STS-127 Commander Mark Polansky, left, shakes hands with Canadian Ambassador to the United States Michael Wilson after presenting him with a montage as Canadian Space Agency astronaut Julie Payette, seated center, looks on, Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2009, during a visit to the Canadian Embassy in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Paul E. Alers)
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From left, NASA Deputy Associate Administrator for Space Station and Shuttle Programs Michael Kostelnik and United Space Alliance (USA) Vice President and Space Shuttle Program Manager Howard DeCastro are briefed on the properties of the tile used in the Shuttle's Thermal Protection System (TPS) by USA Manager of the TPS Facility Martin Wilson (right). NASA and USA Space Shuttle program management are participating in a leadership workday. The day is intended to provide management with an in-depth, hands-on look at Shuttle processing activities at KSC.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance (USA) Manager of the Thermal Protection System (TPS) Facility Martin Wilson (right) briefs NASA Deputy Associate Administrator for Space Station and Shuttle Programs Michael Kostelnik (left) on the properties of a thermal blanket used in the Shuttle's TPS. NASA and USA Space Shuttle program management are participating in a leadership workday. The day is intended to provide management with an in-depth, hands-on look at Shuttle processing activities at KSC.
S121-E-06134 (8 July 2006) --- Astronaut Lisa M. Nowak (left), Michael E. Fossum and Stephanie D. Wilson, STS-121 mission specialists, enjoy a light moment on the middeck of the Space Shuttle Discovery while docked with the International Space Station.
S121-E-06135 (8 July 2006) --- Astronaut Lisa M. Nowak (left), Michael E. Fossum and Stephanie D. Wilson, STS-121 mission specialists, enjoy a light moment on the middeck of the Space Shuttle Discovery while docked with the International Space Station.
S121-E-08024 (16 July 2006) --- Astronauts Stephanie D. Wilson and Michael E. Fossum, STS-121 mission specialists, pose for a photo on the aft flight deck of the Space Shuttle Discovery. Fossum, a graduate of Texas A&M University, flashes the traditional "Gig 'Em, Aggies!" sign and wears an A&M cap, while UT alumnus Wilson gives the "Hook 'Em, Horns!" sign and wears the Longhorn cap. The two joked about the long-standing rivalry of their respective alma maters and have expressed looking forward to the Nov. 24 matchup between the two Big Twelve powers.
S121-E-05902 (7 July 2006) --- Astronaut Stephanie D. Wilson (center), STS-121 mission specialist, works with the Mobile Service System (MSS) and Canadarm2 controls in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery was docked to the station. Wilson used the station's arm to move the Italian-built Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) from the shuttle cargo bay to install on the station's Unity node. Astronauts Jeffrey N. Williams (foreground), Expedition 13 NASA space station science officer and flight engineer; Michael E. Fossum (top) and Lisa M. Nowak, STS-121 mission specialists, assisted Wilson. The MPLM was successfully latched in place by 7:15 a.m. (CDT) on July 7, 2006.
JSC2006-E-28428 (18 July 2006) --- Johnson Space Center's (JSC) director Michael L. Coats speaks from a lectern in Ellington Field's Hangar 276 near JSC during the STS-121 crew return ceremonies. Seated from the left are astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; Michael E. Fossum, mission specialist; NASA associate administrator Rex Geveden; astronauts Lisa M. Nowak, Stephanie D. Wilson and Piers J. Sellers, mission specialists. Photo credit: NASA
NASA Ames Robotics Academy Interns at the Lunar Science Institute (LSI) building 17 Interns: David Black, Michael Zwach, Guy Chriqui, Mark Mordarski Jr., Katy Levinson, Daniela Buchman, Scott Strutner, Patrick Crownover, Neil Bhateja, Michael Buchman, John Mueller, Michelle Grau, Ben Silver, Jacques Dolan, Alex Golec Windell Jones, Colin Wilson, Joe DeBlasio, Nick Hayes, Jordan Olive, William Shaw, Ames Education Dept., Mark Leon, Ames Robotics, Josh Weiner, jack Biesiadecki, Andrew Pilloud
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From left, United Space Alliance (USA) Manager of the Thermal Protection System (TPS) Facility Martin Wilson briefs NASA Deputy Associate Administrator for Space Station and Shuttle Programs Michael Kostelnik and USA Vice President and Space Shuttle Program Manager Howard DeCastro on aspects of creating the tile used in the Shuttle's TPS. NASA and USA Space Shuttle program management are participating in a leadership workday. The day is intended to provide management with an in-depth, hands-on look at Shuttle processing activities at KSC.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the STS-121 crew kneels for a photo with the vehicle crew. The crew members, recognized by the blue flight suits, are (left to right) Mission Specialists Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum, Commander Steven Lindsey, Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson. The crew is at Kennedy for the crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment they will use on orbit.
S121-E-06025 (8 July 2006) --- Astronauts Mark E. Kelly, STS-121 pilot, and Stephanie D. Wilson (partially out of frame), mission specialist, assist astronaut Michael E. Fossum, mission specialist, with the donning of his Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) spacesuit in the Quest Airlock of the International Space Station prior to the start of the mission's first scheduled session of extravehicular activity (EVA).
STS121-S-002 (5 April 2006) --- These seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-121 crew portrait. From the left are astronauts Stephanie D. Wilson, Michael E. Fossum, both mission specialists; Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Piers J. Sellers, mission specialist; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Thomas Reiter of Germany; and Lisa M. Nowak, both mission specialists. The crewmembers are attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suit.
STS121-S-006 (4 July 2006) --- The STS-121 crewmembers, having donned their shuttle launch and entry suits, wave flags for the Fourth of July as they prepare to board the transfer van awaiting to take them to Launch Pad 39B. Steven W. Lindsey (right front), commander, and Mark E. Kelly, pilot, lead the way. Other crewmembers - Lisa M. Nowak, Michael E. Fossum, Stephanie D. Wilson, Piers J. Sellers and European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Thomas Reiter of Germany - follow.
STS121-S-061 (17 July 2006) --- The STS-121 crew addresses greeters in front of the Space Shuttle Discovery near the landing facility at Kennedy Space Center following NASA's second Return to Flight mission. From left to right are astronauts Piers J. Sellers, Stephanie D. Wilson, Mark E. Kelly, Steven W. Lindsey, Lisa M. Nowak and Michael E. Fossum.
STS121-S-059 (17 July 2006) --- The STS-121 crew poses in front of the Space Shuttle Discovery near the landing facility at Kennedy Space Center following NASA's second Return to Flight mission. From left to right are astronauts Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak, Steven W. Lindsey, Stephanie D. Wilson, Mark E. Kelly and Piers J. Sellers.
S121-E-06248 (9 July 2006) --- The STS-121 crewmembers gather for an in-flight crew photo in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. From the left (bottom) are astronauts Stephanie D. Wilson, mission specialist; Steven W. Lindsey, commander; and Lisa M. Nowak, mission specialist. From the left (top) are astronauts Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, both mission specialists; and Mark E. Kelly, pilot.
STS121-E-079 (17 July 2006) --- The main landing gear of the Space Shuttle Discovery touches down on the KSC landing facility. Onboard are six of the seven astronauts who nearly two weeks earlier had lifted off from the nearby launch complex--astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, Piers J. Sellers, Mark E. Kelly, Michael E. Fossum, Stephanie D. Wilson and Lisa M. Nowak. European Space Agency astronaut Thomas Reiter remained aboard the International Space Station.
ISS013-E-49446 (9 July 2006) --- The STS-121 crewmembers gather for an in-flight crew photo in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. From the left (bottom) are astronauts Stephanie D. Wilson, mission specialist; Steven W. Lindsey, commander; and Lisa M. Nowak, mission specialist. From the left (top) are astronauts Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, both mission specialists; and Mark E. Kelly, pilot.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 Mission Specialist Michael Fossum looks underneath the replacement trailing umbilical system reel assembly that will be installed on the International Space Station. He and other crew members -- Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers -- are at Kennedy to take part in the crew equipment interface test (CEIT).
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- United Space Alliance (USA) Manager of the Thermal Protection System (TPS) Facility Martin Wilson (right) briefs USA Associate Program Manager of Ground Operations Andy Allen (left) and NASA Deputy Associate Administrator for Space Station and Shuttle Programs Michael Kostelnik (center) on the properties of the components used in the Shuttle's TPS. NASA and USA Space Shuttle program management are participating in a leadership workday. The day is intended to provide management with an in-depth, hands-on look at Shuttle processing activities at KSC.
JOHNSON SPACE CENTER, TEXAS -- STS121-S-002 -- These six astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-121 crew portrait. From the left are astronauts Stephanie D. Wilson, Michael E. Fossum, both mission specialists; Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Piers J. Sellers, mission specialist; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; and Lisa M. Nowak, mission specialist. Photo Credit: NASA/JSC
S121-E-05903 (7 July 2006) --- Astronauts Stephanie D. Wilson (center) and Lisa M. Nowak (right), STS-121 mission specialists, work with the Mobile Service System (MSS) and Canadarm2 controls in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery was docked to the station. Wilson and Nowak used the station's arm to move the Italian-built Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM) from the shuttle cargo bay to install on the station's Unity node. Astronauts Jeffrey N. Williams (left), Expedition 13 NASA space station science officer and flight engineer; and Michael E. Fossum (top), STS-121 mission specialist, assisted. The MPLM was successfully latched in place by 7:15 a.m. (CDT) on July 7, 2006.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, the STS-121 crew gets instructions about emergency egress from the pad from Capt. George Hoggard (left), who is astronaut rescue team leader. Crew members are (from left) Mission Specialist Piers Sellers, Pilot Mark Kelly, Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson and Lisa Nowak, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Thomas Reiter and Michael Fossum. Part of the training will be driving an M-113, which is an armored personnel carrier. Mission STS-121 is designated for launch on July 1. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After their arrival at KSC to prepare for launch on July 1, the STS-121 crew greets the media on the Shuttle Landing Facility. At the microphone is Pilot Mark Kelly. From left are Commander Steven Lindsey, Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak and Michael Fossum, Kelly, and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. This mission is the 115th shuttle flight and the 18th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., the STS-121 crew poses for a photo. From left are Pilot Mark Kelly, Mission Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum. The STS-121 crew is at KSC to take part in Crew Equipment Interface Test activities, which provide hands-on experience with equipment they will use on-orbit. STS-121, the second Return to Flight mission, is targeted for launch in a lighted planning window of Sept. 9 to Sept. 25.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 Commander Steven Lindsey gets a close look at the wing leading edge of Discovery, the launch vehicle for the mission. He and other crew members -- Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson, Michael Fossum and Piers Sellers -- are at Kennedy for a crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment they will use on orbit. Launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for no earlier than May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
These seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-121 crew portrait. From the left are mission specialists Stephanie D. Wilson, and Michael E. Fossum, Commander Steven W. Lindsey, mission specialist Piers J. Sellers, pilot Mark E. Kelly; European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut and mission specialist Thomas Reiter of Germany; and mission specialist Lisa M. Nowak. The crew members are attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suit. The crew, first ever to launch on Independence Day, tested new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as delivered supplies and made repairs to the space station.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew for mission STS-121 is taking part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT) inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Seen here (left to right) are Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Stephanie Wilson and Lisa Nowak looking at the trailing umbilical system reel assembly that will be installed on the International Space Station. A CEIT provides hands-on experiences with equipment used on-orbit. Mission STS-121 is the second in the Return to Flight sequence and will carry on improvements that debuted during last year's STS-114 mission and build upon those tests. Launch is scheduled in July. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The suited STS-121 crew members walk to the bus that will take them to Launch Pad 39B for a simulated countdown. On the left, back to front, are Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson and Lisa Nowak, and Pilot Mark Kelly. On the right, back to front, are Mission Specialists Thomas Reiter of Germany, Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum, and Commander Steven Lindsey. Reiter represents the European Space Agency. The crew is taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including the dress rehearsal for launch. Mission STS-121 is scheduled to be launched July 1. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak gets a close look at the wing leading edge of Discovery, the launch vehicle for the mission. She and other crew members -- Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Michael Fossum and Piers Sellers -- are at Kennedy for a crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment they will use on orbit. Launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for no earlier than May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 Mission Specialist Michael Fossum handles a working prototype of a camera that will be used on the mission. He and other crew members -- Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers -- are at Kennedy for a crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment they will use on orbit. Launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for no earlier than May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, members of the STS-121 crew practice working with equipment for the mission. From the left are Tomas Gonzalez-Torres, with NASA's Johnson Space Center; then Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum. Pilot Mark Kelly has his back to the camera. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment to be used on-orbit. Launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled no earlier than May.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The crew for mission STS-121 is taking part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT) inside the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Looking at the trailing umbilical system reel assembly that will be installed on the International Space Station are Mission Specialists Michael Fossum (on ladder), Lisa Nowak and Stephanie Wilson (below Fossum on floor). A CEIT provides hands-on experiences with equipment used on-orbit. Mission STS-121 is the second in the Return to Flight sequence and will carry on improvements that debuted during last year's STS-114 mission and build upon those tests. Launch is scheduled in July. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson (left) and Lisa Nowak learn from technicians the work that has been done on Discovery, the launch vehicle for the mission. They and other crew members -- Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum and Piers Sellers -- are at Kennedy for a crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment they will use on orbit. Launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for no earlier than May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the television studio at NASA Kennedy Space Center, the STS-121 crew answers questions during a media conference. Seated from left are Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers. The seventh crew member, Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter, did not attend. The crew is at NASA Kennedy Space Center for the crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experiences with equipment used on-orbit. The launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 crew members look at panel assemblies that hold laptop computers in place while in space. From left are Pilot Mark E. Kelly, Commander Steven W. Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, Lisa Nowak and Stephanie Wilson. STS-121 is the second Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. During CEIT, the crew has an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the orbiter and equipment they will be working with on their mission. Mission STS-121 is scheduled to launch aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis in July.
STS121-S-054 (17 July 2006) --- Space Shuttle Discovery's main landing gear touches down on runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at 9:14 a.m. (EDT) on July 17, 2006. Onboard were astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak and Stephanie D. Wilson, all mission specialists. During the nearly 13-day mission, the STS-121 crew tested new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, and delivered supplies and made repairs to the International Space Station.
STS121-S-005 (4 July 2006) --- The STS-121 crewmembers, having donned their shuttle launch and entry suits, wave flags for the Fourth of July as they head out of the Operations and Checkout Building at Kennedy Space Center to the transfer van awaiting to take them to Launch Pad 39B. Steven W. Lindsey (right front), commander, and Mark E. Kelly, pilot, lead the way. Other crewmembers - Lisa M. Nowak, Michael E. Fossum, Stephanie D. Wilson, Piers J. Sellers and European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Thomas Reiter of Germany - follow.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of the STS-121 crew look at Discovery, the launch vehicle for the mission. From left are Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak and Stephanie Wilson, and Pilot Mark Kelly. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the crew equipment interface test (CEIT), which provides hands-on experience with equipment they will use on orbit. Launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for no earlier than May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew concludes emergency egress practice from Launch Pad 39B with a photo at the top of the fixed service structure. From left are Mission Specialists Michael Fossum and Thomas Reiter, Pilot Mark Kelly, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers. Reiter is from Germany and represents the European Space Agency. The crew has been taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities that include a simulated countdown culminating in main engine cutoff. Mission STS-121 is scheduled to be launched July 1. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew have breakfast in the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center before suiting up for the simulated countdown at the launch pad. Seated left to right are Mission Specialists Thomas Reiter of Germany and Michael Fossum, Pilot Mark Kelly, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Piers Sellers and Stephanie Wilson. Reiter represents the European Space Agency. The crew is taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including the dress rehearsal for launch. Mission STS-121 is scheduled to be launched July 1. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
STS121-S-055 (17 July 2006) --- Space Shuttle Discovery's main landing gear touches down on runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at 9:14 a.m. (EDT) on July 17, 2006. Onboard were astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak and Stephanie D. Wilson, all mission specialists. During the nearly 13-day mission, the STS-121 crew tested new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, and delivered supplies and made repairs to the International Space Station.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak and Commander Steven Lindsey take a close look at the wing leading edge of Discovery, the launch vehicle for the mission. They and other crew members -- Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Michael Fossum and Piers Sellers -- are at Kennedy for a crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment they will use on orbit. Launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for no earlier than May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the traditional post-flight walk-around after the landing of an orbiter, Mission Specialists Piers Sellers, Michael Fossum and Stephanie Wilson get a close look at the nose cone, behind them. Discovery's smooth and perfect landing was on time at 9:14 a.m. EDT on Runway 15 of NASA's Shuttle Landing Facility after traveling 5.3 million miles on 202 orbits. Mission elapsed time was 12 days, 18 hours, 37 minutes and 54 seconds. The landing is the 62nd at Kennedy Space Center and the 32nd for Discovery. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
JSC2010-E-055398 (21 April 2010) --- Dr. Kuniaki Shiraki, executive director, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), addresses a large crowd of well-wishers at the STS-131 crew return ceremony on April 21, 2010 at Ellington Field near NASA?s Johnson Space Center. Also pictured (seated from the left) are JSC director Michael L. Coats (mostly obscured), NASA astronauts Alan Poindexter, commander; James P. Dutton Jr., pilot; Rick Mastracchio, Dorothy Metcalf-Lindenburger, Stephanie Wilson, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Naoko Yamazaki and NASA astronaut Clayton Anderson, all mission specialists.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew stands for a photo in front of the Vehicle Assembly Building after a media conference. From left are Mission Specialist Piers Sellers, Pilot Mark Kelly, Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson and Lisa Nowak, Commander Steven Lindsey and Mission Specialist Michael Fossum. The remaining member of the crew, not pictured, is Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter. The crew is at NASA Kennedy Space Center for the crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experiences with equipment used on-orbit. The launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the television studio at NASA Kennedy Space Center, the STS-121 crew answers questions during a media conference. Seated from left are Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers. The seventh crew member, Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter, did not attend. The crew is at NASA Kennedy Space Center for the crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experiences with equipment used on-orbit. The launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Some of the STS-121 crew practices getting into a slidewire basket on Launch Pad 39B. At left is Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak; in front of her is Mission Specialist Michael Fossum. In the background are Commander Steven Lindsey and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Thomas Reiter and Piers Sellers. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including emergency egress training from the pad. They will also suit up in their orange flight suits for a simulated countdown to launch. Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
STS121-S-056 (17 July 2006) --- With drag chute deployed, Space Shuttle Discovery slows to a stop after landing on runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at 9:14 a.m. (EDT) on July 17, 2006. Onboard were astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak and Stephanie D. Wilson, all mission specialists. During the nearly 13-day mission, the STS-121 crew tested new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, and delivered supplies and made repairs to the International Space Station.
STS121-S-057 (17 July 2006) --- Space Shuttle Discovery slows to a stop after landing on runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at 9:14 a.m. (EDT) on July 17, 2006. Onboard were astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak and Stephanie D. Wilson, all mission specialists. During the nearly 13-day mission, the STS-121 crew tested new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, and delivered supplies and made repairs to the International Space Station.
JSC2006-E-32815 (3 Aug. 2006) --- The crew of STS-121 attended opening day of the 12th "X Games" in Los Angeles Aug. 3, discussing their recent mission to the International Space Station with students and athletes. From left to right are astronauts Piers J. Sellers, Stephanie D. Wilson, Steven W. Lindsey, Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak and Mark E. Kelly. In the background is the signature 80 foot high "Big Air Jump" skateboarding ramp - one of the event highlights. The crew's visit also included presentations at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the California Science Center.
STS121-S-052 (17 July 2006) --- Space Shuttle Discovery, with commander Steven W. Lindsey at the helm, approaches runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at 9:14 a.m. (EDT) on July 17, 2006. Also onboard were astronauts Mark E. Kelly, pilot; Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak and Stephanie D. Wilson, all mission specialists. During the nearly 13-day mission, the STS-121 crew tested new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, and delivered supplies and made repairs to the International Space Station.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After their arrival at KSC to prepare for launch on July 1, the STS-121 crew greets the media on the Shuttle Landing Facility. From left are Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak and Michael Fossum, Pilot Mark Kelly, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. This mission is the 115th shuttle flight and the 18th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
S121-E-06315 (10 July 2006) --- Astronauts Piers J. Sellers (right) and Michael E. Fossum, both STS-121 mission specialists, attired in their Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) spacesuits, along with cosmonaut Pavel V. Vinogradov (center left), Expedition 13 commander representing Russia's Federal Space Agency; astronauts Mark E. Kelly and Stephanie D. Wilson, STS-121 pilot and mission specialist, respectively, pause for a moment for a photo as they prepare for the start of the mission's second scheduled session of extravehicular activity (EVA) in the Quest Airlock of the International Space Station.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Mission Specialists Michael E. Fossum (left) and Piers J. Sellers, Ph.D., (right) open the SPACEHAB Oceaneering Enhanced Deployable box. Looking on are Mission Specialist Stephanie D. Wilson, Pilot Mark E. Kelly, Mission Specialist Lisa M. Nowak and Commander Steven W. Lindsey. The astronauts of the second Return to Flight mission, STS-121, were at the SPACEHAB facility in Cape Canaveral to participate in the Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT). This test allows the astronauts to become familiar with equipment they will be using on their upcoming mission. STS-121 is scheduled to launch in July aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew stands for a photo in front of the Vehicle Assembly Building after a media conference. From left are Mission Specialist Piers Sellers, Pilot Mark Kelly, Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson and Lisa Nowak, Commander Steven Lindsey and Mission Specialist Michael Fossum. The remaining member of the crew, not pictured, is Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter. The crew is at NASA Kennedy Space Center for the crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experiences with equipment used on-orbit. The launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, the STS-121 crew receives a briefing and up-close look beneath Space Shuttle Atlantis at the handheld cameras they will carry into space. From left, in the blue flight suits, are Mission Specialists Stephanie D. Wilson and Michael E. Fossum, Pilot Mark E. Kelly and Commander Steven W. Lindsey. The astronauts of the second Return to Flight mission, STS-121, are at Kennedy Space Center to participate in the Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT). During CEIT, the crew has an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the orbiter and equipment they will be working with on their mission. Mission STS-121 is scheduled to launch in July.
JSC2010-E-055399 (21 April 2010) --- NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) director Michael L. Coats (left) and the STS-131 crew members are pictured at the STS-131 crew return ceremony on April 21, 2010 at Ellington Field near JSC. Pictured from the second left are NASA astronauts Alan Poindexter, commander; James P. Dutton Jr., pilot; Rick Mastracchio, Dorothy Metcalf-Lindenburger, Stephanie Wilson, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Naoko Yamazaki and NASA astronaut Clayton Anderson, all mission specialists.
JOHNSON SPACE CENTER, TEXAS - STS121-S-002 (5 April 2006) --- These seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-121 crew portrait. From the left are astronauts Stephanie D. Wilson, Michael E. Fossum, both mission specialists; Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Piers J. Sellers, mission specialist; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Thomas Reiter of Germany; and Lisa M. Nowak, both mission specialists. The crewmembers are attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suit.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew gets a close look at the underside of the orbiter Discovery after landing. Seen are (from left) Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson, Commander Steven Lindsey and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak and Michael Fossum. The post-flight walk-around is a tradition. Discovery's smooth and perfect landing was on time at 9:14 a.m. EDT on Runway 15 of NASA's Shuttle Landing Facility after traveling 5.3 million miles on 202 orbits. Mission elapsed time was 12 days, 18 hours, 37 minutes and 54 seconds. The landing is the 62nd at Kennedy Space Center and the 32nd for Discovery. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 crew members are opening Window Shade bag for review. From left are Commander Steven W. Lindsey, Mission Specialist Michael E. Fossum and Pilot Mark E. Kelly. Behind them, at right, are Mission Specialists Piers J. Sellers and Stephanie Wilson. STS-121 is the second Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. During CEIT, the crew has an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the orbiter and equipment they will be working with on their mission. Mission STS-121 is scheduled to launch aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis in July.
JSC2010-E-055430 (21 April 2010) --- NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) director Michael L. Coats (center background) and the STS-131 crew members are pictured at the STS-131 crew return ceremony on April 21, 2010 at Ellington Field near JSC. Pictured from the left are NASA astronauts Alan Poindexter, commander; James P. Dutton Jr., pilot; Rick Mastracchio, Dorothy Metcalf-Lindenburger, Stephanie Wilson, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Naoko Yamazaki and NASA astronaut Clayton Anderson, all mission specialists.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After their arrival at KSC to prepare for launch on July 1, the STS-121 crew greets the media on the Shuttle Landing Facility. At the microphone is Mission Specialist Piers Sellers. From left are Commander Steven Lindsey, Mission Specialist Michael Fossum, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Sellers, Stephanie Wilson and Thomas Reiter. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. This mission is the 115th shuttle flight and the 18th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, STS-121 Mission Specialist Michael Fossum (left) talks to Tomas Gonzalez-Torres, with NASA's Johnson Space Center, about the equipment he is handling. Next to Fossum is Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment to be used on-orbit. Launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled no earlier than May.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Some of the STS-121 crew practices getting into a slidewire basket on Launch Pad 39B while others watch. In the basket are Mission Specialists Piers Sellers, Stephanie Wilson and Thomas Reiter. Behind them are Commander Steven Lindsey, Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak and Michael Fossum, and Pilot Mark Kelly. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including emergency egress training from the pad. They will also suit up in their orange flight suits for a simulated countdown to launch. Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The suited STS-121 crew members stride out of the Operations and Checkout Building on their way to Launch Pad 39B for a simulated countdown. Leading the way are Pilot Mark Kelly (left) and Commander Steven Lindsey. Behind Kelly are Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Thomas Reiter of Germany, who represents the European Space Agency. Behind Lindsey are Mission Specialists Michael Fossum and Piers Sellers. The crew is taking part in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including the dress rehearsal for launch. Mission STS-121 is scheduled to be launched July 1. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
STS121-S-053 (17 July 2006) --- Space Shuttle Discovery's main landing gear is about to touch down on runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at 9:14 a.m. (EDT) on July 17, 2006. Onboard were astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak and Stephanie D. Wilson, all mission specialists. During the nearly 13-day mission, the STS-121 crew tested new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, and delivered supplies and made repairs to the International Space Station.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In NASA Kennedy Space Center's Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, members of the STS-121 crew practice working with equipment for the mission. Starting from left are Tomas Gonzalez-Torres, with NASA's Johnson Space Center; Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum. The crew is at Kennedy to take part in the crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment to be used on-orbit. Launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled no earlier than May.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Inside the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak photographs Discovery, the launch vehicle for the mission, during a training session. She and other crew members -- Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Michael Fossum and Piers Sellers -- are at Kennedy for a crew equipment interface test, which provides hands-on experience with equipment they will use on orbit. Launch of STS-121, the second return-to-flight mission, is scheduled for no earlier than May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 crew members are testing the ergometer that will be used for exercising while in space. Seen in the photo are (center left) Commander Steven W. Lindsey and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Michael E. Fossum and Piers J. Sellers. STS-121 is the second Return to Flight mission to the International Space Station. During CEIT, the crew has an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the orbiter and equipment they will be working with on their mission. Mission STS-121 is scheduled to launch aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis in July.
STS121-S-050 (17 July 2006) --- Space Shuttle Discovery's main landing gear touches down on runway 15 at Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility at 9:14 a.m. (EDT) on July 17, 2006. Onboard were astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, commander; Mark E. Kelly, pilot; Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak and Stephanie D. Wilson, all mission specialists. During the nearly 13-day mission, the STS-121 crew tested new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, and delivered supplies and made repairs to the International Space Station.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew strides out of the Operations and Checkout Building after suiting up for launch today on Space Shuttle Discovery. On the left column from back to front are Mission Specialists Thomas Reiter, Stephanie Wilson and Lisa Nowak, and Pilot Mark Kelly. On the right column from back to front are Mission Specialists Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum, with Commander Steven Lindsey leading the way. The launch is the 115th shuttle flight and the 18th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. Photo courtesy of Nikon/Scott Andrews
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA Kennedy Space Center, members of the STS-121 crew take part in the crew equipment interface test (CEIT). Seen here with Vehicle Integration Test officer Betsy Ahearn (center) are (from left) Mission Specialist Michael Fossum, Pilot Mark Kelly, Commander Steven Lindsey and Mission Specialist Piers Sellers. Other crew members not seen are Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak and Stephanie Wilson. The CEIT provides hands-on experiences with equipment used on-orbit. Mission STS-121 is the second in the Return to Flight sequence and will carry on improvements that debuted during last year's STS-114 mission and build upon those tests. Launch is scheduled in May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew pause in their prelaunch activities to talk to the media. They are standing in the landing area of the slidewire baskets. With the microphone is Pilot Mark Kelly. The crew members are (from left) Mission Specialists Michael Fossum and Lisa Nowak, Kelly, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter of Germany, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew displays the spirit of the Fourth of July holiday with their flags and their eagerness to launch as they stride out of the Operations and Checkout Building. Leading the way are Pilot Mark Kelly (left) and Commander Steven Lindsey (right). Behind them are Mission Specialists (second row) Lisa Nowak and Michael Fossum; (third row) Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers; and (at the rear) Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. The July 2 launch attempt was scrubbed due to the presence of showers and thunderstorms within the surrounding area of the launch site. The launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121 is the 115th shuttle flight and the 18th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
S121-E-06239 (9 July 2006) --- The STS-121 (green shirts) and Expedition 13 crewmembers gather for a group photo in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station. From the left (front row) are European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Thomas Reiter of Germany, Expedition 13 flight engineer; cosmonaut Pavel V. Vinogradov, commander representing Russia's Federal Space Agency; and astronaut Jeffrey N. Williams, NASA space station science officer and flight engineer. From the left (middle row) are astronauts Stephanie D. Wilson, STS-121 mission specialist; Steven W. Lindsey, commander; and Lisa M. Nowak, mission specialist. From the left (back row) are astronauts Piers J. Sellers, Michael E. Fossum, both mission specialists; and Mark E. Kelly, pilot.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-121 Mission Commander Steven Lindsey is the first of the crew to exit the crew transport vehicle brought alongside the orbiter Discovery after landing. Behind him can be seen Mission Specialist Michael Fossum. The rest of the crew are Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Piers Sellers, Lisa Nowak and Stephanie Wilson. Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter, who launched with the crew on July 4, remained on the station to join the Expedition 13 crew there. Discovery's smooth and perfect landing was on time at 9:14 a.m. EDT on Runway 15 of NASA's Shuttle Landing Facility after traveling 5.3 million miles on 202 orbits. Mission elapsed time was 12 days, 18 hours, 37 minutes and 54 seconds. The landing is the 62nd at Kennedy Space Center and the 32nd for Discovery. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew pause in their prelaunch activities to talk to the media, gathered at left. They are standing in the landing area of the slidewire baskets. The crew members facing them are (from left) Mission Specialists Thomas Reiter of Germany, who represents the European Space Agency, Piers Sellers, Stephanie Wilson, Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak and Michael Fossum. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, Mission Commander Steven Lindsey pauses at a microphone to introduce the crew. Joining him are Mission Specialist Michael Fossum, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak (partly visible at left), Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at the space center to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following training in the M-113 armored personnel carrier, the STS-121 crew pose for a photo with Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader. From left are Pilot Mark Kelly, Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak, Hoggard, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Stephanie Wilson, Thomas Reiter and Piers Sellers. Reiter is from Germany and represents the European Space Agency. The STS-121 crew is taking turns driving the M-113 as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency egress training from the pad and a simulated countdown. Mission STS-121 is designated for launch on July 1. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, the STS-121 crew gathers at a microphone for the media. Seen here at center is Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak; at left is Pilot Mark Kelly. Other crew members are Mission Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at the space center to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew pause in their prelaunch activities to talk to the media. They are standing in the landing area of the slidewire baskets. At the microphone is Commander Steven Lindsey. Behind him are (from left) Mission Specialists Michael Fossum and Lisa Nowak, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter of Germany, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After their arrival at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the STS-121 crew poses for a photo. From left are Mission Specialist Michael Fossum, Pilot Mark Kelly, Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak, Commander Steven Lindsey and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter from Germany, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at the space center to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, the STS-121 crew gathers at a microphone for the media. Seen here at center is Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson; at right is Piers Sellers. Other crew members are Mission Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak and Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at the space center to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
S121-E-07024 (13 July 2006) --- European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Thomas Reiter (bottom center), Expedition 13 flight engineer, and the STS-121 crewmembers pose in "star-burst" formation for an in-flight portrait in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery was docked with the station. Clockwise, around the circle from Reiter, are astronauts Michael E. Fossum, Lisa M. Nowak, both mission specialists; Steven W. Lindsey and Mark E. Kelly, commander and pilot, respectively; Stephanie D. Wilson and Piers J. Sellers, mission specialists. Reiter launched on the Space Shuttle Discovery with the STS-121 crew and officially became an Expedition 13 crewmember after the shuttle docked with the station.
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 Mission Specialist Piers Sellers practices working with the replacement trailing umbilical system reel assembly that will be installed on the International Space Station. He and other crew members -- Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Michael Fossum -- are at Kennedy to take part in the crew equipment interface test (CEIT). The CEIT provides hands-on experiences with equipment used on-orbit. Mission STS-121 is the second in the Return to Flight sequence and will carry on improvements that debuted during last year's STS-114 mission and build upon those tests. Launch is scheduled in May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During a break in the rain storms from Tropical Storm Alberto, the STS-121 crew arrives at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Greeting the crew is Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach, here shaking hands with Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. Other crew members are Mission Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Piers Sellers, Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak and Stephanie Wilson. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Following the traditional post-flight walk-around after the landing of an orbiter, the STS-121 crew pose for a photo in front of Discovery. From left are Mission Specialists Michael Fossum and Lisa Nowak, Commander Steven Lindsey, Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialist Piers Sellers. Discovery's smooth and perfect landing was on time at 9:14 a.m. EDT on Runway 15 of NASA's Shuttle Landing Facility after traveling 5.3 million miles on 202 orbits. Mission elapsed time was 12 days, 18 hours, 37 minutes and 54 seconds. The landing is the 62nd at Kennedy Space Center and the 32nd for Discovery. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew pause in their prelaunch activities to talk to the media. They are standing in the landing area of the slidewire baskets. With the microphone is Mission Specialist Piers Sellers. The crew members are (from left) Mission Specialists Michael Fossum and Lisa Nowak, Pilot Mark Kelly, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Sellers, and Thomas Reiter of Germany, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA Kennedy Space Center, STS-121 Mission Specialist Piers Sellers practices working with the replacement trailing umbilical system reel assembly that will be installed on the International Space Station. He and other crew members -- Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Michael Fossum -- are at Kennedy to take part in the crew equipment interface test (CEIT). The CEIT provides hands-on experiences with equipment used on-orbit. Mission STS-121 is the second in the Return to Flight sequence and will carry on improvements that debuted during last year's STS-114 mission and build upon those tests. Launch is scheduled in May. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - For the second time in two days, the STS-121 crew heads for the Astrovan to take them to Launch Pad 39B and launch of Space Shuttle Discovery. On the left side, from left, are Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson and Lisa Nowak, and Pilot Mark Kelly. On the right side, left to right, are Mission Specialists Thomas Reiter, Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum, and Commander Steven Lindsey. The first launch attempt July 1 was scrubbed due to weather concerns and postponed 24 hours. The launch is the 115th shuttle flight and the 18th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, the STS-121 crew gathers at a microphone for the media. Seen here is Mission Specialist Thomas Reiter from Germany, who represents the European Space Agency. Other crew members are Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers. The crew is at the space center to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, the STS-121 crew gathers at a microphone for the media. Mission Commander Steven Lindsey is introducing the crew, from left: Mission Specialist Michael Fossum, Pilot Mark Kelly, Mission Specialist Lisa Nowak, Lindsey, Mission Specialists Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at the space center to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Several hours after their successful landing at Kennedy Space Center aboard the orbiter Discovery, the crew of mission STS-121 address questions from the media about their experiences on the shuttle and the International Space Station. Seated at the conference table are (from left) Commander Steven Lindsey, Pilot Mark Kelly and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers. Discovery traveled 5.3 million miles, landing on orbit 202. Mission elapsed time was 12 days, 18 hours, 37 minutes and 54 seconds. During the nearly 13-day mission, the STS-121 crew tested new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, and delivered supplies and made repairs to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - For the second morning in a row, the STS-121 crew sit for their traditional breakfast before suiting up for launch. Seated from left are Mission Specialists Piers Sellers and Michael Fossum, Pilot Mark Kelly, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialists Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. The first launch attempt July 1 was scrubbed due to weather concerns and postponed 24 hours. The launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121 is the 115th shuttle flight and the 18th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA Administrator Mike Griffin talks with Commander Steven Lindsey (gesturing) after the crew looked over the orbiter Discovery, above them. Between Griffin and Lindsey are Mission Specialists Michael Fossum and Lisa Nowak. Mission Specialist Stephanie Wilson is behind Lindsey; Associate Administrator Rex Geveden is at right. The post-flight walk-around is a tradition. Discovery's smooth and perfect landing was on time at 9:14 a.m. EDT on Runway 15 of NASA's Shuttle Landing Facility after traveling 5.3 million miles on 202 orbits. Mission elapsed time was 12 days, 18 hours, 37 minutes and 54 seconds. The landing is the 62nd at Kennedy Space Center and the 32nd for Discovery. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-121 crew listens to instructions on emergency egress from the pad. The crew members are (from left) Pilot Mark Kelly, Mission Specialists Piers Sellers, Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson and Thomas Reiter, Commander Steven Lindsey, and Mission Specialist Michael Fossum. Reiter is from Germany and represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at Kennedy for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, including emergency egress training from the pad. They will also suit up in their orange flight suits for a simulated countdown to launch. Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Waving flags for the Fourth of July, the STS-121 crew heads for the Astrovan and the ride to Launch Pad 39B for a third launch attempt. Leading the way are Pilot Mark Kelly (left) and Commander Steven Lindsey (right). Behind them are, left and right, Mission Specialists (second row) Lisa Nowak and Michael Fossum; (third row) Stephanie Wilson and Piers Sellers; and (at the rear) Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. The July 2 launch attempt was scrubbed due to the presence of showers and thunderstorms within the surrounding area of the launch site. The launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on mission STS-121 is the 115th shuttle flight and the 18th U.S. flight to the International Space Station. During the 12-day mission, the STS-121 crew will test new equipment and procedures to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After landing at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard a Grumman G2 aircraft, the STS-121 crew gathers at a microphone for the media. Seen here at center is Pilot Mark Kelly. Other crew members are Mission Commander Steven Lindsey and Mission Specialists Michael Fossum, Lisa Nowak, Stephanie Wilson, Piers Sellers and Thomas Reiter, who represents the European Space Agency. The crew is at the space center to take part in a Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Over several days, the crew will practice emergency egress from the pad and suit up in their orange flight suits for the simulated countdown to launch. Space Shuttle Discovery is designated to launch July 1 on mission STS-121. It will carry supplies to the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett