KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Atlantis kicks up dust as it touches down at the Shuttle Landing Facility, completing the 4.5-million-mile journey to the International Space Station. Main gear touchdown occurred at 11:43:40 a.m. EDT; nose gear touchdown at 11:43:48 a.m.; and wheel stop at 11:44:35 a.m. Mission elapsed time was 10:19:58:44. Mission STS-112 expanded the size of the Station with the addition of the S1 truss segment. The returning crew of Atlantis are Commander Jeffrey Ashby, Pilot Pamela Melroy, and Mission Specialists David Wolf, Piers Sellers, Sandra Magnus and Fyodor Yurchikhin. This landing is the 60th at KSC in the history of the Shuttle program.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-112 Commander Jeffrey Ashby is ready for his practice run driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Ashby and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency egress training and driving the M-113. Mission STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The STS-125 crew members listen to instructions for driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. From left are Mission Specialists Megan McArthur, Mike Massimino and Michael Good. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Commander Scott Altman is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Commander Scott Altman practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him are other crew members. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Pilot Gregory C. Johnson is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist Mike Massimino is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist Megan McArthur is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist John Grunsfeld is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist Andrew Feustel is ready to practice driving the M=113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist Megan McArthur practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Other crew members are behind her. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The STS-125 crew members listen to instructions for driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. From left are Mission Specialists John Grunsfeld, Megan McArthur, Michael Good, Mike Massimino and Gregory C. Johnson. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - An STS-125 crew member affixes a mission patch to the inside of the M-113 armored personnel carrier the crew practiced driving.The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission each practiced driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist Michael Good is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist John Grunsfeld practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Other crew members are behind him. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist Michael Good practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Other crew members are behind him. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist Mike Massimino practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him are other crew members. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Pilot Gregory C. Johnson practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him are other crew members. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean takes his turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean takes his turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Passengers on the carrier are Mission Specialists Daniel Burbank and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Pilot Christopher Ferguson and Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader. MacLean represents the Canadian Space Agency. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind her is pilot Christopher Ferguson. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Steven MacLean is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. MacLean represents the Canadian Space Agency. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Mission Specialist Joseph Tanner is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him is seen Mission Specialist Steven MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett is ready to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Behind him are seen Mission Specialists Daniel Burbank and Steven MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, STS-117 Mission Specialist Steven Swanson is helmeted and ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, STS-117 Mission Specialist James Reilly is helmeted and ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, STS-117 Mission Specialist Danny Olivas is helmeted and ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, STS-117 Mission Specialist Patrick Forrester (right) waits his turn to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as fellow crew members look on. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, STS-117 Mission Specialist Patrick Forrester is helmeted and ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, STS-117 Pilot Lee Archambault is helmeted and ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, STS-117 Commander Rick Sturckow signals that he is ready to practice driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, members of the STS-117 crew are instructed in the operation of an M-113 armored personnel carrier by astronaut rescue team leader Capt. George Hoggard (left). The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, members of the STS-117 crew are instructed in the operation of an M-113 armored personnel carrier by the astronaut rescue team. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

STS-84 Mission Specialist C. Michael Foale rides in an M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. STS-84 aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis will be the sixth docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russian Space Station Mir. After docking, Foale will transfer to the space station and become a member of the Mir 23 crew, replacing U.S. astronaut Jerry M. Linenger, who will return to Earth aboard Atlantis. Foale will live and work on Mir until mid-September when his replacement is expected to arrive on the STS-86 mission. STS-84 is targeted for a May 15 liftoff

