S82-31207 (1 May 1982) --- These two astronauts will man the space shuttle Columbia for NASA's fourth and final (STS-4) orbital flight test. Thomas K. (Ken) Mattingly II, right, is crew commander. Henry W. Hartsfield Jr., is pilot. Their flight is scheduled for launch in late June 1982, and is to last approximately one week, with launch to take place form KSC and landing to be on the dry lake beds of Edwards Air Force Base and Dryden Flight Research Facility (DFRC) in California. Photo credit: NASA

STS004-21-076 (27 June-4 July 1982) --- Astronaut Thomas K. Mattingly II, STS-4 commander, loses his cap amidst a maze of wiring, tape recorder and camera equipment onboard the Earth-orbiting space shuttle Columbia. He stands near the aft control panel on the flight deck of the reusable space vehicle. The 35mm frame was exposed by astronaut Henry W. Hartsfield Jr., STS-4 pilot. The pair spent seven days on NASA’s final orbital flight test in the Space Transportation System (STS) program. Photo credit: NASA

Crawler Transporter-2 (CT-2) is seen moving down the ramp at Launch Pad 39B after transporting NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard atop the mobile launcher to the pad, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is lowered through a work platform in High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

S82-32169 (26 May 1982) --- View of the space shuttle Columbia sitting on Launch Pad 39A at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), following rollout for STS-4, as preparations continue toward a late June launch. The fourth liftoff of the Columbia will mark the beginning of the final test flight in the Space Transportation System (STS) program. Astronauts Thomas K. Mattingly II and Henry W. Hartsfield will man the vehicle for a scheduled eight-day flight. Photo credit: NASA

Crawler Transporter-2 (CT-2) is seen as it rolls NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard atop the mobile launcher out to Launch Pad 39B, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I flight test is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Mission Specialist Ellen Ochoa has a final check of her launch and entry suit in preparation for launch April 4. This flight will be her fourth. The STS-110 payload includes the S0 Integrated Truss Structure (ITS), the Canadian Mobile Transporter, power distribution system modules, a heat pipe radiator for cooling, computers and a pair of rate gyroscopes. The 11-day mission is the 13th assembly flight to the ISS and includes four spacewalks to attach the S0 truss to the U.S. Lab Destiny

Technicians with NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems Program offload the agency’s Orion spacecraft from the KAMAG transporter to the servicing stand inside the Multi-Payload Processing Facility at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Sunday, May 4, 2025, to undergo fueling and processing operations for prelaunch operations. The Artemis II test flight is the first crewed flight under NASA’s Artemis campaign and is another step toward missions on the lunar surface and helping the agency prepare for future human missions to Mars.

Technicians with NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems Program offload the agency’s Orion spacecraft from the KAMAG transporter to the servicing stand inside the Multi-Payload Processing Facility at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Sunday, May 4, 2025, to undergo fueling and processing operations for prelaunch operations. The Artemis II test flight is the first crewed flight under NASA’s Artemis campaign and is another step toward missions on the lunar surface and helping the agency prepare for future human missions to Mars.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-111 Mission Specialist Philippe Perrin (CNES) smiles during suitup for the scheduled liftoff of Space Shuttle Endeavour at 7:44 p.m. EDT. This is Perrin's first Shuttle flight. STS-111 is the second Utilization Flight to the International Space Station, carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System (MBS), and a replacement wrist/roll joint for the Canadarm 2. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. In addition, Expedition 5 is traveling on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station to replace the current resident crew, Expedition 4, who will return to Earth with the STS-111 crew

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-111 Pilot Paul Lockhart waits for his helmet during suitup for the scheduled liftoff of Space Shuttle Endeavour at 7:44 p.m. EDT. This is Lockhart's first Shuttle flight. STS-111 is the second Utilization Flight to the International Space Station, carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System (MBS), and a replacement wrist/roll joint for the Canadarm 2. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. In addition, Expedition 5 is traveling on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station to replace the current resident crew, Expedition 4, who will return to Earth with the STS-111 crew

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-111 Commander Kenneth Cockrell suits up for the scheduled liftoff of Space Shuttle Endeavour at 7:44 p.m. EDT. This is Cockrell's fifth Shuttle flight. STS-111 is the second Utilization Flight to the International Space Station, carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System (MBS), and a replacement wrist/roll joint for the Canadarm 2. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. In addition, Expedition 5 is traveling on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station to replace the current resident crew, Expedition 4, who will return to Earth with the STS-111 crew

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Expedition 5 astronaut Peggy Whitson smiles as she dons her launch and entry suit for the scheduled liftoff of Space Shuttle Endeavour at 7:44 p.m. EDT. This is her first Shuttle flight. Expedition 5 is traveling on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station to replace the current resident crew, Expedition 4. STS-111 is the second Utilization Flight to the International Space Station, carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System (MBS), and a replacement wrist/roll joint for the Canadarm 2. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. Expedition 4 crew members will return to Earth with the STS-111 crew on Endeavour.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Expedition 5 cosmonaut Sergei Treschev (RSA) waves as he dons his launch and entry suit for the scheduled liftoff of Space Shuttle Endeavour at 7:44 p.m. EDT. This is Treschev's first Shuttle flight. Expedition 5 is traveling on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station to replace the current resident crew, Expedition 4. STS-111 is the second Utilization Flight to the International Space Station, carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System (MBS), and a replacement wrist/roll joint for the Canadarm 2. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. Expedition 4 crew members will return to Earth with the STS-111 crew on Endeavour.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's transfer aisle at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the Ares I-X forward assembly toward a stand in preparation for being moved into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The fifth segment simulator assembly for the Ares I-X is moved onto a stand in the Vehicle Assembly Building near High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lifts the fifth segment simulator assembly for the Ares I-X to move it into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane is attached to the fifth segment simulator assembly for the Ares I-X. The crane will lift and move the segment assembly into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's transfer aisle at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane lowers the Ares I-X forward assembly onto a stand in preparation for being moved into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's transfer aisle at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a crane is attached to the Ares I-X forward assembly. The assembly will be lifted from the trailer and placed on a stand in preparation for being moved into High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X forward assembly has joined other segments on the floor. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-111 Mission Specialist Franklin Chang-Diaz suits up for launch, scheduled at 7:44 p.m. EDT, May 30, 2002. This is his seventh Shuttle flight, only the second astronaut to achieve that number. STS-111 is the second Utilization Flight to the International Space Station, carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System (MBS), and a replacement wrist/roll joint for the Canadarm 2. Also onboard Space Shuttle Endeavour is the Expedition 5 crew who will replace Expedition 4 on board the Station. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. Expedition 4 crew members will return to Earth with the STS-111 crew on Endeavour

NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop a mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B as Crawler Transporter-2 (CT-2) begins to depart the pad, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, after being rolled out to the launch pad at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile launcher as Crawler Transporter-2 (CT-2) begins to climb the ramp at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile launcher as Crawler Transporter-2 (CT-2) climbs the ramp at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Crushed river rocks are seen on the crawlerway leading to Launch Pad 39B after Crawler Transporter-2 (CT-2) rolled NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard atop the mobile launcher out to the pad, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop a mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, as Crawler Transporter-2 departs the pad following rollout at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

Crushed river rocks are seen on the crawlerway leading to Launch Pad 39B after Crawler Transporter-2 (CT-2) rolled NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard atop the mobile launcher out to the pad, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile launcher as Crawler Transporter-2 (CT-2) begins to climb the ramp at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop the mobile launcher as Crawler Transporter-2 (CT-2) begins to climb the ramp at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard is seen atop a mobile launcher at Launch Pad 39B, Friday, Nov. 4, 2022, as Crawler Transporter-2 departs the pad following rollout at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I mission is the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Launch of the uncrewed flight test is targeted for Nov. 14 at 12:07 a.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Joel Kowsky)

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors are ready to be closed. The Shuttle payload includes the S0 Integrated Truss Structure (ITS), the Canadian Mobile Transporter, power distribution system modules, a heat pipe radiator for cooling, computers and a pair of rate gyroscopes. The mission is the 13th assembly flight to the ISS and includes four spacewalks to attach the S0 truss to the U.S. Lab Destiny. Launch is scheduled for April 4.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Pad 39B, Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors are ready to be closed. The Shuttle payload includes the S0 Integrated Truss Structure (ITS), the Canadian Mobile Transporter, power distribution system modules, a heat pipe radiator for cooling, computers and a pair of rate gyroscopes. The mission is the 13th assembly flight to the ISS and includes four spacewalks to attach the S0 truss to the U.S. Lab Destiny. Launch is scheduled for April 4.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-4 thunders away from Launch Pad 39A at 10:59:59 a.m. EDT, bound for a seven-day Earth orbital mission and the final developmental flight for the Space Transportation System. The fourth Space Shuttle mission is piloted by Commander Ken Mattingly and Pilot Henry Hartsfield Jr. Photo Credit: NASA

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A worker at Launch Pad 39B prepares for the closing of Space Shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors. The Shuttle payload includes the S0 Integrated Truss Structure (ITS), the Canadian Mobile Transporter, power distribution system modules, a heat pipe radiator for cooling, computers and a pair of rate gyroscopes. The mission is the 13th assembly flight to the ISS and includes four spacewalks to attach the S0 truss to the U.S. Lab Destiny. Launch is scheduled for April 4.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers keep close watch on the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, as it is lowered toward the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crane raises the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, to a vertical position. The LAS will then be ready for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers prepare the crane that will lift and rotate the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system (center) for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crane begins to raise the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, to a vertical position. The LAS will then be ready for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers keep close watch on the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, as it is lowered onto the crew module simulator for assembly. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, (left of center) is being moved to the crew module simulator (center) for assembly. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers place a crane and straps on the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system to lift and rotate it for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, workers keep close watch on the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, as it is lowered toward the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In In high bay 4 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the crane lifts the Ares I-X simulated launch abort system, or LAS, from its stand. The LAS will be rotated to vertical for assembly with the crew module simulator. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, which is part of the Constellation Program to return men to the moon and beyond. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in July 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the news media tour the spaceport's Vehicle Assembly Building. They were briefed on progress to upgrade and modify crawler-transporter CT 2 to support the Space Launch System. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry astronauts to destinations not yet explored by humans, including an asteroid and Mars. It will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities. The first unpiloted flight test of Orion is scheduled to launch Dec. 4, 2014 atop a United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavy rocket, and in 2018 on NASA’s Space Launch System rocket.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, overhead cranes lower the Mobile Base System onto the weight and center of gravity stand. Part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station, the MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 31, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers in the Space Station Processing Facility look over the Mobile Base System (MBS), part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to 'inchworm' from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 2, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers watch while overhead cranes move the Mobile Base System to the weight and center of gravity stand. Part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station, the MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 31, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility, the payload carrier with the Mobile Base System is lowered into the payload canister. On mission STS-111 to the International Space Station, the MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to 'inchworm' from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 30, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers in the Space Station Processing Facility check out components of over the Mobile Base System (MBS), part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 2, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, overhead cranes begin lifting the Mobile Base System before moving it to the weight and center of gravity stand. Part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station, the MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to 'inchworm' from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 31, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, workers keep watch while overhead cranes lift the Mobile Base System before moving it to the weight and center of gravity stand. Part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station, the MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 31, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers in the Space Station Processing Facility look over the Mobile Base System (MBS), part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 2, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, overhead cranes lower the Mobile Base System onto the weight and center of gravity stand. Part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station, the MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 31, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers in the Space Station Processing Facility check out components of over the Mobile Base System (MBS), part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 2, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Mobile Base System is prepared for lifting to move to the weight and center of gravity stand in the Space Station Processing Facility. Part of the payload on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station, the MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. STS-111 is the second utilization flight (UF-2) to the Space Station and will also carry the Expedition 5 crew to replace Expedition 4. Launch is scheduled for May 31, 2002

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technician Troy Merrick, with United Space Alliance, finishes installing a video camera on the side of the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7. The downward facing camera will provide live video during launch. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for no earlier than Aug. 30. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technician Troy Merrick, with United Space Alliance, finishes installing a video camera on the side of the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7. The downward facing camera will provide live video during launch. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for no earlier than Aug. 30. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technician Troy Merrick, with United Space Alliance, installs a video camera on the side of the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7. The downward facing camera will provide live video during launch. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for no earlier than Aug. 30. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technician Troy Merrick, with United Space Alliance, installs a video camera on the side of the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7. The downward facing camera will provide live video during launch. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for no earlier than Aug. 30. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technician Troy Merrick, with United Space Alliance, prepares a site on the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7 where a video camera will be installed. The downward facing camera will provide live video during launch. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for no earlier than Aug. 30. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - This closeup of Space Shuttle Endeavour shows the cockpit windows just above the name. Extending to the side is the environmental chamber known as the White Room, at the end of the orbiter access arm. STS-111 is the second Utilization Flight to the International Space Station, carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System (MBS), and a replacement wrist/roll joint for the Canadarm 2. Also onboard Space Shuttle Endeavour is the Expedition 5 crew who will replace Expedition 4 on board the Station. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. Expedition 4 crew members will return to Earth with the STS-111 crew on Endeavour. Launch is scheduled for 7:44 p.m. EDT, May 30, 2002

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly (center right) joins other segments located in High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X interstage 1 for the upper stage simulator is lowered onto the forward assembly. It will be mated with the frustum on top of the forward assembly. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Workers at Launch Pad 39A check the fittings on the payload bay of Endeavour before the bay doors close. The view is looking down into the payload bay. The Shuttle is poised for launch on mission STS-111, Utilization Flight 2, carrying supplies and equipment to the International Space Station. The payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System, which will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, and a replacement wrist/roll joint for Canadarm 2. Also part of the mission, Expedition 5 will travel to the Station as the replacement crew for Expedition 4, who will return to Earth aboard the orbiter. Launch is scheduled for May 30, 2002

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is being lifted toward a stand in the Vehicle Assembly Building's transfer aisle at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The assembly will later be lifted into the VAB's High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X interstage 1 for the upper stage simulator is lowered onto the forward assembly. It will be mated with the frustum on top of the forward assembly. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At Launch Pad 39A, Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo is ready for installation into Endeavour's payload bay for mission STS-111. The mission, known as Utilization Flight 2, is carrying supplies and equipment to the International Space Station. The payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System, which will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, and a replacement wrist/roll joint for Canadarm 2. Also part of the mission, Expedition 5 will travel to the Station as the replacement crew for Expedition 4, who will return to Earth aboard the orbiter. Launch is scheduled for May 30, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The remaining payload bay door begins to close. Visible is the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, last to be installed in Endeavour. The Shuttle is poised for launch on mission STS-111, Utilization Flight 2, carrying supplies and equipment to the International Space Station. The payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System, which will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, and a replacement wrist/roll joint for Canadarm 2. Also part of the mission, Expedition 5 will travel to the Station as the replacement crew for Expedition 4, who will return to Earth aboard the orbiter. Launch is scheduled for May 30, 2002.

NASA astronauts Douglas Hurley (left) and Robert Behnken (right) participate in a dress rehearsal for launch at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 23, 2020, ahead of NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 mission to the International Space Station. Demo-2 will serve as an end-to-end flight test of SpaceX’s crew transportation system, providing valuable data toward NASA certifying the system for regular, crewed missions to the orbiting laboratory under the agency’s Commercial Crew Program. Liftoff is targeted for 4:33 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, May 27.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is lowered onto a stand in the Vehicle Assembly Building's transfer aisle at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The assembly will later be lifted into the VAB's High Bay 4. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – A close-up of the video camera installed on the side of the Ares I-X segments 6 and 7, which are in the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The downward facing camera will provide live video during launch. Part of the Constellation Program, the Ares I-X is the test vehicle for the Ares I, which is the essential core of a space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system . The Ares I-X flight test is targeted for no earlier than Aug. 30. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

NASA astronauts Douglas Hurley (left) and Robert Behnken (right) participate in a dress rehearsal for launch at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 23, 2020, ahead of NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 mission to the International Space Station. Demo-2 will serve as an end-to-end flight test of SpaceX’s crew transportation system, providing valuable data toward NASA certifying the system for regular, crewed missions to the orbiting laboratory under the agency’s Commercial Crew Program. Liftoff is targeted for 4:33 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, May 27.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is lowered into High Bay 4 where other Ares I-X segments are located. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- With the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo installed in Endeavour, one of the payload bay doors (left) has been closed. The Shuttle is poised for launch on mission STS-111, Utilization Flight 2, carrying supplies and equipment to the International Space Station. The payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System, which will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, and a replacement wrist/roll joint for Canadarm 2. Also part of the mission, Expedition 5 will travel to the Station as the replacement crew for Expedition 4, who will return to Earth aboard the orbiter. Launch is scheduled for May 30, 2002

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is lifted from the transfer aisle. It will be moved into High Bay 4 with other Ares I-X segments. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With the SPACEHAB and Hitchhiker payloads already installed, Endeavour's payload bay is ready for installation of the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo for mission STS-111. The mission, known as Utilization Flight 2, is carrying supplies and equipment to the International Space Station. The payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System, which will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, and a replacement wrist/roll joint for Canadarm 2. Also part of the mission, Expedition 5 will travel to the Station as the replacement crew for Expedition 4, who will return to Earth aboard the orbiter. Launch is scheduled for May 30, 2002

NASA astronauts Douglas Hurley (left) and Robert Behnken (right) participate in a dress rehearsal for launch at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 23, 2020, ahead of NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 mission to the International Space Station. Demo-2 will serve as an end-to-end flight test of SpaceX’s crew transportation system, providing valuable data toward NASA certifying the system for regular, crewed missions to the orbiting laboratory under the agency’s Commercial Crew Program. Liftoff is targeted for 4:33 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, May 27.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo (bottom of photo) is being installed in Endeavour's payload bay for mission STS-111. The mission, known as Utilization Flight 2, is carrying supplies and equipment to the International Space Station. The payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System, which will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, and a replacement wrist_roll joint for Canadarm 2. Also part of the mission, Expedition 5 will travel to the Station as the replacement crew for Expedition 4, who will return to Earth aboard the orbiter. Launch is scheduled for May 30, 2002

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Ares I-X fifth segment simulator assembly is lowered into High Bay 4 where other Ares I-X segments are located. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. Ares I-X is targeted for launch in August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Launch and entry suits hang in readiness for the STS-111 crew. Launch is scheduled at 7:44 p.m. EDT, May 30, 2002. STS-111 is the second Utilization Flight to the International Space Station, carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System (MBS), and a replacement wrist/roll joint for the Canadarm 2. Also onboard Space Shuttle Endeavour is the Expedition 5 crew who will replace Expedition 4 on board the Station. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. The mechanical arm will then have the capability to "inchworm" from the U.S. Lab Destiny to the MSS and travel along the truss to work sites. Expedition 4 crew members will return to Earth with the STS-111 crew on Endeavour

SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, atop the company’s Falcon 9 rocket, stands poised at the pad at historic Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 21, 2020, ahead of NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 launch. The rocket and spacecraft will carry NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley to the International Space Station as part of the agency’s Commercial Crew Program, returning human spaceflight capability to the U.S. after nearly a decade. This will be SpaceX’s final flight test, paving the way for NASA to certify the crew transportation system for regular, crewed flights to the orbiting laboratory. Launch is slated for 4:33 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, May 27.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, with the Crew Dragon atop, stands poised for launch at historic Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 21, 2020, ahead of NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 mission. The rocket and spacecraft will carry NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley to the International Space Station as part of the agency’s Commercial Crew Program, returning human spaceflight capability to the U.S. after nearly a decade. This will be SpaceX’s final flight test, paving the way for NASA to certify the crew transportation system for regular, crewed flights to the orbiting laboratory. Launch is slated for 4:33 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, May 27.

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, with the Crew Dragon atop, stands poised for launch at historic Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 21, 2020, ahead of NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 mission. The rocket and spacecraft will carry NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley to the International Space Station as part of the agency’s Commercial Crew Program, returning human spaceflight capability to the U.S. after nearly a decade. This will be SpaceX’s final flight test, paving the way for NASA to certify the crew transportation system for regular, crewed flights to the orbiting laboratory. Launch is slated for 4:33 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, May 27.

SpaceX’s Crew Dragon spacecraft, atop the company’s Falcon 9 rocket, stands poised at the pad at historic Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on May 21, 2020, ahead of NASA’s SpaceX Demo-2 launch. The rocket and spacecraft will carry NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley to the International Space Station as part of the agency’s Commercial Crew Program, returning human spaceflight capability to the U.S. after nearly a decade. This will be SpaceX’s final flight test, paving the way for NASA to certify the crew transportation system for regular, crewed flights to the orbiting laboratory. Launch is slated for 4:33 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, May 27.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Mission Specialist Rex Walheim rests comfortably in his launch and entry suit during final suit check. This will be his first Shuttle flight. The STS-110 payload includes the S0 Integrated Truss Structure (ITS), the Canadian Mobile Transporter, power distribution system modules, a heat pipe radiator for cooling, computers and a pair of rate gyroscopes. The 11-day mission is the 13th assembly flight to the ISS and includes four spacewalks to attach the S0 truss to the U.S. Lab Destiny. Launch is scheduled for April 4

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- As he undergoes a final check on his launch and entry suit, STS-110 Mission Specialist Jerry Ross shows his delight in the upcoming launch. Ross will be making a record-breaking seventh Shuttle flight. The STS-110 payload includes the S0 Integrated Truss Structure (ITS), the Canadian Mobile Transporter, power distribution system modules, a heat pipe radiator for cooling, computers and a pair of rate gyroscopes. The 11-day mission is the 13th assembly flight to the ISS and includes four spacewalks to attach the S0 truss to the U.S. Lab Destiny. Launch is scheduled for April 4

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Mission Specialist Lee Morin undergoes final check of his launch and entry suit. Morin will be taking his first Shuttle flight. The STS-110 payload includes the S0 Integrated Truss Structure (ITS), the Canadian Mobile Transporter, power distribution system modules, a heat pipe radiator for cooling, computers and a pair of rate gyroscopes. The 11-day mission is the 13th assembly flight to the ISS and includes four spacewalks to attach the S0 truss to the U.S. Lab Destiny. Launch is scheduled for April 4

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Mission Specialist Steven Smith gives a thumbs up for launch as he has a final check of his launch and entry suit. This flight will be his fourth. The STS-110 payload includes the S0 Integrated Truss Structure (ITS), the Canadian Mobile Transporter, power distribution system modules, a heat pipe radiator for cooling, computers and a pair of rate gyroscopes. The 11-day mission is the 13th assembly flight to the ISS and includes four spacewalks to attach the S0 truss to the U.S. Lab Destiny. Launch is scheduled for April 4

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – As technicians monitor the progress of the transporter, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket with its Dragon spacecraft arrive at Space Launch Complex-40 on Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida. Liftoff with the SpaceX Falcon 9 is set for 4:55 a.m. EDT on May 19. The launch will be the company's second demonstration test flight for NASA's Commercial Orbital Transportation Services Program, or COTS. During the flight, the capsule will conduct a series of check-out procedures to test and prove its systems, including rendezvous and berthing with the International Space Station. If the capsule performs as planned, the cargo and experiments it is carrying will be transferred to the station. The cargo includes food, water and provisions for the station’s Expedition crews, such as clothing, batteries and computer equipment. Under COTS, NASA has partnered with two aerospace companies to deliver cargo to the station. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/spacex Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Ares I-X segments and stacks are filling the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. At left in the background is the crew module-launch abort system, or CM-LAS, and simulator service module-service adapter stack. At left in front is the "birdcage," the special crane that will lift the stack. Not seen is the forward assembly that has joined the other segments. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Ares I-X segments and stacks are filling the floor of the Vehicle Assembly Building's High Bay 4 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. At left in the background is the crew module-launch abort system, or CM-LAS, and simulator service module-service adapter stack. Not seen is the forward assembly that has joined the other segments. Ares I-X is the flight test vehicle for the Ares I, a component of the Constellation Program. Ares I is the essential core of a safe, reliable, cost-effective space transportation system that eventually will carry crewed missions back to the moon, on to Mars and out into the solar system. The launch of the Ares I-X flight test is targeted for August 2009. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility-3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the orbiter boom sensor system, or OBSS, removed from space shuttle Discovery's payload bay, is secured on a transporter. The 50-foot-long OBSS attaches to the end of the shuttle’s robotic arm and supports the cameras and laser systems used to inspect the shuttle’s thermal protection system while in space. The OBSS' inspection boom assembly, or IBA, is removed from the arm every other processing flow for a detailed inspection. After five consecutive flights, all IBA internal components are submitted to a thorough electrical checkout in Kennedy's Remote Manipulator System Lab. Discovery next will deliver the first Permanent Multi-purpose Module, or PMM; the Express Logistics Carrier 4; and critical spare parts to the International Space Station on the STS-133 mission. Launch is targeted for Sept. 16. Photo credit: NASA_Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility-3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the orbiter boom sensor system, or OBSS, removed from space shuttle Discovery's payload bay, is positioned over a transporter. The 50-foot-long OBSS attaches to the end of the shuttle’s robotic arm and supports the cameras and laser systems used to inspect the shuttle’s thermal protection system while in space. The OBSS' inspection boom assembly, or IBA, is removed from the arm every other processing flow for a detailed inspection. After five consecutive flights, all IBA internal components are submitted to a thorough electrical checkout in Kennedy's Remote Manipulator System Lab. Discovery next will deliver the first Permanent Multi-purpose Module, or PMM; the Express Logistics Carrier 4; and critical spare parts to the International Space Station on the STS-133 mission. Launch is targeted for Sept. 16. Photo credit: NASA_Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In Orbiter Processing Facility-3 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the orbiter boom sensor system, or OBSS, removed from space shuttle Discovery's payload bay, is lowered onto a transporter. The 50-foot-long OBSS attaches to the end of the shuttle’s robotic arm and supports the cameras and laser systems used to inspect the shuttle’s thermal protection system while in space. The OBSS' inspection boom assembly, or IBA, is removed from the arm every other processing flow for a detailed inspection. After five consecutive flights, all IBA internal components are submitted to a thorough electrical checkout in Kennedy's Remote Manipulator System Lab. Discovery next will deliver the first Permanent Multi-purpose Module, or PMM; the Express Logistics Carrier 4; and critical spare parts to the International Space Station on the STS-133 mission. Launch is targeted for Sept. 16. Photo credit: NASA_Jack Pfaller

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a full-size mockup of the Orion spacecraft sits on a transporter. Crane operators and technicians are preparing to lift the mockup and transfer it into High Bay 4 in order to keep processing procedures and skills current for the Ground Systems Development and Operations Program. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry crews to space beyond low Earth orbit. It will provide emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during the space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities. Orion’s first unpiloted test flight is scheduled to launch in 2014 atop a Delta IV rocket. A second uncrewed flight test is scheduled for 2017 on NASA’s Space Launch System rocket. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/orion. Photo credit: NASA/Dan Casper

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The thermal vacuum fixture is transferred to a transporter in front of the Payload Hazardous Servicing Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The fixture will be used to hold the carrier and flight support system for the STS-125 Hubble Space Telescope Servicing Mission 4. Space shuttle Atlantis is targeted to launch on the STS-125 mission Oct. 8. The mission crew will perform history-making, on-orbit “surgery” on two important science instruments aboard the telescope. After capturing the telescope, two teams of spacewalking astronauts will perform the repairs during five planned spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Expedition 5 Commander Valeri Korzun (RSA), left, talks with astronaut Tracy Caldwell during suitup for the scheduled liftoff of Space Shuttle Endeavour at 7:44 p.m. EDT. This is Korzun's 2nd Shuttle flight. STS-111 is the second Utilization Flight to the International Space Station, carrying the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo, the Mobile Base System (MBS), and a replacement wrist/roll joint for the Canadarm 2. The MBS will be installed on the Mobile Transporter to complete the Canadian Mobile Servicing System, or MSS. In addition, Expedition 5 is traveling on mission STS-111 to the International Space Station to replace the current resident crew, Expedition 4, who will return to Earth with the STS-111 crew

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Endeavour is silhouetted against the morning sun as it arrives on Launch Pad 39A to begin processing operations for launch on mission STS-111. The slow journey along the crawlerway took 6.5 hours at a speed of 0.9 mph. The Shuttle sits atop its Mobile Launcher Platform, which travels on the crawler-transporter. At left is the open Rotating Service Structure and the Fixed Service Structure behind it, with its 80-foot lightning mast on top. Mission STS-111 is designated UF-2, the 14th assembly flight to the International Space Station. Endeavour's payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo and Mobile Base System. The mission also will swap resident crews on the Station, carrying the Expedition 5 crew and returning to Earth Expedition 4. Liftoff of Endeavour is scheduled between 4 and 8 p.m. May 30, 2002

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Space Shuttle Endeavour arrives at Launch Pad 39A shortly after 9 a.m. to begin processing operations for launch on mission STS-111. The slow journey along the crawlerway took 6.5 hours at a speed of 0.9 mph. The Shuttle sits atop its Mobile Launcher Platform, which travels on the crawler-transporter. At left is the open Rotating Service Structure and the Fixed Service Structure behind it, with its 80-foot lightning mast on top. Mission STS-111 is designated UF-2, the 14th assembly flight to the International Space Station. Endeavour's payload includes the Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo and Mobile Base System. The mission also will swap resident crews on the Station, carrying the Expedition 5 crew and returning to Earth Expedition 4. Liftoff of Endeavour is scheduled between 4 and 8 p.m. May 30, 2002