STS050-291-006 (9 July 1992) --- In orbit crew portrait of STS-50 crewmembers in the Spacelab.

S91-46260 (1991) --- Astronaut Eugene H. Trinh, STS-50 USML payload specialist.

As the orbiter Columbia (STS-50) rolled down Runway 33 of Kennedy Space Center's (KSC) Shuttle Landing Facility, its distinctively colored drag chute deployed to slow down the spaceship. This landing marked OV-102's first end-of-mission landing at KSC and the tenth in the program, and the second shuttle landing with the drag chute. Edwards Air Force Base, CA, was the designated prime for the landing of Mission STS-50, but poor weather necessitated the switch to KSC after a one-day extension of the historic flight. STS-50 was the longest in Shuttle program historyo date, lasting 13 days, 19 hours, 30 minutes and 4 seconds. A crew of seven and the USML-1 were aboard.

STS-50, USML-1, Spacelab module in cargo bay with earth in background

Payload Commander, Bonnie Dunbar working onboard STS-50 USML-1

Payload Commander, Bornie Dunbar loading samples in the CGF onboard STS-50, USML-1.

Onboard Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-50) in the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) mission specialist Ellen S. Baker is hard at work.

Onboard Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-50) payload commander Bornie Dunbar performs life science experiments on crewmember payload specialist Lawrence Delucas in the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) science module.

STS050-S-002 (24 Jan. 1992) --- The seven crew members assigned to NASA's mission pose for the traditional crew portrait. The crew was in Palmdale, California for the Space Shuttle Columbia's Extended-Duration Orbiter (EDO) modifications roll-out. Astronaut Richard N. Richards, mission commander, is center. Astronaut Kenneth D. Bowersox, pilot, is second from left. Others, left to right, are astronauts Ellen S. Baker, mission specialist; Bonnie J. Dunbar, payload commander; and Carl J. Meade, mission specialist; Eugene H. Trinh and Lawrence J. DeLucas, payload specialists.

STS050-S-001 (January 1992) --- Designed by the flight crew, the insignia for the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1), captures a space shuttle traveling above Earth while trailing the USML banner. The orbiter is oriented vertically in a typical attitude for microgravity science and in this position represents the numeral 1 in the mission's abbreviated title. This flight represents the first in a series of USML flights on which the primary objective is microgravity science, planned and executed through the combined efforts of the United States of America's government, industry and academia. Visible in the payload bay are the Spacelab module, and the extended duration orbiter "cryo" pallet which will be making its first flight. The small g and Greek letter mu on the Spacelab module symbolize the microgravity environment being used for research in the areas of materials science and fluid physics. The large block letter U extends outside the patch perimeter, symbolizing the potential for the experiments on this flight to expand the current boundaries of knowledge in microgravity science. The Stars and Stripes of the USML block letters and the United States landmass in the Earth scene below reflect the crew's pride in the United States origin of all onboard experiments. The NASA insignia design for space shuttle flights is reserved for use by the astronauts and for other official use as the NASA Administrator may authorize. Public availability has been approved only in the forms of illustrations by the various news media. When and if there is any change in this policy, which is not anticipated, the change will be publicly announced. Photo credit: NASA

S91-41413 (July 1991) --- Payload specialist Lawrence J. DeLucas, Ph.D.

Dr. Larry DeLucas operating the USML-1 Glovebox (GBX) during the USML-1 (STS-50) mission. Dr. DeLucas was a Payload Specialist during the USML-1 mission and is Associate Director of the Center for Macromolecular Crystallography at The University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Onboard Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-50) all work and no play make commander Richard (Dick) Richards and payload commander Bornie Dunbar take a break from their work in the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) responsibilities.

STS-50 Columbia's, Orbiter Vehicle (OV) 102's, main landing gear touches down on runway 33 at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) Shuttle Landing Facility (SLF) producing a small cloud of dust. Landing occurred at 7:42 am (Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)). In this view of the OV-102's starboard side, the nose landing gear (NLG) continues to ride above the runway surface. Florida vegetation, a runway sign, and runway lights appear in the foreground.

Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-50) onboard photo of the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) module in payload bay in this scene over the southern two-thirds of the Florida peninsula. Kennedy Space Center (KSC) can be seen just above Columbia's starboard wing.

Onboard Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-50) crewmembers rally around the American flag in the United States Microgravity Laboratory-1 (USML-1). Pictured are (from top, left to right) pilot Kerneth D. Bowersox; payload specialist Lawrence J. Delucas; commander Richard N. Richards; payload commander Bonnie J. Dunbar; mission specialists Carl J. Meade and Ellen S. Baker; and payload specialist Eugene H. Trinh.

Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-50) launched into history carrying crew of seven and its payload was comprised of the US Microgravity Laboratory 1 (USML-1).The USML-1 was one of NASA's missions dedicated to scientific investigations in a microgravity environment inside the Spacelab module. Investigations aboard the USML-1 included: materials science, fluid dynamics, biotechnology (crystal growth), and combustion science. Managed by Marshall Space Flight Center, the STS-50 mission was plarned for a 13-day duration, the mission ended with 14 days in space, the longest Shuttle mission to date.

S92-41075 (3 June 1992) --- The Space Shuttle Columbia arrived at Launch Pad 39A for final preparation on its launch of STS-50 scheduled for later this month. The journey from the Vehicle Assembly Building began shortly before midnight and ended six hours later. STS-50 will be Columbia's first space flight since June 1991, after which the oldest orbiter in the fleet was removed from operational service for extended checkout and modification. STS-50 also will be longest Shuttle flight to date, slated to last 13 days.* *Because of inclement weather at the prime landing facility, STS-50 landed one-day later, marking a Shuttle record 14-days in orbit.

Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-50) onboard photo of astronauts working in United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1). USML-1 will fly in orbit for extended periods of time attached to the Shuttle, providing greater opportunities for research in materials science, fluid dynamics, biotechnology, and combustion science. The scientific data gained from the USML-1 missions will constitute a landmark in space science, pioneering investigations into the role of gravity in a wide array of important processes and phenomena. In addition, the missions will also provide much of the experience in performing research in space and in the design of instruments needed for Space Station Freedom and the programs to follow in the 21st Century.

The first United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) flew in orbit inside the Spacelab science module for extended periods, providing scientists and researchers greater opportunities for research in materials science, fluid dynamics, biotechnology (crystal growth), and combustion science. This photograph shows Astronaut Larry De Lucas wearing a stocking plethysmograph during the mission. Muscle size in the legs changes with exposure to microgravity. A stocking plethysmograph, a device for measuring the volume of a limb, was used to help determine these changes. Several times over the course of the mission, an astronaut will put on the plethysmograph, pull the tapes tight and mark them. By comparing the marks, changes in muscle volume can be measured. The USML-1 was launched aboard the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia (STS-50) on June 25, 1992.

The first United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) provided scientific research in materials science, fluid dynamics, biotechnology, and combustion science in a weightless environment inside the Spacelab module. This photograph is a close-up view of the Glovebox in operation during the mission. The Spacelab Glovebox, provided by the European Space Agency, offers experimenters new capabilities to test and develop science procedures and technologies in microgravity. It enables crewmembers to handle, transfer, and otherwise manipulate materials in ways that are impractical in the open Spacelab. The facility is equipped with three doors: a central port through which experiments are placed in the Glovebox and two glovedoors on both sides with an attachment for gloves or adjustable cuffs and adapters for cameras. The Glovebox has an enclosed compartment that offers a clean working space and minimizes the contamination risks to both Spacelab and experiment samples. Although fluid containment and ease of cleanup are major benefits provided by the facility, it can also contain powders and bioparticles; toxic, irritating, or potentially infectious materials; and other debris produced during experiment operations. The facility is equipped with photographic/video capabilities and permits mounting a microscope. For the USML-1 mission, the Glovebox experiments fell into four basic categories: fluid dynamics, combustion science, crystal growth, and technology demonstration. The USML-1 flew aboard the STS-50 mission in June 1992.

In this photograph, astronaut Eugene Trinh, a payload specialist for this mission, is working at the Drop Physics Module (DPM), and mission specialist Carl Meade is working on the experiment at the Glovebox inside the first United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) Science Module. The USML-1 was one of NASA's missions dedicated to scientific investigations in a microgravity environment inside the Spacelab module. Investigations aboard the USML-1 included: materials science, fluid dynamics, biotechnology (crystal growth), and combustion science. The DPM is dedicated to the detailed study of the dynamics of fluid drops in microgravity. The Glovebox offers experimenters new capabilities and technologies in microgravity with a clean working space and minimizes contamination risks to both Spacelab and experiment samples. Payload specialists are professional scientists or engineers whose only assignment on a space flight is to carry out scientific and technological experiments. Their specific training for a space flight is usually limited to a short period of learning how to live and work in weightlessness. Mission Specialists are both professional scientists and career astronauts. Thus they are a link or bridge between the other crew members, and combine the functions of resident maintenance engineers, in-space counterparts of flight engineers in aircraft, and fully qualified scientists. The USML-1 flew aboard the STS-50 mission on June 1992, and was managed by the Marshall Space Flight Center.

The first United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) was one of NASA's science and technology programs that provided scientists an opportunity to research various scientific investigations in a weightless environment inside the Spacelab module. It also provided demonstrations of new equipment to help prepare for advanced microgravity research and processing aboard the Space Station. The USML-1 flew in orbit for extended periods, providing greater opportunities for research in materials science, fluid dynamics, biotechnology (crystal growth), and combustion science. This photograph shows astronaut Ken Bowersox conducting the Astroculture experiment in the middeck of the orbiter Columbia. This experiment was to evaluate and find effective ways to supply nutrient solutions for optimizing plant growth and avoid releasing solutions into the crew quarters in microgravity. Since fluids behave differently in microgravity, plant watering systems that operate well on Earth do not function effectively in space. Plants can reduce the costs of providing food, oxygen, and pure water as well as lower the costs of removing carbon dioxide in human space habitats. The Astroculture experiment flew aboard the STS-50 mission in June 1992 and was managed by the Marshall Space Flight Center.

This is a photograph of the Spacelab module for the first United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) mission, showing logos of the Spacelab mission on the left and the USML-1 mission on the right. The USML-1 was one part of a science and technology program that opened NASA's next great era of discovery and established the United States' leadership in space. From investigations designed to gather fundamental knowledge in a variety of areas to demonstrations of new equipment, USML-1 forged the way for future USML missions and helped prepare for advanced microgravity research and processing aboard the Space Station. Thirty-one investigations comprised the payload of the first USML-1 mission. The experiments aboard USML-1 covered five basic areas: fluid dynamics, the study of how liquids and gases respond to the application or absence of differing forces; crystal growth, the production of inorganic and organic crystals; combustion science, the study of the processes and phenomena of burning; biological science, the study of plant and animal life; and technology demonstrations. The USML-1 was managed by the Marshall Space Flight Center and launched aboard the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia (STS-50) on June 25, 1992.

The first United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) was one of NASA's science and technology programs that provided scientists an opportunity to research various scientific investigations in a weightless environment inside the Spacelab module. It also provided demonstrations of new equipment to help prepare for advanced microgravity research and processing aboard the Space Station. The USML-1 flew in orbit for extended periods, providing greater opportunities for research in materials science, fluid dynamics, biotechnology (crystal growth), and combustion science. This is a close-up view of the Astroculture experiment rack in the middeck of the orbiter. The Astroculture experiment was to evaluate and find effective ways to supply nutrient solutions for optimizing plant growth and avoid releasing solutions into the crew quarters in microgravity. Since fluids behave differently in microgravity, plant watering systems that operate well on Earth do not function effectively in space. Plants can reduce the costs of providing food, oxygen, and pure water, as well as lower the costs of removing carbon dioxide in human space habitats. The USML-1 flew aboard the STS-50 mission on June 1992 and was managed by the Marshall Space Flight Center.

The STS-50 crew portrait includes (from left to right): Ellen S. Baker, mission specialist; Kenneth D. Bowersox, pilot; Bonnie J. Dunbar, payload commander; Richard N. Richards, commander; Carl J. Meade, mission specialist; Eugene H. Trinh, payload specialist; and Lawrence J. DeLucas, payload specialist. Launched aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia on June 25, 1992 at 12:12:23 pm (EDT), the primary payload for the mission was the U.S. Microgravity Laboratory-1 (USML-1) featuring a pressurized Spacelab module.

STS50-262-004 (25 June-9 July 1992) --- Astronaut Kenneth D. Bowersox, STS-50 pilot, holds an autoclave used in the growing of zeolite crystals on the middeck of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia. He is standing near the Zeolite Crystal Growth (ZCG) furnace, which is housed in the space of two stowage lockers. On the 14-day U.S. Microgravity Laboratory mission, zeolite crystals were grown in 38 individual autoclaves, which were joined in pairs to be inserted into the 19 furnace orifices. While the autoclaves appear the same externally, there are several types of internal arrangements that were tested to determine which one provides the best mixing of the component solutions. The portrait of alternate payload specialist Albert Sacco, Jr. is mounted nearby. Sacco, serving as a ground controller at Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama, worked in conjunction with the red shift crew in the science module.

STS050-291-027 (25 June-9 July 1992) --- Astronaut Bonnie J. Dunbar uses a Doppler to collect medical data from Lawrence J. DeLucas, payload specialist, during his diagnostic "run" in the Lower Body Negative Pressure device (LBNP). The Doppler is used to pick up high-frequency sound waves from the surface of the heart, thus producing pictures on the monitor of the American Flight Echocardiograph (AFE). The result of the LBNP procedure is expected to be an increased tolerance of orthostatis - or standing upright - upon return to Earth's gravity. LBNP has been used a number of times in the United States space program, as early as the Skylab missions. STS-50 is the fourth flight of the current collapsible unit. Researchers are refining the LBNP protocol which will be used operationally on future 13 through 16 day missions.

STS050-S-105 (9 July 1992) --- The main drag chute on the Space Shuttle Columbia is fully deployed soon after the Space Shuttle touches down at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) landing facility. Landing occurred at 7:42 a.m. (EDT). Seven crew members, including five astronauts and two scientists from the private sector spent 14 days in space supporting the U.S. Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1). This marks the first time for usage of the parachute system for a KSC landing and the second occurrence in the program.

STS050-S-040 (25 June 1992) --- A low-angle perspective captures the Space Shuttle Columbia as it lifts off on its way toward a scheduled record 13-day mission in Earth-orbit. Liftoff occurred at 12:12:23:0534 p.m. (EDT) on June 25, 1992. The modified Columbia is NASA's first Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO). Five NASA astronauts and two scientists/payload specialists are aboard. The seven will divide into two shifts to support United States Microgravity Laboratory 1 (USML-1) research.

STS050-255-027 (25 June-9 July 1992) --- Payload specialist Eugene H. Trinh, left, and astronaut Carl J. Meade, mission specialist, go to work in the U.S. Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) science module as the blue shift crew takes over from the red. Trinh is working with an experiment at the Drop Physics Module (DPM) and Meade prepares to monitor an experiment in the Glovebox. The two joined four other astronauts and a second scientist from the private sector for 14-days of scientific data-gathering.

Payload Specialist Larry DeLucas and Payload Commander Bornie Dunbar working in USML-1.

STS050-S-038 (25 June 1992) --- The Space Shuttle Columbia, NASA's first Extended Duration Orbiter (EDO), lifts off on its way toward a scheduled record 13-day mission in Earth-orbit. Liftoff occurred at 12:12:23:0534 p.m. (EDT) on June 25, 1992. Five NASA astronauts and two scientists/payload specialists are aboard. The seven will divide into two shifts to support United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML) research.

The first United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) flew in orbit inside the Spacelab science module for extended periods, providing scientists and researchers greater opportunities for research in materials science, fluid dynamics, biotechnology (crystal growth), and combustion science. In this photograph, Astronaut Bornie Dunbar and Astronaut Larry DeLucas are conducting the Lower Body Negative Pressure (LBNP) experiment, which is to protect the health and safety of the crew and to shorten the time required to readapt to gravity when they return to Earth. When humans go into space, the lack of gravity causes many changes in the body. One change is that fluids normally kept in the lower body by gravity, shift upward to the head and chest. This is why astronauts' faces appear chubby or puffy. The change in fluid volume also affects the heart. The reduced fluid volume means that there is less blood to circulate through the body. Crewmembers may experience reduced blood flow to the brain when returning to Earth. This leads to fainting or near-fainting episodes. With the use of LBNP to simulate the pull of gravity in conjunction with fluids, salt tablets can recondition the cardiovascular system. This treatment, called "soak," is effective up to 24 hours. The LBNP uses a three-layer collapsible cylinder that seals around the crewmember's waist which simulates the effects of gravity and helps pull fluids into the lower body. The data collected will be analyzed to determine physiological changes in the crewmembers and effectiveness of the treatment. The USML-1 was launched aboard the Space Shuttle Orbiter Columbia (STS-50) on June 25, 1992.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-50: Columbia

STS-50 Onboard photo: Payload Commander Bornie Dunbar unloading the SACA.

Closeup view inside glovebox showing a candle flame. The Candle Flames in Microgravity experiment is carried onboard Columbia to examine whether candle flames can be sustained in space; to study the interaction and physical properties of diffusion flames. In space, where buoyancy-driven convection is reduced, the role diffusion plays in sustaining candle flames can be isolated. Results have implications for other diffusion flame studies. Diffusion flames are the most common type of flame on Earth.

STS050-25-024 (25 June-9 July 1992) --- Astronauts Richard N. Richards and Bonnie J. Dunbar, momentarily on leave from the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) science module, share a meal on the middeck of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia. Richards is mission commander, and Dunbar is payload commander on the record-setting 14-day mission. Near Richards' head is the Astroculture experiment.

STS050-06-011 (25 June-9 July 1992) --- Astronaut Carl J. Meade (left), mission specialist, and Eugene H. Trinh, payload specialist, share a view through one of the Space Shuttle Columbia's aft flight deck windows during a break in photography of Earth. The two were among seven crew members who shared 14 record-setting days aboard the Space Shuttle supporting the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) mission.

Payload Commander, Bornie Dunbar activating ZCG autoclave onboard STS-50, USML-1

Larry DeLucas with the (LBNP) Lower Body Negative Pressure Experiment onboard STS-50.

Samples of zinc-alloyed cadmium mercury grown on Earth (1g) and in space (ug) are shown at the same magnification. The space-grown crystal has a more uniform microstructure. Flown on STS-50 USML-1.

Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-50) astronaut Bornie Dunbar wears protective goggles to assemble a zeolite sample cartridge for the Crystal Growth Furnace (CGF) in the United States Microgravity Laboratory-1 (USML-1) science module.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Family members of the STS-107 astronauts and other dignitaries attend a dedication ceremony at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. During this solemn event, the names of the STS-107 astronauts who lost their lives during the Columbia accident -- Rick Husband, Willie McCool, Laurel Clark, Michael Anderson, David Brown, Kalpana Chawla, and Ilan Ramon -- join the names of 17 other space heroes who gave their lives for the U.S. space program. The "Space Mirror," 42 1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument's black granite surface.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Family members of the STS-107 astronauts and other dignitaries attend a dedication ceremony at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. During this solemn event, the names of the STS-107 astronauts who lost their lives during the Columbia accident -- Rick Husband, Willie McCool, Laurel Clark, Michael Anderson, David Brown, Kalpana Chawla, and Ilan Ramon -- join the names of 17 other space heroes who gave their lives for the U.S. space program. The "Space Mirror," 42 1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument's black granite surface.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Family members of the STS-107 astronauts and other dignitaries attend a dedication ceremony at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. During this solemn event, the names of the STS-107 astronauts who lost their lives during the Columbia accident -- Rick Husband, Willie McCool, Laurel Clark, Michael Anderson, David Brown, Kalpana Chawla, and Ilan Ramon -- join the names of 17 other space heroes who gave their lives for the U.S. space program. The "Space Mirror," 42 1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument's black granite surface.

STS050-02-001 (9 July 1992) --- View showing Payload Specialists Bonnie Dunbar and Larry DeLucas in the aft section of the U. S. Microgravity Laboratory-1. Dunbar is preparing to load a sample in the Crystal Growth Furnace (CGF) Integrated Furnace Experiment Assembly (IFEA) in rack 9 of the Microgravity Laboratory. DeLucas is checking out the multipurpose Glovebox Facility.

STS050-21-035 (25 June- 9 July 1992) --- Astronaut Ellen S. Baker, mission specialist, works out on the bicycle ergometer on the mid-deck of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia. Baker was joined by four other astronauts and two scientists from the private sector for the record-setting 14-day United States Microgravity Laboratory 1 (USML-1) mission.

STS050-81-027 (25 June-9 July 1992) --- The first United States Microgravity Laboratory 1 (USML-1) module is pictured in the payload bay of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia in this scene over the southern two-thirds of the Florida peninsula. The Kennedy Space Center (KSC), where the mission began, can be seen just above Columbia's starboard wing. (Hold photo with number at left.)

STS050-02-023 (25 June-9 July 1992) --- Astronaut Bonnie J. Dunbar, payload commander, unstows United States Microgravity Laboratory 1 (USML-1) experiment paraphernalia in early stages of the mission. The Multipurpose Glove Box (MPGB) is at upper left. And, at right center, is the Space Station design foot restraint, making its first flight aboard a Space Shuttle on the record-setting 14-day mission.

STS050-301-001 (25 June-9July 1992) --- Astronaut Carl J. Meade, mission specialist, works with the Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus in the science module aboard the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia. Payload specialist Eugene H. Trinh is partially visible (left), monitoring an experiment in the Drop Physics Module (DPM). The two joined four other astronauts and a second scientist from the private sector for 14-days of scientific data-gathering.

View showing Payload Specialists Bonnie Dunbar and Larry DeLucas in the aft section of the U. S. Microgravity Laboratory-1. Dunbar prepares to load a sample in the Crystal Growth Furnace (CGF) Integrated Furnace Experiment Assembly (IFEA) in rack 9 of the Microgravity Laboratory, while DeLucas checks out the multi-purpose Glovebox Facility.

This view of the Malay Peninsula shows the city state of Singapore, Malaysia (1.5N, 104.0E) with all its urban, industrial and commercial land use areas. Singapore is located at the south tip of the Malay peninsula separated by the Johor Strait. The prosporous island state, once Asia's major trade center, is now highly industrialized despite its small size and its ideal location has made this island a hub of trade, shipping and service industries.

STS095-E-5262 (4 Nov. 1998) --- Astronaut Scott E. Parazynski, STS-95 mission specialist, with housekeeping chores on flight day seven aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery. The photo was taken with an electronic still camera (ESC) at 22:54:50 GMT, Nov. 4.

ISS028-E-005646 (27 May 2011) --- The newly-attached 50-foot-long Enhanced International Space Station Boom Assembly (left) is featured in this image photographed by a spacewalker, using a fish-eye lens attached to an electronic still camera, during the STS-134 mission?s fourth session of extravehicular activity (EVA).

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - NASA T-38 jets fly over the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in the Missing Man Formation. During this dedication ceremony, the names of the STS-107 astronauts who lost their lives during the Columbia accident -- Rick Husband, Willie McCool, Laurel Clark, Michael Anderson, David Brown, Kalpana Chawla, and Ilan Ramon -- join the names of 17 other space heroes who gave their lives for the U.S. space program. The "Space Mirror," 42 1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument's black granite surface.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A ceremonial wreath is placed at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. During this dedication ceremony, the names of the STS-107 astronauts who lost their lives during the Columbia accident -- Rick Husband, Willie McCool, Laurel Clark, Michael Anderson, David Brown, Kalpana Chawla, and Ilan Ramon -- join the names of 17 other space heroes who gave their lives for the U.S. space program. The "Space Mirror," 42 1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument's black granite surface.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A ceremonial wreath is placed at the Space Mirror Memorial at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. During this dedication ceremony, the names of the STS-107 astronauts who lost their lives during the Columbia accident -- Rick Husband, Willie McCool, Laurel Clark, Michael Anderson, David Brown, Kalpana Chawla, and Ilan Ramon -- join the names of 17 other space heroes who gave their lives for the U.S. space program. The "Space Mirror," 42 1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument's black granite surface.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The new Florida license plate honoring the fallen astronauts of Challenger and Columbia is unveiled at the KSC Visitor Complex, in front of the Space Memorial Mirror. Participants in the dedication included (from left) Susan Berry, a teacher from Mila Elementary School in Brevard County; Sen. Bill Posey; Florida Rep. Ralph Poppell; and Kirstie McCool Chadwick, sister of William “Willie” J. McCool, who was the pilot on mission STS-107 that ended in disaster Feb. 1, 2003. The Space Mirror, 42-1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument’s black granite surface.

The crew assigned to the STS-51C mission included (kneeling in front left to right) Loren J. Schriver, pilot; and Thomas K. Mattingly, II, commander. Standing, left to right, are Gary E. Payton, payload specialist; and mission specialists James F. Buchli, and Ellison L. Onzuka. Launched aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery on January 24, 1985 at 2:50:00 pm (EST), the STS-51C was the first mission dedicated to the Department of Defense (DOD).

The STS-103 crew portrait includes (from left) C. Michael Foale, mission specialist; Claude Nicollier, mission specialist representing the European Space Agency (ESA) ; Scott J. Kelly, pilot; Curtis L. Brown, commander; and mission specialists Jean-Francois Clervoy (ESA), John M. Grunsfeld, and Steven L. Smith. Launched aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery on December 19, 1999 at 6:50 p.m. (CST), the STS-103 mission served as the third Hubble Space Telescope (HST) servicing mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., the 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish is lowered toward the top of the support structure. It will be placed on the counterweights installed there. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., part of the structure for the support base for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna is put in position.The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., the second counterweight (right side) is lifted into place on the support structure for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., one of two counterweights is being lifted for installation on a support structure (right) for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On June 8, the base for a C-band radar antenna is being constructed at a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla. The 50-foot C-band radar will be used for long-term Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission, STS-114, is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, workers are installing the Orbital Boom Sensor System (foreground) in Atlantis’ payload bay. The 50-foot-long OBSS attaches to the Remote Manipulator System (background), or Shuttle robotic arm, and is one of the new safety measures for Return to Flight. It equips the orbiter with cameras and laser systems to inspect the Shuttle’s Thermal Protection System while in space. Mission STS-121 is targeted for launch in July.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers start securing an upper section of the support base for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna being erected on a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

S95-16439 (13-22 July 1995) --- An overall view from the rear shows activity in the new Mission Control Center (MCC), opened for operation and dedicated during the STS-70 mission. The new MCC, developed at a cost of about 50 million, replaces the main-frame based, NASA-unique design of the old Mission Control with a standard workstation-based, local area network system commonly in use today.

Workers add to the Astronaut Memorial Mirror the names of the Columbia crew who died in the STS-107 accident. Dedicated May 9, 1991, the Astronaut Memorial honors U.S. astronauts who gave their lives for space exploration. The "Space Mirror," 42 1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument's black granite surface. The Memorial Mirror is accessible through the KSC Visitor Complex.

S114-E-6063 (30 July 2005) --- Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, STS-114 mission specialist representing Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), participates in the mission’s first scheduled session of extravehicular activity (EVA). Noguchi and crewmate Stephen K. Robinson (out of frame) completed a demonstration of Shuttle thermal protection repair techniques and enhancements to the International Space Station’s attitude control system during the successful 6-hour, 50-minute spacewalk.

S114-E-6054 (30 July 2005) --- Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, STS-114 mission specialist representing Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), participates in the mission’s first scheduled session of extravehicular activity (EVA). Noguchi and crewmate Stephen K. Robinson (out of frame) completed a demonstration of Shuttle thermal protection repair techniques and enhancements to the International Space Station’s attitude control system during the successful 6-hour, 50-minute spacewalk.

S100-E-5351 (23 April 2001) --- The Raffaello logistics module is backdropped over clouds and water on Earth. Endeavour’s 50-foot robotic arm, operated by astronaut Jeffrey S. Ashby, STS-100 pilot, had earlier grappled the logistics module in the shuttle's cargo bay and docked it to the Unity module. The Expedition Two crew was scheduled to begin the following day transferring food, supplies, equipment and two experiment racks for installation in Destiny from Raffaello to the station. The image was recorded with a digital still camera.

S114-E-6062 (30 July 2005) --- Astronaut Soichi Noguchi, STS-114 mission specialist representing Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), participates in the mission’s first scheduled session of extravehicular activity (EVA). Noguchi and crewmate Stephen K. Robinson (out of frame) completed a demonstration of Shuttle thermal protection repair techniques and enhancements to the International Space Station’s attitude control system during the successful 6-hour, 50-minute spacewalk.

Former NASA Astronaut Steve Lindsey gives remarks at an event celebrating John Glenn's legacy and 50 years of americans in orbit held at the Cleveland State University Wolstein Center on Friday, March 3, 2012 in Cleveland, Ohio. In 1998 Lindsey flew onboard the space shuttle Discovery along with then 77 year-old Sen. John Glenn for the STS-95 mission. Glenn became the first American to orbit Earth in 1962. Photo Credit: (NASA/Bill Ingalls)

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., the 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish is lifted off the ground. It will be placed onto the top of a support structure.The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

Malic Enzyme is a target protein for drug design because it is a key protein in the life cycle of intestinal parasites. After 2 years of effort on Earth, investigators were unable to produce any crystals that were of high enough quality and for this reason the structure of this important protein could not be determined. Crystals obtained from one STS-50 were of superior quality allowing the structure to be determined. This is just one example why access to space is so vital for these studies. Principal Investigator is Larry DeLucas.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., the 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish is lowered toward the top of the support structure. It will be placed on the counterweights installed there. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers secure an upper section of the support base for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna being erected on a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A view from inside bay three of the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) shows the Space Shuttle Discovery washed in white xenon light as it makes a nighttime departure from the VAB on its way to pad 39B. Discovery will fly for mission STS-26 now scheduled for launch in earlly September with its five-man crew and the TDRS-C payload. First motion in the Shuttle's move from the VAB toward the pad came at 12:50 a.m. July 4, 1988.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., the second counterweight is being lifted for installation on the support structure (right) for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., one of two counterweights is being lifted for installation on a support structure (right) for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

ISS013-E-81234 (17 Sept. 2006) --- The Space Shuttle Atlantis, backdropped against clouds over Earth, is pictured after it undocked from the International Space Station at 7:50 a.m. CDT, Sept. 17, 2006. The STS-115 astronauts completed six days, two hours and two minutes of joint operations with the station crew.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers secure an upper section of the support base for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna being erected on a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

STS059-50-003 (9-20 April 1994) --- This 35mm night image of the New York City metropolitan area was captured by the crew of the STS-59 crew during the Space Radar Laboratory (SRL) mission. Scientists studying film from the Space Shuttle Endeavour feel this is the best nocturnal view of this region from the manned space program.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Work is underway on a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., constructing the support base for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., part of the structure to be added to the support base for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna is moved closer to the base. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Atlantis’ payload bay doors are partially opened. The 50-foot-long OBSS attaches to the Remote Manipulator System, or Shuttle arm, and is one of the new safety measures for Return to Flight. It equips the orbiter with cameras and laser systems to inspect the Shuttle’s Thermal Protection System while in space. Mission STS-121 is targeted for launch in September. Once Atlantis' bay doors are open again, further work will be done in the bay.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., the 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish is prepared to be lifted onto the top of a support structure. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., the 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish is lowered toward the top of the support structure. It will be placed on the counterweights installed there. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - On a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., a crane lifts part of the structure to be added to the support base for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At a radar site on North Merritt Island, Fla., the second counterweight (left side) is moved into place on the support structure for a 50-foot C-band radar antenna dish. The radar will be used for Shuttle missions to track the launches and observe possible debris coming from the Shuttle. It will be used for the first time on STS-114. The launch window for the first Return to Flight mission is July 13 to July 31.

Horse Serum Albumin crystals grown during the USML-1 (STS-50) mission's Protein Crystal Growth Glovebox Experiment. These crystals were grown using a vapor diffusion technique at 22 degrees C. The crystals were allowed to grow for nine days while in orbit. Crystals of 1.0 mm in length were produced. The most abundant blood serum protein, regulates blood pressure and transports ions, metabolites, and therapeutic drugs. Principal Investigator was Edward Meehan.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, workers are installing the Orbital Boom Sensor System (foreground) in Atlantis’ payload bay. The 50-foot-long OBSS attaches to the Remote Manipulator System (background), or Shuttle robotic arm, and is one of the new safety measures for Return to Flight. It equips the orbiter with cameras and laser systems to inspect the Shuttle’s Thermal Protection System while in space. Mission STS-121 is targeted for launch in July.

The STS-36 mission launch aboard the Space Shuttle Orbiter Atlantis on February 28, 1990 at 2:50:22am (EST). The crew featured five astronauts who served in the 6th Department of Defense (DOD) mission: John H. Creighton, commander; John H. Caster, pilot; and mission specialists Pierre J. Thuot, Richard M. (Mike) Mullane, and David. C. Hilmers.

STS103-S-005 (19 December 1999) --- The Space Shuttle Discovery rises into the clear night sky to begin the 96th mission in the STS program. Liftoff occurred at 7:50 p.m. (EST), December 19, 1999, from Launch Pad 39B. Onboard were astronauts Curtis L. Brown, Jr., Scott J. Kelly, Steven L. Smith, C. Michael Foale, John M. Grunsfeld, Claude Nicollier and Jean-Francois Clervoy. Switzerland's Nicollier and France's Clervoy represent the European Space Agency (ESA).

ISS013-E-81204 (17 Sept. 2006) --- The Space Shuttle Atlantis, backdropped against the blackness of space, is pictured after it undocked from the International Space Station at 7:50 a.m. CDT, Sept. 17, 2006. The STS-115 astronauts completed six days, two hours and two minutes of joint operations with the station crew.

Workers add to the Astronaut Memorial Mirror the names of the Columbia crew who died in the STS-107 accident. Dedicated May 9, 1991, the Astronaut Memorial honors U.S. astronauts who gave their lives for space exploration. The "Space Mirror," 42 1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument's black granite surface. The Memorial Mirror is accessible through the KSC Visitor Complex.

Workers add to the Astronaut Memorial Mirror the names of the Columbia crew who died in the STS-107 accident. Dedicated May 9, 1991, the Astronaut Memorial honors U.S. astronauts who gave their lives for space exploration. The "Space Mirror," 42 1/2 feet high by 50 feet wide, illuminates the names of the fallen astronauts cut through the monument's black granite surface. The Memorial Mirror is accessible through the KSC Visitor Complex.

ISS013-E-81251 (17 Sept. 2006) --- The Space Shuttle Atlantis, backdropped over a colorful Earth, is pictured after it undocked from the International Space Station at 7:50 a.m. (CDT), Sept. 17, 2006. The STS-115 astronauts completed six days, two hours and two minutes of joint operations with the station crew.