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 crew members pause during training for a photo. The crew has completed practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. From left are Mission Specialists John Grunsfeld (above), Mike Massimino, Andrew Feustel, Michael Good, Commander Scott Altman, Mission Specialist Megan McArthur and Pilot Gregory C. Johnson. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission each practiced driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - STS-125 Mission Specialist Megan McArthur successfully practiced driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Other crew members behind her are Mission Specialist John Grunsfeld, Mike Massimino, Michael Good, Gregory C. Johnson, Andrew Feustel and Commander Scott Altman. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - The STS-125 crew members listen to instructions for driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. From left are Commander Scott Altman, Pilot Gregory C. Johnson, Mission Specialists Andrew Feustel, Megan McArthur, Mike Massimino, Michael Good and John Grunsfeld. The crew members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-125 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of their training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. It provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization, emergency training and a simulated launch countdown. The STS-125 mission aboard space shuttle Atlantis to service NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope is targeted to launch Oct. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - STS-112 Mission Specialist David Wolf is ready for his practice run driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Wolf and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which also include a simulated launch countdown. Mission STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - STS-112 Pilot Pamela Melroy is ready for her practice run driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Melroy and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which also include a simulated launch countdown. Mission STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - STS-112 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus is ready for her practice run driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Magnus and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which also include a simulated launch countdown. Mission STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - STS-112 Mission Specialist Piers Sellers is ready for his practice run driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Sellers and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which also include a simulated launch countdown. Mission STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - STS-112 Commander Jeffrey Ashby drives the M-113 armored personnel carrier during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. At the far left is Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus. The TCDT also includes a simulated launch countdown. The mission aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Mission STS-117 Commander Rick Sturckow sits in the cockpit of Space Shuttle Atlantis at Launch Pad 39A to participate in a simulated launch countdown that is part of the prelaunch preparations known as terminal demonstration countdown test (TCDT). The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training and payload familiarization. The STS-117 mission is No. 21 to the International Space Station. Mission payloads aboard Atlantis include the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than March 15. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Mission STS-117 Pilot Lee Archambault sits in the cockpit of Space Shuttle Atlantis at Launch Pad 39A to participate in a simulated launch countdown that is part of the prelaunch preparations known as terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT). The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training and payload familiarization. The STS-117 mission is No. 21 to the International Space Station. Mission payloads aboard Atlantis include the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than March 15. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew members talk about their upcoming driving practice on the M-113 armored personnel carrier with Capt. George Hoggard (back to camera), who is astronaut rescue team leader. The astronauts seen, left to right, are Mission Specialists Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Dan Burbank, Steven MacLean and Joe Tanner, and Pilot Christopher Ferguson. Not visible is Commander Brent Jett. MacLean represents the Canadian Space Agency. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - After successfully completing their driving practice on the M-113 armored personnel carrier behind them, the STS-115 crew poses for a photo. From left are Pilot Christopher Ferguson, Mission Specialists Steven MacLean, Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Joseph Tanner and Daniel Burbank, and Commander Brent Jett. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Pilot Christopher Ferguson takes the wheel to practice driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Passengers on the carrier are (from left) Mission Specialists Daniel Burbank and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader, and Mission Specialist Steven MacLean. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Sitting inside the M-113 armored personnel carrier, the STS-115 crew members get instructions from Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader. The astronauts at left are Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Pilot Christopher Ferguson. At right are Commander Brent Jett and Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner and Daniel Burbank. Not seen is Mission Specialist Steven MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The STS-115 crew members are ready to climb into the M-113 armored personnel carrier with Capt. George Hoggard (back to camera), who is astronaut rescue team leader. The astronauts seen, left to right, are Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, Commander Brent Jett, Mission Specialists Dan Burbank, Steven MacLean and Joe Tanner, and Pilot Christopher Ferguson. MacLean represents the Canadian Space Agency.The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - With a video camera trained on him, STS-115 Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank takes his turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Also along for the ride are Mission Specialist Daniel Burbank, Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader, and Mission Specialist Steven MacLean, who represents the Canadian Space Agency. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - STS-115 Commander Brent Jett takes his turn at the wheel, driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Also on the ride are (left to right) Capt. George Hoggard, who is astronaut rescue team leader, and Mission Specialists Joseph Tanner, Steven MacLean and Daniel Burbank. The STS-115 crew are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities such as the M-113 training. They will also practice emergency egress from the launch pad and take part in a simulated launch countdown. Liftoff of mission STS-115 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled in a window beginning Aug. 27. Photo credit: NASA/Cory Huston

STS-84 crew members ride in and learn how to operate an M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. Seated inside the M-113, from left, are Mission Specialist Jean-Francois Clervoy, Pilot Eileen Marie Collins (waving) and Commander Charles J. Precourt, in front. George Hoggard, a training officer with KSC Fire Services, sits on top of the personnel carrier. STS-84 aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis will be the sixth docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russian Space Station Mir. After docking, STS-84 Mission Specialist C. Michael Foale will transfer to the space station and become a member of the Mir 23 crew, replacing U.S. astronaut Jerry M. Linenger, who will return to Earth aboard Atlantis. Foale will live and work on Mir until mid-September when his replacement is expected to arrive on the STS-86 mission. STS-84 is targeted for a May 15 liftoff

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - STS-112 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus takes her turn driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Space Shuttle Atlantis is in the background. Magnus and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which also include a simulated launch countdown. Mission STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Leland Melvin takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Hans Schlegel, of the European Space Agency, takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Commander Stephen Frick takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Rex Walheim, at right, practices driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as the instructor beside him monitors his performance. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - The STS-112 crew poses for a photo on the back of the M-113 armored personnel carrier they practiced driving as part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. From left are Mission Specialist David Wolf, Pilot Pamela Melroy, Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus, Commander Jeffrey Ashby, and Mission Specialists Piers Sellers and Fyodor Yurchikhin, who is with the Russian Space Agency. Mission STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission.

STS132-S-113 (26 May 2010) --- Space shuttle Atlantis' main gear touches down on Runway 33 at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Landing was at 8:48 a.m. (EDT) on May 26, 2010, completing the 12-day STS-132 mission to the International Space Station. Main gear touchdown was at 8:48:11 a.m., followed by nose gear touchdown at 8:48:21 a.m. and wheelstop at 8:49:18 a.m. Onboard are NASA astronauts Ken Ham, commander; Tony Antonelli, pilot; Garrett Reisman, Michael Good, Steve Bowen and Piers Sellers, all mission specialists. The six-member STS-132 crew carried the Russian-built Mini Research Module 1 (MRM1) to the orbital complex. STS-132 is the 34th shuttle mission to the station, the 132nd shuttle mission overall and the last planned flight for Atlantis.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. - STS-112 Mission Specialist Fyodor Yurchikhin, with the Russian Space Agency, Ashby is ready for his practice run driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. Yurchikhin and the rest of the crew are at KSC for Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which also include a simulated launch countdown. Mission STS-112 aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch no earlier than Oct. 2, between 2 and 6 p.m. EDT. STS-112 is the 15th assembly mission to the International Space Station. Atlantis will be carrying the S1 Integrated Truss Structure, the first starboard truss segment. The S1 will be attached to the central truss segment, S0, during the 11-day mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Mission STS-117 crew members receive emergency egress instruction at Launch Pad 39A during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. From the left in front are Pilot Lee Archambault, Mission Specialists Danny Olivas and Steven Swanson, Commander Rick Sturckow and Mission Specialist Patrick Forrester. Directly behind Olivas is Mission Specialist James Reilly. At right is a partial view of the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training, and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Mission STS-117 Mission Specialists James Reilly (left) and Danny Olivas sit in the mid-deck of Space Shuttle Atlantis at Launch Pad 39A to participate in a simulated launch countdown that is part of the prelaunch preparations known as terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT). The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training and payload familiarization. The STS-117 mission is No. 21 to the International Space Station. Mission payloads aboard Atlantis include the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than March 15. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Mission STS-117 Mission Specialist James Reilly egresses from Space Shuttle Atlantis at Launch Pad 39A after participating in a simulated launch countdown that is part of the prelaunch preparations known as terminal demonstration countdown test (TCDT). The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training and payload familiarization. The STS-117 mission is No. 21 to the International Space Station. Mission payloads aboard Atlantis include the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than March 15. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Mission STS-117 Mission Specialist Steven Swanson sits inside Space Shuttle Atlantis at Launch Pad 39A to participate in a simulated launch countdown that is part of the prelaunch preparations known as terminal demonstration countdown test (TCDT). The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training and payload familiarization. The STS-117 mission is No. 21 to the International Space Station. Mission payloads aboard Atlantis include the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than March 15. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Mission STS-117 Mission Specialist Patrick Forrester sits inside Space Shuttle Atlantis at Launch Pad 39A to participate in a simulated launch countdown that is part of the prelaunch preparations known as the terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT).The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training and payload familiarization. The STS-117 mission is No. 21 to the International Space Station. Mission payloads aboard Atlantis include the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than March 15. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts of the European Space Agency, in front, practices driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as the instructor, in the helmet beside him, monitors his performance. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. In back from left, former astronaut Jerry Ross, chief of the Vehicle Integration Test Office at NASA Johnson Space Center, and STS-122 Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Stanley Love (standing) and Hans Schlegel of the European Space Agency, are along for the ride. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

STS135-S-113 (8 July 2011) --- Space shuttle Atlantis and its four-member STS-135 crew head toward Earth orbit and rendezvous with the International Space Station. Liftoff was at 11:29 a.m. (EDT) on July 8, 2011 from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Onboard are NASA astronauts Chris Ferguson, commander; Doug Hurley, pilot; Sandy Magnus and Rex Walheim, both mission specialists. STS-135 will deliver the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module packed with supplies and spare parts for the space station. Atlantis also carries the Robotic Refueling Mission experiment that will investigate the potential for robotically refueling existing satellites in orbit. In addition, Atlantis will return with a failed ammonia pump module to help NASA better understand the failure mechanism and improve pump designs for future systems. STS-135 will be the 33rd flight of Atlantis, the 37th shuttle mission to the space station, and the 135th and final mission of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. Photo credit: NASA

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo as Mission Specialist Hans Schlegel, behind him on the left, prepares to ride along. Both Eyharts and Schlegel are with the European Space Agency, but Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Hans Schlegel, of the European Space Agency, in front, practices driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as the instructor, to his left, monitors his performance. STS-122 Mission Specialist Rex Walheim, at right, enjoys the ride in back. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-122 crew poses for a group portrait near Launch Pad 39B following a training session on the operation of the M-113 armored personnel carrier. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of an emergency on the pad before their launch. From left are Mission Specialists Rex Walheim and Stanley Love; Commander Steve Frick; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialists Leland Melvin, Leopold Eyharts and Hans Schlegel. Eyharts and Schlegel are with the European Space Agency. Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter, at right, seems to enjoy driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as the instructor behind him monitors his performance. European Space Agency astronaut Frank De Winne, at left, the backup for STS-122 Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts, is along for the ride. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Members of the STS-122 crew receive a briefing inside an M-113 armored personnel carrier near Launch Pad 39B. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of an emergency on the pad before their launch. Seated on the bench at left is European Space Agency astronaut Frank De Winne, the backup for STS-122 Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts. Seated on the bench at right, from back to front are Commander Steve Frick; Mission Specialists Rex Walheim, Hans Schlegel of the European Space Agency, and Leland Melvin; and Pilot Alan Poindexter. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Leland Melvin, at right, practices driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as the instructor beside him monitors his performance. STS-122 Pilot Alan Poindexter, at left, rides in back. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- European Space Agency astronaut Frank De Winne takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo. De Winne is the backup for STS-122 Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer for Expedition 16 following the STS-122 mission. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Commander Stephen Frick, at right, practices driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as an instructor, at left, monitors his performance. European Space Agency astronaut Frank De Winne, the backup for STS-122 Mission Specialist Leopold Eyharts, rides in back. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Waiting his turn at driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier is STS-110 Mission Specialist Rex Walheim. In the background, right, is Mission Specialist Ellen Ochoa. The driving is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day mission will feature Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Mission Specialist Steven Smith waits his turn at driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. TCDT includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown, and is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day mission will feature Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Mission STS-117 Commander Rick Sturckow speaks to the media during a question-and-answer session at Launch Pad 39A during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training, pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the International Space Station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Mission Specialist Ellen Ochoa waits her turn at driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. In the background, right, is Pilot Stephen Frick. TCDT includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day mission will feature Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Waiting his turn at driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier is STS-110 Mission Specialist Lee Morin. The driving is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day mission will feature Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- With STS-110 Mission Specialists Jerry Ross (far left) and Steven Smith (third from left) on board, Commander Michael Bloomfield scatters dust as he practices driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier. The driving is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, which include emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day mission will feature Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Pilot Stephen Frick waits inside the M-113 armored personnel carrier to begin training on driving the vehicle, which is part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. TCDT includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The TCDT is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day mission will feature Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Commander Michael Bloomfield is eager to take his turn turn at driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. To his left is Mission Specialist Steven Smith. TCDT includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown, and is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day mission will feature Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-110 Mission Specialist Jerry Ross waits his turn at driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier, part of Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities. In the background, right, is Mission Specialist Lee Morin. TCDT includes emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown, and is held at KSC prior to each Space Shuttle flight. Scheduled for launch April 4, the 11-day mission will feature Shuttle Atlantis docking with the International Space Station (ISS) and delivering the S0 truss, the centerpiece-segment of the primary truss structure that will eventually extend over 300 feet

STS-86 crew members get a ride in, and learn to operate, an M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of training exercises during the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT), a dress rehearsal for launch. George Hoggard, in back at left, a training officer with KSC Fire Services, provides this part of the training to Mission Specialists David A. Wolf, to the right of Hoggard; Jean-Loup J.M. Chretien of the French Space Agency; and Vladimir Georgievich Titov, in foreground, of the Russian Space Agency. STS-86 will be the seventh docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russian Space Station Mir. During the docking, Wolf will transfer to the orbiting Russian station and become a member of the Mir 24 crew, replacing U.S. astronaut C. Michael Foale, who has been on the Mir since the last docking mission, STS-84, in May. Launch of Mission STS-86 aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis is targeted for Sept. 25 from Launch Pad 39A

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 crew receive instruction on the use of an M-113 armored personnel carrier during emergency exit training. The M-113 is stationed at the base of the pad. In the blue flight suits, seated from left, are Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman, Commander Ken Ham, Pilot Tony Antonelli and Mission Specialist Piers Sellers. The crew is participating in training in preparation for their Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team the opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency procedures. On the STS-132 mission, the six-member crew will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier, or ICC, and the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Atlantis. The ICC is an unpressurized flat bed pallet and keel yoke assembly used to support the transfer of exterior cargo from the shuttle to the space station. The MRM-1, known as Rassvet, is the second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia and will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd shuttle mission overall. Atlantis is targeted to launch on May 14 at 2:19 p.m. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the members of space shuttle Atlantis' STS-132 crew receive instruction on the location and operation of an M-113 armored personnel carrier during emergency exit training. The M-113 is stationed at the base of the pad. In the blue flight suits, from left, are Mission Specialists Michael Good, Steve Bowen, Piers Sellers and Garrett Reisman. The crew is participating in training in preparation for their Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team the opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency procedures. On the STS-132 mission, the six-member crew will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier, or ICC, and the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Atlantis. The ICC is an unpressurized flat bed pallet and keel yoke assembly used to support the transfer of exterior cargo from the shuttle to the space station. The MRM-1, known as Rassvet, is the second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia and will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd shuttle mission overall. Atlantis is targeted to launch on May 14 at 2:19 p.m. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Rex Walheim takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo as Mission Specialist Stanley Love, behind him, takes a photo of his own. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Stanley Love, at right, practices driving an M-113 armored personnel carrier as the instructor behind him monitors his performance. Former astronaut Jerry Ross, chief of the Vehicle Integration Test Office at NASA Johnson Space Center, enjoys the ride in back. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The STS-122 crew poses for a group portrait near Launch Pad 39B during a training session on the operation of the M-113 armored personnel carrier. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of an emergency on the pad before their launch. From left are Mission Specialists Rex Walheim, Leopold Eyharts and Hans Schlegel of the European Space Agency, Stanley Love; Commander Steve Frick; Pilot Alan Poindexter; and Mission Specialist Leland Melvin. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At Launch Complex 39, astronaut rescue team leader Capt. George Hoggard, second from left, greets STS-117 Mission Specialist Steven Swanson as fellow crew members, from left, Mission Specialists James Reilly, Patrick Forrester and Danny Olivas look on. The astronauts on the STS-117 crew are participating in M-113 armored personnel carrier training during Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities, a dress rehearsal for their launch, targeted for March 15. The M-113 could be used to move the crew away from the launch pad quickly in the event of an emergency. The TCDT also includes pad emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. The mission payload aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis is the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, along with a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-122 Mission Specialist Stanley Love takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo as Mission Specialist Rex Walheim, behind him, prepares to ride along. The practice near Launch Pad 39B is part of training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The crew is participating in Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test activities, a standard part of launch preparations. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with equipment familiarization, emergency egress training and a simulated launch countdown. On mission STS-122, Atlantis will deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus module to the International Space Station. Columbus is a multifunctional, pressurized laboratory that will be permanently attached to U.S. Node 2, called Harmony, and will expand the research facilities aboard the station. Launch is targeted for Dec. 6. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

STS-84 crew members ride in and learn how to operate an M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test (TCDT) activities. In the front seat is Pilot Eileen Marie Collins. George Hoggard, a training officer with KSC Fire Services, sits beside her on top of the personnel carrier. Directly behind Hoggard, from left, are Commander Charles J. Precourt and Mission Specialist Elena V. Kondakova (sitting) of the Russian Space Agency. At the rear, from left, are Mission Specialist C. Michael Foale and Mission Specialist Jean-Francois Clervoy of the European Space Agency. STS-84 aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis will be the sixth docking of the Space Shuttle with the Russian Space Station Mir. After docking, Foale will transfer to the space station and become a member of the Mir 23 crew, replacing U.S. astronaut Jerry M. Linenger, who will return to Earth aboard Atlantis. Foale will live and work on Mir until mid-September when his replacement is expected to arrive on the STS-86 mission. STS-84 is targeted for a May 15 liftoff

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-132 Mission Specialist Piers Sellers takes time out from his M-113 armored personnel carrier training to pose for the camera. An M-113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed. The STS-132 crew is participating in their Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team the opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-132 mission, the six-member crew will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier, or ICC, and the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Atlantis. The ICC is an unpressurized flat bed pallet and keel yoke assembly used to support the transfer of exterior cargo from the shuttle to the space station. The MRM-1, known as Rassvet, is the second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia and will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd shuttle mission overall. Atlantis is targeted to launch on May 14 at 2:19 p.m. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, members of the STS-132 crew pose for a group portrait in front of an M-113 armored personnel carrier. From left are Mission Specialists Piers Sellers and Michael Good, Pilot Tony Antonelli, Mission Specialists Garrett Reisman and Steve Bowen, and Commander Ken Ham. An M-113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed. The STS-132 crew is participating in their Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team the opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-132 mission, the six-member crew will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier, or ICC, and the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Atlantis. The ICC is an unpressurized flat bed pallet and keel yoke assembly used to support the transfer of exterior cargo from the shuttle to the space station. The MRM-1, known as Rassvet, is the second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia and will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd shuttle mission overall. Atlantis is targeted to launch on May 14 at 2:19 p.m. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-132 Commander Ken Ham takes his instructor, Battalion Chief David Seymour, at left, for a ride in an M-113 armored personnel carrier during driving practice. Also along for the ride is Mission Specialist Michael Good. An M-113 is kept at the foot of the launch pad in case an emergency egress from the vicinity of the pad is needed. The STS-132 crew is participating in their Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT, a dress rehearsal for launch. TCDT provides each shuttle crew and launch team the opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-132 mission, the six-member crew will deliver an Integrated Cargo Carrier, or ICC, and the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1, or MRM-1, to the International Space Station aboard space shuttle Atlantis. The ICC is an unpressurized flat bed pallet and keel yoke assembly used to support the transfer of exterior cargo from the shuttle to the space station. The MRM-1, known as Rassvet, is the second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia and will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to 'dawn,' will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station. STS-132 is the 34th mission to the station and the 132nd shuttle mission overall. Atlantis is targeted to launch on May 14 at 2:19 p.m. For information on the STS-132 mission, visit http:__www.nasa.gov_mission_pages_shuttle_shuttlemissions_sts132_index.html. Photo credit: NASA_Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the 195-foot level of the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A, STS-117 Pilot Lee Archambault (front) and Commander Rick Sturckow sit in a slidewire basket, part of the emergency egress system. They and other crew members are practicing the emergency egress procedure to get off the pad, part of the prelaunch preparations known as terminal countdown demonstration test. The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training and payload familiarization. The STS-117 mission is No. 21 to the International Space Station. Mission payloads aboard Atlantis include the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than March 15. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the 195-foot level of the fixed service structure on Launch Pad 39A, STS-117 Mission Specialists Patrick Forrester (front) and Steven Swanson sit in a slidewire basket, part of the emergency egress system. They and other crew members are practicing the emergency egress procedure to get off the pad, part of the prelaunch preparations known as terminal countdown demonstration test (TCDT). The TCDT also includes M-113 armored personnel carrier training and payload familiarization. The STS-117 mission is No. 21 to the International Space Station. Mission payloads aboard Atlantis include the S3/S4 integrated truss structure, a third set of solar arrays and batteries. The crew of six astronauts will install the truss to continue assembly of the station. Launch is scheduled for no earlier than March 15. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett.