NASA's John C. Stennis Space Center Deputy Director Gene Goldman (center) welcomed members of the STS-124 Discovery space shuttle crew during their July 23 visit to the center. Crew members who visited Stennis were (l to r) Pilot Ken Ham, Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg, Kelly, and Mission Specialists Ron Garan and Mike Fossum.

S124-E-007905 (9 June 2008) --- The STS-124 and Expedition 17 crewmembers pose for a group portrait following a joint news conference from the newly installed Kibo Japanese Pressurized Module of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station. From the left (front row) are NASA astronauts Karen Nyberg, Garrett Reisman, both STS-124 mission specialists; Mark Kelly, STS-124 commander; Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonaut Sergei Volkov, Expedition 17 commander; and NASA astronaut Mike Fossum, STS-124 mission specialist. From the left (back row) are NASA astronaut Ron Garan, STS-124 mission specialist; Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, Expedition 17 flight engineer; NASA astronauts Ken Ham, STS-124 pilot; Greg Chamitoff, Expedition 17 flight engineer; and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, STS-124 mission specialist. Reisman, who joined the station's crew in March, is being replaced by Chamitoff, who arrived at the station with the STS-124 crew.

STS124-S-006 (31 May 2008) --- After suiting up, the STS-124 crewmembers pause alongside the Astrovan to wave farewell to onlookers before heading for launch pad 39A for the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on the STS-124 mission. From the right are astronauts Mark Kelly, commander; Ken Ham, pilot; Karen Nyberg, Ron Garan, Mike Fossum, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and Greg Chamitoff, all mission specialists. The STS-124 mission is the 26th in the assembly of the International Space Station. It is the second of three flights launching components to complete JAXA's Kibo laboratory. During the mission, the shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system. Chamitoff will join Expedition 17 in progress to serve as a flight engineer aboard the station.

STS124-S-005 (31 May 2008) --- After suiting up, the STS-124 crewmembers exit the Operations and Checkout Building to board the Astrovan, which will take them to launch pad 39A for the launch of Space Shuttle Discovery on the STS-124 mission. On the right (front to back) are astronauts Mark Kelly, commander; Karen Nyberg and Mike Fossum, both mission specialists. On the left (front to back) are astronauts Ken Ham, pilot; Ron Garan, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and Greg Chamitoff, all mission specialists. The STS-124 mission is the 26th in the assembly of the International Space Station. It is the second of three flights launching components to complete JAXA's Kibo laboratory. During the mission, the shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system. Chamitoff will join Expedition 17 in progress to serve as a flight engineer aboard the station.

S124-E-007004 (6 June 2008) --- The STS-124 and Expedition 17 crewmembers pose for a group portrait in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station. From the left (front row) are NASA astronaut Karen Nyberg, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronauts Ron Garan, Mike Fossum, all STS-124 mission specialists; and Ken Ham, STS-124 pilot. From the left (back row) are Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko, NASA astronaut Greg Chamitoff, both Expedition 17 flight engineers; astronaut Garrett Reisman, STS-124 mission specialist; Mark Kelly, STS-124 commander; and Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonaut Sergei Volkov, Expedition 17 commander. Reisman, who joined the station's crew in March, is being replaced by Chamitoff, who arrived at the station with the STS-124 crew.

S124-E-007928 (9 June 2008) --- STS-124 crewmembers and NASA astronaut Greg Chamitoff (center front row), Expedition 17 flight engineer, pose for a portrait following a joint news conference with the Expedition 17 crewmembers from the Kibo Japanese Pressurized Module of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station. Also pictured on the front row are NASA astronauts Karen Nyberg, mission specialist, and Mark Kelly, commander. From the left (back row) are NASA astronaut Ken Ham, pilot; Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronauts Ron Garan and Mike Fossum, all mission specialists. Reisman (not pictured), who joined the station's crew in March, is being replaced by Chamitoff, who arrived at the station with the STS-124 crew.

S124-E-007930 (9 June 2008) --- STS-124 crewmembers pose for a portrait following a joint news conference with the Expedition 17 crewmembers from the Kibo Japanese Pressurized Module of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station. From the left (front row) are NASA astronauts Karen Nyberg, Garrett Reisman, both mission specialists; and Mark Kelly, commander. From the left (back row) are NASA astronaut Ken Ham, pilot; Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronauts Ron Garan and Mike Fossum, all mission specialists. Reisman, who joined the station's crew in March, is being replaced by Chamitoff (not pictured), who arrived at the station with the STS-124 crew.

S124-E-007922 (9 June 2008) --- STS-124 crewmembers pose for a portrait following a joint news conference with the Expedition 17 crewmembers from the Kibo Japanese Pressurized Module of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station. From the left (front row) are NASA astronauts Karen Nyberg, Garrett Reisman, both mission specialists; Mark Kelly, commander; Greg Chamitoff, Expedition 17 flight engineer; and Ken Ham, pilot. From the left (back row) are Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronauts Ron Garan and Mike Fossum, all mission specialists. Reisman, who joined the station's crew in March, is being replaced by Chamitoff, who arrived at the station with the STS-124 crew.

JSC2008-E-047113 (15 June 2008) --- NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) director Michael L. Coats (far left) addresses a large crowd of well-wishers at the STS-124 crew return ceremony on June 15, 2008 at Ellington Field near JSC. From the second left are NASA astronauts Mark Kelly, commander; Ken Ham, pilot; Karen Nyberg, Ron Garan, Mike Fossum, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and NASA astronaut Garrett Reisman, all mission specialists.

JSC2008-E-047111 (15 June 2008) --- The STS-124 crewmembers were welcomed home to Houston June 15, 2008, following the landing of Space Shuttle Discovery in Florida on June 14. NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) director Michael L. Coats (far left) introduced the crew to a large crowd on hand at Ellington Field near JSC. From the second left are NASA astronauts Mark Kelly, commander; Ken Ham, pilot; Karen Nyberg, Ron Garan, Mike Fossum, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and NASA astronaut Garrett Reisman, all mission specialists.

JSC2008-E-047157 (15 June 2008) --- NASA's Johnson Space Center (JSC) director Michael L. Coats (far left) addresses a large crowd of well-wishers at the STS-124 crew return ceremony on June 15, 2008 at Ellington Field near JSC. From the second left are NASA astronauts Mark Kelly, commander; Ken Ham, pilot; Karen Nyberg, Ron Garan, Mike Fossum, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and NASA astronaut Garrett Reisman, all mission specialists.

S124-E-007005 (6 June 2008) --- Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonauts Sergei Volkov (right) and Oleg Kononenko (left), Expedition 17 commander and flight engineer, respectively; along with NASA astronauts Greg Chamitoff (second left), flight engineer, and Garrett Reisman, STS-124 mission specialist, pose for a photo in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station. Reisman, who joined the station's crew in March, is being replaced by Chamitoff, who arrived at the station with the STS-124 crew.

Vice President Richard B. Cheney, center, poses with astronauts from the STS-124 mission at the Vice President's residence Wednesday July 16, 2008, in Washington. Crew members from left are: NASA Astronaut Garrett Reisman, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, Mission Specialist Mike Fossum, Mission Specialist Ron Garan, Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg, Pilot Ken Ham and Commander Mark Kelly. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

S124-E-006920 (6 June 2008) --- Astronauts Ken Ham (foreground), STS-124 pilot; Mark Kelly, commander; Mike Fossum (partially obscured, left) and Ron Garan (partially obscured, right), both mission specialists, work in the newly installed Kibo Japanese Pressurized Module while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station.

S124-E-006923 (6 June 2008) --- Astronauts Ron Garan (foreground), Mike Fossum (left background), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide (top background), all STS-124 mission specialists; astronaut Mark Kelly (bottom background) and Ken Ham, commander and pilot, respectively, work in the newly installed Kibo Japanese Pressurized Module while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station.

S124-E-007955 (9 June 2008) --- NASA astronauts Garrett Reisman, STS-124 mission specialist, and Greg Chamitoff, Expedition 17 flight engineer, pose for a portrait following a joint news conference with the STS-124 crewmembers from the Kibo Japanese Pressurized Module of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station. Reisman, who joined the station's crew in March, is being replaced by Chamitoff, who arrived at the station with the STS-124 crew.

S124-E-007941 (9 June 2008) --- STS-124 crewmembers pose for a portrait following a joint news conference with the Expedition 17 crewmembers from the Kibo Japanese Pressurized Module of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station. Pictured (clockwise) from the bottom are NASA astronauts Karen Nyberg, mission specialists; Ken Ham, pilot; Mark Kelly, commander; Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronauts Ron Garan and Mike Fossum, all mission specialists.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After greeting the media on their arrival on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the crew members of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission wave and head for the van that will take them to crew quarters in the Operations and Checkout Building. They will be preparing for launch scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --- STS124-S-002 --- These seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-124 crew portrait. From the left are astronauts Gregory E. Chamitoff, Michael E. Fossum, both STS-124 mission specialists; Kenneth T. Ham, pilot; Mark E. Kelly, commander; Karen L. Nyberg, Ronald J. Garan and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Akihiko Hoshide, all mission specialists. Chamitoff is scheduled to join Expedition 17 as flight engineer after launching to the International Space Station on mission STS-124. The crewmembers are attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits.

STS124-S-002 (25 Sept. 2007) --- These seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-124 crew portrait. From the left are astronauts Gregory E. Chamitoff, Michael E. Fossum, both STS-124 mission specialists; Kenneth T. Ham, pilot; Mark E. Kelly, commander; Karen L. Nyberg, Ronald J. Garan and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Akihiko Hoshide, all mission specialists. Chamitoff is scheduled to join Expedition 17 as flight engineer after launching to the International Space Station on mission STS-124. The crewmembers are attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Two of the crewmembers for the STS-124 mission, Mission Specialists Ron Garan and Karen Nyberg, depart NASA's Kennedy Space Center in a T-38 training jet after a successful launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. The crew is expected to return in late May for the May 31 launch of space shuttle Discovery. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After their arrival on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the crew members of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission gather to talk to the media. Seen here is Commander Mark Kelly. Hoshide represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

S124-E-006667 (6 June 2008) --- Eight of ten astronauts and cosmonauts currently sharing work on the International Space Station share a mealtime in the Zvezda service module. Holding beverage or food packets and partially out of frame on each side of the scene are astronauts Garrett Reisman (left edge) and Ken Ham (right edge), mission specialist and pilot, respectively, for the STS-124 mission. Others, from the left are cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko, Expedition 17 flight engineer; Sergei Volkov, Expedition 17 commander; along with astronauts Ron Garan, STS-124 mission specialist; Mike Fossum, mission specialist; Mark Kelly, commander; Karen Nyberg, mission specialist; and Ken Ham, pilot. Not pictured are astronauts Greg Chamitoff, the new Expedition 17 flight engineer, and Akihiko Hoshide, mission specialist representing JAXA.

S124-E-007537 (8 June 2008) --- A "fish-eye" lens on a digital still camera was used to record this image of the STS-124 and Expedition 17 crewmembers as they share a meal on the middeck of the Space Shuttle Discovery while docked with the International Space Station. Pictured clockwise (from the left) are NASA astronauts Mike Fossum (partially out of frame), Ron Garan, both STS-124 mission specialists; Mark Kelly, STS-124 commander; Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonaut Sergei Volkov, Expedition 17 commander; NASA astronauts Ken Ham (top), STS-124 pilot; Garrett Reisman, STS-124 mission specialist; Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko and NASA astronaut Greg Chamitoff (partially obscured), both Expedition 17 flight engineers.

S124-E-006671 (6 June 2008) --- Nine of ten astronauts and cosmonauts currently sharing work on the International Space Station squeeze into an informal group portrait during mealtime on the Zvezda service module. Astronaut Mike Fossum, STS-124 mission specialist, is in center foreground. Pictured clockwise from his position are astronauts Mark Kelly, shuttle commander; Akihiko Hoshide, mission specialist; Karen Nyberg, mission specialist; Ken Ham, pilot; and Greg Chamitoff, Expedition 17 flight engineer; along with cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko, station flight engineer; and Sergei Volkov, station commander; and astronaut Garrett Reisman, STS-124 mission specialist. Not pictured is astronaut Ron Garan, STS-124 mission specialist.

S124-E-007545 (8 June 2008) --- A "fish-eye" lens on a digital still camera was used to record this image of the STS-124 and Expedition 17 crewmembers as they share a meal on the middeck of the Space Shuttle Discovery while docked with the International Space Station. Pictured counter-clockwise (from the left bottom) are NASA astronauts Mark Kelly, STS-124 commander; Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonaut Sergei Volkov, Expedition 17 commander; NASA astronaut Garrett Reisman, STS-124 mission specialist; Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko; NASA astronauts Greg Chamitoff, both Expedition 17 flight engineers; NASA astronaut Mike Fossum, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, NASA astronaut Karen Nyberg, all STS-124 mission specialists; and NASA astronaut Ken Ham, STS-124 pilot.

S124-E-007357 (8 June 2008) --- A crescent moon is featured in this image photographed by a STS-124 crewmember while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the International Space Station.

S124-E-005438 (1 June 2008) --- The STS-124 crewmembers take a moment for a photo on the aft flight deck of Space Shuttle Discovery during flight day two activities. Pictured from the left (foreground) are astronauts Ken Ham, pilot; Karen Nyberg, Mike Fossum, both mission specialists; and Mark Kelly, commander. Pictured in the background are astronauts Greg Chamitoff (left) and Ron Garan, both mission specialists. Not pictured is Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Akihiko Hoshide, mission specialist.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Following the successful landing of space shuttle Discovery at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to end the 14-day, STS-124 mission, the crew sits for a press conference. Pilot Ken Ham shares his memory of space. The STS-124 mission delivered the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system to the International Space Station. The landing was on time at 11:15 a.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Following the successful landing of space shuttle Discovery at NASA's Kennedy Space Center to end the 14-day, STS-124 mission, the crew sits for a press conference. Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg describes her favorite moment in space. The STS-124 mission delivered the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system to the International Space Station. The landing was on time at 11:15 a.m. EDT. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a crane lifts space shuttle Discovery into the upper levels. Discovery will be lowered into high bay 3 and mated to the external tank and solid rocket boosters waiting there in preparation for launch on the upcoming STS-124 mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, the STS-124 crew will transport the Japanese Experiment Module - Pressurized Module and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System to the space station. Launch of Discovery is targeted for May 31 Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 3 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, space shuttle Discovery continues to be lowered onto the mobile launcher platform in front of the solid rocket boosters and external tank. The stacking is in preparation for the launch on the upcoming STS-124 mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, the STS-124 crew will transport the Japanese Experiment Module - Pressurized Module and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System to the space station. Launch of Discovery is targeted for May 31 Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 3 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, space shuttle Discovery continues to be lowered onto the mobile launcher platform in front of the solid rocket boosters and external tank. The stacking is in preparation for the launch on the upcoming STS-124 mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, the STS-124 crew will transport the Japanese Experiment Module - Pressurized Module and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System to the space station. Launch of Discovery is targeted for May 31 Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 3 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, space shuttle Discovery comes to rest on the mobile launcher platform in front of the solid rocket boosters and external tank. The stacking is in preparation for the launch on the upcoming STS-124 mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, the STS-124 crew will transport the Japanese Experiment Module - Pressurized Module and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System to the space station. Launch of Discovery is targeted for May 31 Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, an overhead crane lowers the Kibo Japanese Experiment Module - Pressurized Module into the payload canister. The canister will deliver the module, part of the payload for space shuttle Discovery’s STS-124 mission, to Launch Pad 39A. On the mission, the STS-124 crew will transport the Kibo module as well as the Japanese Remote Manipulator System to the International Space Station to complete the Kibo laboratory. The launch of Discovery is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a crane lifts space shuttle Discovery into the upper levels. Discovery will be lowered into high bay 3 and mated to the external tank and solid rocket boosters waiting there in preparation for launch on the upcoming STS-124 mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, the STS-124 crew will transport the Japanese Experiment Module - Pressurized Module and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System to the space station. Launch of Discovery is targeted for May 31 Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

S124-E-009832 (10 June 2008) --- Astronauts Ken Ham (bottom), STS-124 pilot; Ron Garan (left) and Mike Fossum, both mission specialists, pose for a photo after adding the STS-124 patch to the growing collection of insignias representing crews who have performed spacewalks from the Quest Airlock of the International Space Station.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In high bay 3 of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, space shuttle Discovery continues to be lowered onto the mobile launcher platform in front of the solid rocket boosters and external tank. The stacking is in preparation for the launch on the upcoming STS-124 mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, the STS-124 crew will transport the Japanese Experiment Module - Pressurized Module and the Japanese Remote Manipulator System to the space station. Launch of Discovery is targeted for May 31 Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After landing with the STS-124 mission crew, astronaut Garrett Reisman talks to NASA Associate Administrator for Space Operations Bill Gerstenmaier and NASA Associate Administrator Chris Scolese. Reisman spent 95 days on the International Space Station as part of the Expedition 17 crew. The STS-124 mission ended with space shuttle Discovery's landing on Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, ending a 14-day mission to the International Space Station. Discovery's main landing gear touched down at 11:15:19 a.m. EDT on Runway 15. The nose landing gear touched down at 11:15:30 a.m. and wheel stop was at 11:16:19 a.m. The mission completed 5.7 million miles. The STS-124 mission delivered the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

STS-124 crew members, from left, pilot Kenneth T. Ham, mission specialist Karen L. Nyberg, mission specialist, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Akihiko Hoshide, Commander Mark E. Kelly, mission specialist Michael E. Fossum and mission specialist Ronald J. Garan talk about their STS-124 mission shortly after landing the space shuttle Discovery at 11:15 a.m. on June 14, 2008 at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. During the 14-day mission the crew of STS-124 installed the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's large Kibo laboratory and its remote manipulator system leaving a larger space station and one with increased science capabilities. Discovery also brought home NASA astronaut Garrett Reisman after his 3 month mission onboard the International Space Station. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After landing with the STS-124 mission crew, astronaut Garrett Reisman joins in the traditional walk-around under the shuttle after landing. Reisman spent 95 days on the International Space Station as part of the Expedition 17 crew. The STS-124 mission ended with space shuttle Discovery's landing on Runway 15 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, ending a 14-day mission to the International Space Station. Discovery's main landing gear touched down at 11:15:19 a.m. EDT on Runway 15. The nose landing gear touched down at 11:15:30 a.m. and wheel stop was at 11:16:19 a.m. The mission completed 5.7 million miles. The STS-124 mission delivered the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system to the space station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 crew members climb into the slidewire baskets on the 195-foot level of the fixed service structure. The baskets are used for emergency egress, part of the launch dress rehearsal known as the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including a simulated launch countdown, equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Members of the space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 crew inspect cables on Launch Pad 39A. From left are Mission Specialists Mike Fossum and Akihiko Hoshide, who represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The crew is getting ready for launch at 5:02 p.m. on May 31. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The STS-124 crew departs NASA's Kennedy Space Center after a successful launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. Seated in the T-38 training jet, Mission Specialist Mike Fossum is ready to put on his helmet for the flight back to Houston. The crew is expected to return in late May for the May 31 launch of space shuttle Discovery. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg is ready to begin driving practice in the M113 armored personnel carrier, part of emergency training. Behind her is Pilot Ken Ham. She and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew for the STS-124 mission departs NASA's Kennedy Space Center after a successful launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. Seen here are Mission Specialists Ron Garan and Karen Nyberg heading for the T-38 training jets for their flight back to Houston. The crew is expected to return in late May for the May 31 launch of space shuttle Discovery. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew for the STS-124 mission departs NASA's Kennedy Space Center after a successful launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide climbs into the T-38 training jet for he flight back to Houston. The crew is expected to return in late May for the May 31 launch of space shuttle Discovery. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg waits to begin training on the M113 armored personnel carrier on Launch Pad 39B. She and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Mission Specialist Mike Fossum stands ready to practice driving the M113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency training. He and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Mission Specialist Ron Garan is pleased with his driving practice in the M113 armored personnel carrier, part of emergency training. He and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide takes his place in the M113 armored personnel carrier, to practice driving as part of emergency training. He and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew for the STS-124 mission departs NASA's Kennedy Space Center after a successful launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. Commander Mark Kelly (right) waits his turn to climb into the cockpit of the T-38 training jet for the flight back to Houston. Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff is already seated. The crew is expected to return in late May for the May 31 launch of space shuttle Discovery. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew for the STS-124 mission departs NASA's Kennedy Space Center after a successful launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. Seen here are Commander Mark Kelly and Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff heading for the T-38 training jets for their flight back to Houston. The crew is expected to return in late May for the May 31 launch of space shuttle Discovery. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg gets help donning her launch-and-entry suit for the simulated launch countdown the crew is starting. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Mission Specialist Ron Garan is ready to drive the M113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency training. Behind him is Pilot Ken Ham. They and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff dons his launch-and-entry suit for the simulated launch countdown the crew is starting. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Pilot Ken Ham stands ready to practice driving the M113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency training. Behind him is Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg. Ham and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Members of the space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 crew inspect cables on Launch Pad 39A. From left are Mission Specialists Mike Fossum and Akihiko Hoshide, who represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The crew is getting ready for launch at 5:02 p.m. on May 31. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Commander Mark Kelly is ready to practice driving the M113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency training. He and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff stands ready to practice driving the M113 armored personnel carrier as part of emergency training. He and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- STS-124 Mission Specialists Greg Chamitoff (left) and Akihiko Hoshide (center) and Commander Mark Kelly take part in M113 training on Launch Pad 39A. They and other crew members are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a dress launch rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Pilot Ken Ham tries on his helmet. The suit fit is part of the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard T-38 jet trainers to get ready for launch. From left, Mission Specialists Ron Garan and Mike Fossum are greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach and the director of Launch Vehicle Processing, Mike Wetmore. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Crew members for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A. A suit technician checks the communications cap inside Mission Specialist Mike Fossum's helmet. Fossum is making his second shuttle flight. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Launch is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Crew members for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A. Mission Specialist Ron Garan works on his glove. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Launch is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Mike Fossum is dressed in his launch-and-entry suit and ready to start the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After their arrival on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the crew members of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission pose for a group photo. From left are Mission Specialists Gregory Chamitoff and Akihiko Hoshide, Pilot Ken Ham, Mission Specialists Karen Nyberg and Mike Fossum, Commander Mark Kelly and Mission Specialist Ron Garan. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Crew members for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A. A suit technician helps Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg with her boots. Nyberg is making her first shuttle flight. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Launch is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a technician helps STS-124 Mission Specialist Ron Garan with the communication piece of his helmet. Garan has donned his launch-and-entry suit for the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Commander Mark Kelly dons his launch-and-entry suit needed for the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Crew members for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A. Pilot Ken Ham adjusts his glove. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Launch is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Pilot Ken Ham dons his launch-and-entry suit needed for the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a technician helps STS-124 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff with the communication piece of his helmet. Chamitoff has donned his launch-and-entry suit for the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Ron Garan dons his launch-and-entry suit needed for the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Crew members for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A. Commander Mark Kelly is ready to add his helmet. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Launch is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard T-38 jet trainers to get ready for launch. Seen here is Mission Specialist Mike Fossum, who is making his second shuttle flight. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

S124-E-007918 (9 June 2008) --- Russian Federal Space Agency cosmonauts Sergei Volkov (second right) and Oleg Kononenko (second left), Expedition 17 commander and flight engineer, respectively; along with NASA astronauts Greg Chamitoff (right), Expedition 17 flight engineer, and Garrett Reisman, STS-124 mission specialist, pose for a portrait following a joint news conference from the Kibo Japanese Pressurized Module of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Discovery is docked with the station. Reisman, who joined the station's crew in March, is being replaced by Chamitoff, who arrived at the station with the STS-124 crew.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Crew members for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A. Mission Specialist Mike Fossum signals he is ready for liftoff as he gets help with his helmet. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Launch is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Commander Mark Kelly tries on his helmet. The suit fit is part of the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard T-38 jet trainers to get ready for launch. Seen here is Pilot Ken Ham, who is making his first shuttle flight. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide is dressed and ready for the simulated launch countdown. Hoshide represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrive at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Mission Specialist Mike Fossum is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. TCDT is a rehearsal for launch that includes practicing emergency procedures, handling on-orbit equipment, and simulating a launch countdown. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard T-38 jet trainers to get ready for launch. At left is Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg; at center, Pilot Ken Ham is greeted by the director of Launch Vehicle Processing, Mike Wetmore. Behind them is Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Two of the crewmembers for the STS-124 mission, Pilot Ken Ham and Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide, depart NASA's Kennedy Space Center in a T-38 training jet after a successful launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. The crew is expected to return in late May for the May 31 launch of space shuttle Discovery. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff is dressed and ready for the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg has fitted her helmet and launch-and-entry suit for the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Mike Fossum gets a close look the bottom of the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module in space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. The payload bay walkdown is part of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard T-38 jet trainers to get ready for launch. At left, Pilot Ken Ham is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. At right is the director of Launch Vehicle Processing, Mike Wetmore. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Mike Fossum sits in his seat aboard space shuttle Discovery following the simulated launch countdown, part of the launch dress rehearsal known as the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including a simulated launch countdown, equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard T-38 jet trainers to get ready for launch. Seen here is Mission Specialist Ron Garan, who is making his first shuttle flight. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard T-38 jet trainers to get ready for launch. Seen here is Commander Mark Kelly, who is making his third shuttle flight. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Crew members for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A. Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide puts on his helmet to check communications. Hoshide represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Launch is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Pilot Ken Ham (right) and Mission Specialist Ron Garan get on their backs for a different view of the payload in space shuttle Discovery's payload bay. The payload bay walkdown is part of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Crew members for space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission don their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A. Commander Mark Kelly dons his helmet to check the communications. The STS-124 mission is the second of three flights launching components to complete the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory. The shuttle crew will install Kibo's large Japanese Pressurized Module and its remote manipulator system, or RMS. The 14-day flight includes three spacewalks. Launch is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission gathers on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center after their arrival aboard T-38 jet trainers to prepare for launch. Seen here is Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide, who represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- After their arrival on the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the crew members of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission gather to talk to the media. From left are Mission Specialist Gregory Chamitoff, Pilot Ken Ham, Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg, Commander Mark Kelly, and Mission Specialists Ron Garan, Akihiko Hoshide and Mike Fossum. Hoshide represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- On Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Akihiko Hoshide sits in his seat aboard space shuttle Discovery following the simulated launch countdown, part of the launch dress rehearsal known as the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including a simulated launch countdown, equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrive at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility to take part in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. Here, Commander Mark Kelly is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach. Behind Leinbach is Mission Specialist Greg Chamitoff. TCDT is a rehearsal for launch that includes practicing emergency procedures, handling on-orbit equipment, and simulating a launch countdown. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The crew of space shuttle Discovery's STS-124 mission arrives at the Shuttle Landing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center aboard T-38 jet trainers to get ready for launch. Seen here is Mission Specialist Karen Nyberg, making her first shuttle flight. Launch of Discovery is scheduled for 5:02 p.m. May 31. On the STS-124 mission, the crew of seven will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-124 Mission Specialist Mike Fossum tests the fit of his glove, part of the launch-and-entry suit needed for the simulated launch countdown. The simulation is the culmination of the launch dress rehearsal called the terminal countdown demonstration test. TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. On the STS-124 mission, the crew will deliver and install the Japanese Experiment Module – Pressurized Module and Japanese Remote Manipulator System. Discovery's launch is targeted for May 31. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett