KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick moves in close for a better look at the port integrated truss structure, P5, which is the primary payload on the mission. The crew is taking part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test that enables them 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) 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. -- 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. - Inside Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., STS-116 Mission Specialists Sunita Williams and Nicholas Patrick are inspecting flight hardware during the 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

Mechanical technicians, Nicholas Kwiatkowski and Thomas Huber, guide the Ocean Color Instrument (OCI) as it is suspended on a crane to install an adapter plate and for additional integration operations. OCI is a highly advanced optical spectrometer that will be used to measure properties of light over portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. It will enable continuous measurement of light at finer wavelength resolution than previous NASA satellite sensors, extending key system ocean color data records for climate studies. OCI is PACE's (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) primary sensor built at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick is helped putting on his helmet during suit fit-check, 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., (from left) a technician reviews procedures with STS-116 Mission Specialists Joan Higgenbotham, Sunita Williams and Nicholas Patrick 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 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. -- 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 Nicholas Patrick puts on his 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. - 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. - 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. - Inside Astrotech Space Operations in Titusville, Fla., STS-116 Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick and Sunita Williams are inspecting flight hardware during the 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

Mechanical technicians, Nicholas Kwaitkowski, Tyere Garner, and Gary Sheridon, use a flashlight to check for clearances between the Tilt Mechanism and the Ocean Color Instrument (OCI). OCI is a highly advanced optical spectrometer that will be used to measure properties of light over portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. It will enable continuous measurement of light at finer wavelength resolution than previous NASA satellite sensors, extending key system ocean color data records for climate studies. OCI is PACE's (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, ocean Ecosystem) primary sensor built at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the white room on Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick is helped with his 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 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. -- 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. - From left, STS-116 Mission Specialists Sunita Williams and Nicholas Patrick and Commander Mark Polansky inspect flight hardware at the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility at Port Canaveral, Fla., 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. - During a Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT) in the Orbiter Processing Facility, STS-116 crew members check out the payload bay of the orbiter Discovery. Seen here, Mission Specialists Sunita Williams and Nicholas Patrick are in the region of the mid-body. 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 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. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick checks the fit of his gloves during suit fit-check, 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. -- 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 Nicholas Patrick dons his launch suit 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. -- 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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On their way to the white room on Launch Pad 39B to enter Space Shuttle Discovery, Commander Mark Polansky (right) and Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick are greeted by the closeout crew. The STS-116 mission crew practices for launch with a simulation of activities, from 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/Amanda Diller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - From left, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, Deputy Director William Parsons and Discovery Flow Director Stephanie Stilson greet STS-116 Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam and Nicholas Patrick after they arrive for 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 Nicholas Patrick has donned his launch suit for a fit-check, 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. -- 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 (from left) Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam and Nicholas Patrick, Pilot William Oefelein and Commander Mark Polansky. 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. -- 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 Orbiter Processing Facility, members of the STS-116 crew discuss use of some of the flight hardware during the Crew Equipment Interface Test. Seen here are (from left) Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam, Christer Fugelsang and Nicholas Patrick. Fugelsang represents the European Space Agency. 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. -- 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

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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Mission STS-116 crew members participate in the Crew Equipment Interface Test at the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility at Port Canaveral, Fla. From left are Mission Specialists Joan Higgenbotham, Nicholas Patrick and Sunita Willams. Behind them are Commander Mark Polansky and Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang, who is with 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 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 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

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. -- 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. -- 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. - 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. -- 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. - Inside the SPACEHAB Payload Processing Facility, at Port Canaveral, Fla., mission STS-116 crew members inspect flight hardware during the Crew Equipment Interface Test. From left are Mission Specialists Joan Higgenbotham, Nicholas Patrick, Sunita Williams and Christer Fuglesang, who is with the European Space Agency. Behind Fuglesang is Commander Mark Polansky. 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. -- From the 195-foot level of the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39B, STS-116 Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick sit in a slidewire basket, part of the emergency egress system. Behind him in the basket is Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam. He and other crew members are practicing the procedure to get off the pad that are part of the prelaunch preparations known as terminal countdown demonstration test. The TCDT includes a simulated launch countdown and payload familiarization. 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 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. -- 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

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-116 crew pause in their prelaunch activities to talk to the media at Launch Pad 39B. Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang has the microphone to answer a question. The other crew members are, from left, Commander Mark Polansky, Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Robert Curbeam, Nicholas Patrick, (Fuglesang) and Sunita Williams, and Pilot William Oefelein. 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 pause in their prelaunch activities to talk to the media at Launch Pad 39B. With the microphone, at left, is Commander Mark Polansky. The other crew members are, from left, Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Robert Curbeam, Nicholas Patrick, Christer Fuglesang and Sunita Williams, and Pilot William Oefelein. 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 pause in their prelaunch activities to talk to the media (foreground) at Launch Pad 39B. Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick has the microphone to answer a question. From left, the crew members are Commander Mark Polansky, Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Robert Curbeam, Patrick, Christer Fuglesang and Sunita Williams, and Pilot William Oefelein. 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. -- STS-116 crew gets instructions on use of the M-113 armored personnel carrier from Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader. The crew members, clockwise from left, are Commander Mark Polansky, Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam, Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Nicholas Patrick, Christer Fuglesang, Sunita Williams and Joan Higginbotham. 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. 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. From left are Pilot William Ofelein and Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang, Robert Curbeam and Nicholas Patrick. In the foreground at left is Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham. The Swedish Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. They are practicing opening a stowage bag. 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. -- After arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Pilot William Oefelein 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 and Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Sunita Williams, Nicholas Patrick, Christer Fuglesang and Robert Curbeam. Fuglesang, 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. -- STS-116 Mission Specialists Sunita Williams (left) and Joan Higginbotham listen to instructions on use of the M-113 armored personnel carrier that could be used to move them quickly away from the launch pad in the event of an emergency. The mission crew is at KSC for terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT) activities that are preparation for launch. Other crew members are Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam, Nicholas Patrick 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. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick 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 Patrick, at right, are Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Sunita Williams 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. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang practices 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. At left of Fuglesang is Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader. Other crew members on the M-113, behind Hoggard, are Mission Specialist Sunita Williams, Pilot William Oefelein and Nicholas Patrick. 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. - At SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla., the STS-116 crew poses with the workers during a familiarization period. On the stairs, 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 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, Joan Higginbotham and Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader. On the right are (left to right) Commander Mark Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialist Sunita Williams. Not in the picture is Mission Specialist 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. -- After arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham 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 Sunita Williams, Nicholas Patrick, Christer Fuglesang and Robert Curbeam. Fuglesang, 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. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham (right) is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach (left) and Kennedy Space Center Director Jim Kennedy 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. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility, STS-116 crew members get a close look at the underside of the orbiter Discovery. The astronauts are, from left, Commander Mark Polansky, Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham and Nicholas Patrick, Pilot William Oefelein, and Mission Specialists Christer Fugelsang, who represents the European Space Agency, and Sunita Williams. 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. -- STS-116 Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham cheers her success at driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier away from Launch Pad 39B. Behind her is Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader; at right are Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang and Nicholas Patrick. 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. - At SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla., STS-116 crew members get a close look at the Treadmill Vibration Isolation System Gyroscope during equipment familiarization. The block of foam is what the replacement gyro will be stowed in inside the SPACEHAB module. In uniform from left are Pilot William Oefelein and Mission Specialists Christer Fuglesang, Nicholas Patrick, Joan Higginbotham and Sunita Williams. In the background at right is Commander Mark Polansky. Fuglesang, from Sweden, 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. -- The STS-116 crew walks out of the Operations and Checkout Building on their way to Launch Pad 39B during the terminal countdown demonstration test. The crew is practicing for launch with a simulation of activities, from crew breakfast and suit-up to countdown in the orbiter. Leading the way are Commander Mark Polansky (right) and Mission Specialist Joan Higginbotham (left). Behind them are (left and right) Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick and Pilot William Oefelein; Mission Specialists Sunita Williams and Christer Fuglesang, who represents the European Space Agency; and Mission Specialist Robert Curbeam (right). 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. -- After arrival at the Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-116 Mission Specialist Nicholas Patrick 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 Sunita Williams, Joan Higginbotham, Christer Fuglesang and Robert Curbeam. Fuglesang, 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. -- The STS-116 crew pauses for the media at the Shuttle Landing Facility after their arrival. At the microphone is Mission Commander Mark Polansky. The crew members (from left) are Mission Specialists Sunita Williams, Joan Higginbotham and Nicholas Patrick, Polansky, Pilot William Oefelein, and Mission Specialists Robert Curbeam and Christer Fuglesang. The crew has returned to KSC for the terminal countdown demonstration test, which are prelaunch preparations that include a simulated launch countdown. 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, part of the terminal countdown demonstration test. 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. - 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. - Members of the STS-116 crew examine components of the mission payload at SPACEHAB in Cape Canaveral, Fla. Clockwise from lower left (in their blue uniforms) around the table are Mission Specialist Christer Fuglesang , Pilot William Oefelein, and Mission Specialists Joan Higginbotham, Nicholas Patrick and Sunita Williams. At far left is Robert Curbeam. The Swedish Fuglesang represents the European Space Agency. On the table is a stowage bag. Next to Patrick at right is astronaut Marsha Ivins, 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

Commercial Supersonic Transport, CST Project, X-59 Sonic Boom Test Model, in the 8x6-foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel, SWT

Rising air during a 2007 global dust storm on Mars lofted water vapor into the planet's middle atmosphere, researchers learned from data graphed here, derived from observations by the Mars Climate Sounder instrument on NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. The two vertical black lines in the right half of the graph (at about 260 and 310 on the horizontal scale) mark the beginning and end of the most recent global dust storm on Mars, which burst from regional scale to globe-encircling scale in July 2007. The presence of more colored dots, particularly green ones, in the upper portion of the graph between those lines, compared to the upper portion of the graph outside those lines, documents the uplift of water vapor in connection with the global dust storm. The vertical scale is altitude, labeled at left in kilometers above the surface of Mars (50 kilometers is about 30 miles; 80 kilometers is about 50 miles). The color bar below the graph gives the key to how much water vapor each dot represents, in parts per million, by volume, in Mars' atmosphere. Note that green to yellow represents about 100 times as much water as purple does. The horizontal axis of the graph is time, from January 2006 to February 2008. It is labeled with numbers representing the 360 degrees of Mars' orbit around the Sun, from zero to 360 degrees and then further on to include the first 30 degrees of the following Martian year. (The zero point is autumnal equinox -- end of summer -- in Mars' northern hemisphere.) This graph, based on Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter observations, was used in a January 2018 paper in Nature Astronomy by Nicholas Heavens of Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia, and co-authors. The paper presents Martian dust storms' uplifting effect on water vapor as a factor in seasonal patterns that other spacecraft have detected in the rate of hydrogen escaping from the top of Mars' atmosphere. https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA22080