members of the STS-116 crew examine components of the mission payload at SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla. In the background are Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam, Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham. In the foreground are Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick and Sunita Williams. The Swedish Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. On the table is a rack front stowage tray used inside the SPACEHAB module. Mission crews make frequent trips to the Space Coast to become familiar with the equipment and payloads they will be using. STS-116 will be mission number 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS116-S-002 (21 July 2006) --- These seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-116 crew portrait. Scheduled to launch aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery are, front row (from the left), astronauts William A. Oefelein, pilot; Joan E. Higginbotham, mission specialist; and Mark L. Polansky, commander. On the back row (from the left) are astronauts Robert L. Curbeam, Nicholas J.M. Patrick, Sunita L. Williams and the European Space Agency's Christer Fuglesang, all mission specialists. Williams will join Expedition 14 in progress to serve as a flight engineer aboard the International Space Station. The crewmembers are attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-116 crew members greet well-wishers as they head to the Astrovan that will take them to Launch Pad 39B. Leading the way, at right, is Commander Mark Polansky. The others, from left, are Mission Specialists Sunita Williams, Robert Curbeam, Nicholas Patrick, Christer Fuglesang and Joan Higginbotham; and Pilot William Oefelein. This is the second launch attempt for the crew. The first launch attempt of STS-116 on Dec. 7 was postponed due a low cloud ceiling over Kennedy Space Center. This is Discovery's 33rd mission and the first night launch since 2002. The 20th shuttle mission to the International Space Station, STS-116 carries another truss segment, P5. It will serve as a spacer, mated to the P4 truss that was attached in September. After installing the P5, the crew will reconfigure and redistribute the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. Landing is expected Dec. 19 at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Pilot William Oefelein (left) and Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang are greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach (right) at the Shuttle Landing Facility. The STS-116 crew has returned to KSC for the terminal countdown demonstration test, which are pre-launch preparations that include a simulated launch countdown. The crew also includes Commander Mark Polansky, Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick, Robert Curbeam, Joan Higginbotham and Flight Engineer Sunita Williams, joining Expedition 14 in progress. The mission is No. 20 to the International Space Station and construction flight 12A.1. The mission payload is the SPACEHAB module, the P5 integrated truss structure and other key components. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than Dec. 7. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett