NASA Administrator, Michael Griffin watches the launch of the Space Shuttle Endeavour (STS-126) from the Launch Control Center Friday, November 14, 2008, at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Shuttle lifted off from launch pad 39A at 7:55 p.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

The Moon is seen rising behind the Space Shuttle Endeavour (STS-126) on pad 39a Friday, November 14, 2008, at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla. The Shuttle lifted off from launch pad 39A at 7:55 p.m. EST. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

STS-126 Space Shuttle Endeavour Launch

STS-126 launch

STS-126 launch preparations

STS-126 launch

STS-126 launch preparations

STS-126 launch

STS-126 launch preparations

STS-126 launch

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After the successful launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-126 mission at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Center Director Bob Cabana and STS-126 NASA Test Director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson show off their newly clipped ties that signified their initiation experiencing their first shuttle launch. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Mission Specialist Steve Bowen (left) checks hardware in the space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Mission Specialists (from left) Steve Bowen, Shane Kimbrough and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper handle tools required for the mission. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 crew members are lowered inside space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay to inspect hardware like the shuttle's robotic arm and orbiter boom sensor system. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Mission Specialists Shane Kimbrough (left), Steve Bowen (center) and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper (right) look over tools required for the mission. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Pilot Eric Boe inspects the cockpit window of space shuttle Endeavour. Behind him is Commander Chris Ferguson. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson (left) and Mission Specialists Shane Kimbrough and Steve Bowen get a close look at hardware inside space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson is seen in the mid-deck of space shuttle Endeavour during inspection of hardware. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Pilot Eric Boe inspects the cockpit window of space shuttle Endeavour. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Mission Specialist Shane Kimbrough gets a closer look at hardware inside space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson inspects the cockpit window of space shuttle Endeavour. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Mission Specialists (from left) Steve Bowen, Shane Kimbrough and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper handle tools required for the mission. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Mission Specialist Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper (top right) is shown part of the equipment stored in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 crew members are lowered inside space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay to inspect hardware like the shuttle's robotic arm and orbiter boom sensor system. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson (left) and Mission Specialist Steve Bowen get a close look at hardware inside space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Mission Specialists Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper and Steve Bowen look over tools required for the mission. Members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew are at Kennedy to participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. The CEIT provides experience handling tools, equipment and hardware they will use on the mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Center Director Bob Cabana watches the successful launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-126 mission in the Firing Room of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

S126-E-005028 (14 Nov. 2008) --- Astronaut Shane Kimbrough, STS-126 mission specialist, attired in his shuttle launch and entry suit, is pictured on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour during post launch activities.

Kimbrough on MDDK during STS-126

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Commander Christopher Ferguson checks data on equipment that will fly on the mission. Shuttle crews frequently visit Kennedy to get hands-on experience, called a crew equipment interface test, with hardware and equipment for their missions. On STS-126, Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Atop twin towers of flame, space shuttle Endeavour races past the lightning mast on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, heading into space on the STS-126 mission. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 Mission Specialist Donald Pettit (left) and Pilot Eric Boe (right) check data on equipment that will fly on the mission. Shuttle crews frequently visit Kennedy to get hands-on experience, called a crew equipment interface test, with hardware and equipment for their missions. On STS-126, Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 crew members handle equipment that will fly on the mission. At center is Mission Specialist Donald Pettit; on the right is Pilot Eric Boe. Shuttle crews frequently visit Kennedy to get hands-on experience, called a crew equipment interface test, with hardware and equipment for their missions. On STS-126, Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – From Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, space shuttle Endeavour roars into space atop twin columns of fire, lighting the night sky, Liftoff of Endeavour on the STS-126 mission was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Blazing light surrounds Launch Pad 39A and glows in the nearby water at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida as space shuttle Endeavour leaps into the sky on the STS-126 mission. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph-Kevin O'Connell

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. Here, Commander Chris Ferguson examines the nose cone of Endeavour. The CEIT provides hands-on experience with hardware and equipment slated to fly on their mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, external fuel tank 129 is lowered into high bay 1 where it will be mated with the solid rocket boosters. The external tank-SRB stack will be mated in two weeks to space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The STS-126 mission will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. In the center is Commander Chris Ferguson. The CEIT provides hands-on experience with hardware and equipment slated to fly on their mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Atop twin towers of flame, space shuttle Endeavour erupts from the smoke and steam as it hurtles into space from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Liftoff on the STS-126 mission was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Space shuttle Endeavour punches a hole in the dark of night as it hurtles into the sky atop a column of fire on the STS-126 mission. Liftoff from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, external fuel tank 129 is lowered between the solid rocket boosters for mating on the mobile launcher platform in high bay 1. The external tank-SRB stack will then be mated in two weeks to space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The STS-126 mission will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Atop twin towers of flame, space shuttle Endeavour races past the lightning mast on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, heading into space on the STS-126 mission. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, STS-126 crew members check out the interior of the multi-purpose logistics module that will fly on the mission. Shuttle crews frequently visit Kennedy to get hands-on experience, called a crew equipment interface test, with hardware and equipment for their missions. On STS-126, Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. From left are Mission Specialists Steve Bowen and Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper. The CEIT provides hands-on experience with hardware and equipment slated to fly on their mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, external fuel tank 129 is lifted out of the checkout cell to high bay 1 where it will be mated with the solid rocket boosters. The external tank-SRB stack will be mated in two weeks to space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The STS-126 mission will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, external fuel tank 129 is lifted out of the checkout cell to high bay 1where it will be mated with the solid rocket boosters. The external tank-SRB stack will be mated in two weeks to space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The STS-126 mission will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, external fuel tank 129 is lowered between the solid rocket boosters for mating on the mobile launcher platform in high bay 1. The external tank-SRB stack will then be mated in two weeks to space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The STS-126 mission will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The fiery glow from the liftoff of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-126 mission fills the Launch Pad 39A and water nearby at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray-Tom Farrar

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Light-filled clouds of smoke and steam roll across Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center as space shuttle Endeavour roars into the night sky on the STS-126 mission. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, a worker keeps watch as external fuel tank 129 is lifted out of the checkout cell to high bay 1 where it will be mated with the solid rocket boosters. The external tank-SRB stack will be mated in two weeks to space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The STS-126 mission will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. From left are Mission Specialist Donald Pettit and Pilot Eric Boe. The CEIT provides hands-on experience with hardware and equipment slated to fly on their mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Atop twin towers of flame, space shuttle Endeavour races past the lightning mast on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, heading into space on the STS-126 mission. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, workers keep watch as external fuel tank 129 is lowered into high bay 1 where it will be mated with the solid rocket boosters on the mobile launcher platform. The external tank-SRB stack will be mated in two weeks to space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The STS-126 mission will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, external fuel tank 129 is lowered into high bay 1 between the solid rocket boosters for mating on the mobile launcher platform. The external tank-SRB stack will then be mated in two weeks to space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The STS-126 mission will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. Shown here is Mission Specialist Steve Bowen. The CEIT provides hands-on experience with hardware and equipment slated to fly on their mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, external fuel tank 129 is lowered into high bay 1 between the solid rocket boosters at left for mating on the mobile launcher platform. The external tank-SRB stack will then be mated in two weeks to space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The STS-126 mission will deliver a Multi-Purpose Logistics Module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Above Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the full moon hovers over space shuttle Endeavour waiting for liftoff on the STS-126 mission. Liftoff was scheduled for 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The light-filled clouds of smoke and steam spotlight space shuttle Endeavour as it lifts off on the STS-126 mission from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Tony Gray-Tom Farrar

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. Shown here is Mission Specialist Shane Kimbrough. The CEIT provides hands-on experience with hardware and equipment slated to fly on their mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 2 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 crew participate in a crew equipment interface test, or CEIT. From left are Mission Specialists Shane Kimbrough and Steve Bowen. The CEIT provides hands-on experience with hardware and equipment slated to fly on their mission. Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station on the STS-126 mission. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – After the successful launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-126 mission at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach (right) performs the tie-cutting ceremony on Center Director Bob Cabana in the Firing Room of the Launch Control Center. Cabana experienced his first shuttle launch as director. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

S126-E-005050 (14 Nov. 2008) --- Astronaut Eric Boe, STS-126 pilot, takes a moment for a photo while occupying the pilot's station on the flight deck of Space Shuttle Endeavour during post launch activities.

Boe on FD during STS-126

S126-E-005049 (14 Nov. 2008) --- Astronaut Chris Ferguson, STS-126 commander, looks over a checklist while occupying the commander's station on the flight deck of Space Shuttle Endeavour during post launch activities.

Ferguson on FD during STS-126

S126-E-005061 (14 Nov. 2008) --- Astronaut Donald Pettit, STS-126 mission specialist, takes a moment for a photo on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour during post launch activities.

Pettit on MDDK during STS-126

S126-E-005068 (14 Nov. 2008) --- Astronaut Steve Bowen, STS-126 mission specialist, prepares to use a still camera on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour during post launch activities.

Bowen on MDDK during STS-126

S126-E-005055 (14 Nov. 2008) --- Astronaut Steve Bowen, STS-126 mission specialist, works among stowage bags on the middeck of the Space Shuttle Endeavour during post launch activities.

Bowen on MDDK during STS-126

S126-E-006678 (14 Nov. 2008) --- Astronaut Donald Pettit, STS-126 mission specialist, uses a computer on the flight deck of Space Shuttle Endeavour during post launch activities.

Pettit on FD during STS-126

S126-E-006680 (14 Nov. 2008) --- Astronaut Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, STS-126 mission specialist, takes a moment for a photo on the flight deck of Space Shuttle Endeavour during post launch activities.

Stefanyshyn-Piper on FD during STS-126

S126-E-005067 (14 Nov. 2008) --- Astronaut Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper, STS-126 mission specialist, works on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour during post launch activities.

Stefanyshyn-Piper on MDDK during STS-126

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Firing Room of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach (left) congratulates STS-126 NASA Test Director Charlie Blackwell-Thompson with the traditional tie-cutting ceremony for a first-time NTD. Congratulations were offered for the successful launch of space shuttle Endeavour. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Firing Room of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Center Director Bob Cabana congratulations the launch team for the successful launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-126 mission. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the Firing Room of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach (right) and others applaud the successful launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-126 mission. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Pilot Eric Boe is helped by suit technicians to put on a harness over his launch and entry suit. In the background is the hatch for entry into space shuttle Endeavour. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Liftoff is scheduled for 7:55 p.m. EST Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph-Kevin O'Connell

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Wearing his launch-and-entry suit, STS-126 Pilot Eric Boe is seated in the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice shuttle landings on the Shuttle Landing Facility's runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission crew members arrived at Kennedy to prepare for launch. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The 15-day mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Liftoff is scheduled for 7:55 p.m. EST Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Crew members for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 mission put on their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Mission Specialist Shane Kimbrough dons his helmet. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Liftoff is scheduled for 7:55 p.m. EST Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Center Director Bob Cabana (center left) watches the successful launch of space shuttle Endeavour on the STS-126 mission in the Firing Room of the Launch Control Center at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Crew members for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 mission put on their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Mission Specialist Don Pettit dons his helmet. Pettit is making his second shuttle flight. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Liftoff is scheduled for 7:55 p.m. EST Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson is helped by suit technicians to put on a harness over his launch and entry suit. In the background is the hatch for entry into space shuttle Endeavour. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Liftoff is scheduled for 7:55 p.m. EST Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph-Kevin O'Connell

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The water next to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida captures the brilliance of the launch of space shuttle Endeavour on its STS-126 mission while billows of smoke and steam roll across the pad. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long-duration missions. Photo courtesy of Scott Andrews

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JOHNSON SPACE CENTER, Houston – STS126-S-002 -- Attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits, these seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-126 crew portrait. Astronaut Christopher J. Ferguson, commander, is at center; and astronaut Eric A. Boe, pilot, is third from the right. Remaining crewmembers, pictured from left to right, are astronauts Sandra H. Magnus, Stephen G. Bowen, Donald R. Pettit, Robert S. (Shane) Kimbrough and Heidemarie M. Stefanyshyn-Piper, all mission specialists. Magnus is scheduled to join Expedition 18 as flight engineer after launching to the International Space Station on mission STS-126.

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Wearing his launch-and-entry suit, STS-126 Commander Chris Ferguson is seated in the Shuttle Training Aircraft to practice shuttle landings on the Shuttle Landing Facility's runway at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission crew members arrived at Kennedy to prepare for launch. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The 15-day mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Liftoff is scheduled for 7:55 p.m. EST Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Crew members for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-126 mission put on their launch and entry suits before heading to Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Mission Specialist Steve Bowen is making his first shuttle flight. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Liftoff is scheduled for 7:55 p.m. EST Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

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STS126-S-002 (5 March 2008) --- Attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits, these seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-126 crew portrait. Astronaut Christopher J. Ferguson, commander, is at center; and astronaut Eric A. Boe, pilot, is third from the right. Remaining crewmembers, pictured from left to right, are astronauts Sandra H. Magnus, Stephen G. Bowen, Donald R. Pettit, Robert S. (Shane) Kimbrough and Heidemarie M. Stefanyshyn-Piper, all mission specialists. Magnus is scheduled to join Expedition 18 as flight engineer after launching to the International Space Station on mission STS-126.

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In the White Room on Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, STS-126 Mission Specialist Sandra Magnus is helped by suit technicians to put on a harness over her launch and entry suit. In the background is the hatch for entry into space shuttle Endeavour. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Liftoff is scheduled for 7:55 p.m. EST Nov. 14. Photo credit: NASA/Sandra Joseph-Kevin O'Connell

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Blazing light surrounds space shuttle Endeavour, eclipsing the light from the nearby full moon, as it roars into space from Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center during the launch of the STS-126 mission. Liftoff was on time at 7:55 p.m. EST. STS-126 is the 124th space shuttle flight and the 27th flight to the International Space Station. The mission will feature four spacewalks and work that will prepare the space station to house six crew members for long- duration missions. Photo credit: NASA/Troy Cryder