
In the Space Station Processing Facility, astronaut Takao Doi (left) and Commander Dominic Gorie pose in front of the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section for the Japanese Experiment Module, or JEM, that recently arrived at Kennedy. Doi and Gorie are crew members for mission STS-123 that will deliver the logistics module to the International Space Station. Earlier, NASA and Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency (JAXA) officials welcomed the arrival of the module. The new International Space Station component arrived at Kennedy March 12 to begin preparations for its future launch on mission STS-123. It will serve as an on-orbit storage area for materials, tools and supplies. It can hold up to eight experiment racks and will attach to the top of another larger pressurized module.

In the Space Station Processing Facility, astronaut Takao Doi (left) and Commander Dominic Gorie pose in front of the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section for the Japanese Experiment Module, or JEM, that recently arrived at Kennedy. Doi and Gorie are crew members for mission STS-123 that will deliver the logistics module to the International Space Station. Earlier, NASA and Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency (JAXA) officials welcomed the arrival of the module. The new International Space Station component arrived at Kennedy March 12 to begin preparations for its future launch on mission STS-123. It will serve as an on-orbit storage area for materials, tools and supplies. It can hold up to eight experiment racks and will attach to the top of another larger pressurized module.

JOHNSON SPACE CENTER, HOUSTON -- S97-12563-- Astronaut Takao Doi, representing Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

S97-12563 (5 Aug. 1997) --- Astronaut Takao Doi, mission specialist representing Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

STS087-375-009 (19 November – 5 December 1997) --- Astronaut Takao Doi, mission specialist, during one of two extravehicular activities (EVA) in the cargo bay of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia, waves at fellow crewmembers in Columbia’s cabin. Takao Doi, an international astronaut stationed at Johnson Space Center (JSC), represents Japan's National Space Development Agency (NASDA). This view was taken with a 35mm camera.

STS087-317-033 (19 November – 5 December 1997) --- Astronaut Takao Doi, mission specialist, prepares for one of two extravehicular activities (EVA) in the Airlock Module of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia. Takao Doi, an international astronaut stationed at Johnson Space Center (JSC), represents Japan's National Space Development Agency (NASDA). This view was taken with a 35mm camera.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - From left, the Consul General of Japan Ko Kodaira, his daughter Reiko, astronaut Dr. Takao Doi, and Kodaira's wife Marie pause for a photograph in the Space Station Processing Facility during their visit to Kennedy Space Center (KSC). Doi represented Japan on Space Shuttle mission STS-87, the fourth U.S Microgravity Payload flight. Kodaira is touring the facilities at KSC at the invitation of the local office of the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA) to acquaint him with KSC's unique processing capabilities.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Takao Doi, an astronaut with the National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), watches the sensors during a Multi-Equipment Interface Test (MEIT) on the Japanese Experiment Module (JEM). NASDA developed the laboratory at the Tsukuba Space Center near Tokyo. It is the first element, named "Kibo" (Hope), to be delivered to KSC. The JEM is Japan's primary contribution to the Station. It will enhance the unique research capabilities of the orbiting complex by providing an additional environment for astronauts to conduct science experiments.

STS087-341-004 (3 Dec. 1997) --- Backdropped over Africa, Takao Doi, international mission specialist representing Japan’s National Space Development Agency (NASDA), works with a crane device during a second extravehicular activity (EVA) designed to help evaluate techniques and hardware to be used in constructing the International Space Station (ISS). Takao Doi and astronaut Winston E. Scott (out of frame) were involved in the mission's second EVA in the cargo bay of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia. Takao Doi is working with a 156-pound crane designed to aid spacewalkers in transporting Orbital Replacement Units (ORU) from translation carts on the exterior of the ISS to various worksites on the truss structure. The view of Earth below features an inland delta in Mali (frame center). This view is from the east toward the west and was taken with a 35mm camera.

S123-E-007123 (18 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi (top right), NASA astronauts Robert L. Behnken (top left) and Mike Foreman, all STS-123 mission specialists, are pictured on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

S123-E-005634 (13 March 2008) --- NASA astronaut Dominic Gorie (right), STS-123 commander; and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, mission specialist, are pictured on the flight deck of Space Shuttle Endeavour during flight day three activities.

S123-E-006512 (13 March 2008) --- NASA astronaut Dominic Gorie (right), STS-123 commander, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, mission specialist, look over checklists on the flight deck of Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

STS087-308-023 (19 November – 5 December 1997) --- Astronaut Kalpana Chawla, mission specialist, monitors the Extravehicular Activity (EVA) of fellow astronauts Winston E. Scott and Takao Doi from her temporary station on the Space Shuttle Columbia’s aft flight deck. Chawla controlled Columbia's Remote Manipulator System (RMS) at this station. Chawla (from her in-cabin post), Doi and Scott shared duties in two separate sessions of EVA during the 16-day United States Microgravity Payload (USMP) mission.

STS-87 Mission Specialist Takao Doi , Ph.D., of the National Space Development Agency of Japan, participates in the Crew Equipment Integration Test (CEIT) at Kennedy Space Center (KSC). Glenda Laws, the extravehicular activity (EVA) coordinator, Johnson Space Center, stands behind Dr. Doi. The CEIT gives astronauts an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the payloads with which they will be working on-orbit. STS-87 will be the fourth United States Microgravity Payload and flight of the Spartan-201 deployable satellite. During the mission, Dr. Doi will be the first Japanese astronaut to perform a spacewalk. STS-87 is scheduled for a Nov. 19 liftoff from KSC

STS-87 Mission Specialist Takao Doi , Ph.D., of the National Space Development Agency of Japan, participates in the Crew Equipment Integration Test (CEIT) in Kennedy Space Center’s (KSC's) Vertical Processing Facility. Glenda Laws, the extravehicular activity (EVA) coordinator, Johnson Space Center, stands behind Dr. Doi. The CEIT gives astronauts an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the payloads with which they will be working on-orbit. STS-87 will be the fourth United States Microgravity Payload and flight of the Spartan-201 deployable satellite. During the mission, Dr. Doi will be the first Japanese astronaut to perform a spacewalk. STS-87 is scheduled for a Nov. 19 liftoff from KSC

S123-E-009791 (24 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, floats through a hatch on Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

S123-E-008339 (21 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, holds a still camera in the Pirs Docking Compartment of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Endeavour is docked with the station.

S123-E-005979 (14 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, works on the flight deck of Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

S123-E-005126 (11 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, prepares a meal at the galley on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour late in flight day one activities.

S123-E-006371 (15 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, prepares to eat a meal at the galley on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

ISS016-E-033291 (22 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, uses a computer in the Harmony node of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Endeavour is docked with the station.

ISS016-E-033294 (22 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, floats in the Harmony node of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Endeavour is docked with the station.

S123-E-007037 (18 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, works in the Harmony node of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Endeavour is docked with the station.

S123-E-008815 (23 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, looks over a checklist on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

S123-E-007808 (20 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, is pictured near the galley on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

S123-E-007674 (19 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, watches a bubble float freely, after having squeezed it from his beverage container, on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

S123-E-006703 (16 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, exercises on a bicycle ergometer on the middeck of the Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

S123-E-006367 (15 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialists, looks over his choices of beverages and snacks at the galley on the middeck of Space Shuttle Endeavour while docked with the International Space Station.

STS-87 astronaut crew members participate in the Crew Equipment Integration Test (CEIT) in Kennedy Space Center’s (KSC's) Vertical Processing Facility. From left are Mission Specialist Kalpana Chawla, Ph.D.; Pilot Steven Lindsey; Mission Specialist Takao Doi , Ph.D., of the National Space Development Agency of Japan; and Mission Specialist Winston Scott. The CEIT gives astronauts an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the payloads with which they will be working onorbit. STS-87 will be the fourth United States Microgravity Payload and flight of the Spartan-201 deployable satellite. During the STS-87 mission, scheduled for a Nov. 19 liftoff from KSC, Dr. Doi and Scott will both perform spacewalks

STS087-320-025 (19 November – 5 December 1997) --- Astronauts Winston E. Scott (left) and Takao Doi (partially obscured by his location in the dark shadows), await the right opportunity to grab onto the Spartan satellite. Later, when the Space Shuttle Columbia had moved closer to Spartan, the two mission specialists were able to successfully grab the satellite manually and berth it in Columbia's cargo bay. The end effector of Columbia's Remote Manipulator System (RMS), with its video camera recording the activities, is in the upper right corner. Winston E. Scott was making his second space flight and his second extravehicular activity (EVA). Takao Doi, an international mission specialist stationed at the Johnson Space Center (JSC), represents the Japan’s National Space Development Agency (NASDA).

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- After a welcoming ceremony for the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section of the Japanese Experiment Module, astronaut Takao Doi (right) talks with Kumiko Tanabe, a public affairs representative of the Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency. The logistics module will be delivered to the space station on mission STS-123. Doi is a crew member on that mission.The module will serve as an on-orbit storage area for materials, tools and supplies. It can hold up to eight experiment racks and will attach to the top of another larger pressurized module. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

Participating in the Crew Equipment Integration Test (CEIT) at Kennedy Space Center are STS-87 crew members Winston Scott, at left, and Takao Doi, Ph.D., of the National Space Development Agency of Japan, both mission specialists on STS-87. The CEIT gives astronauts an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the payloads with which they will be working on-orbit. STS-87 will be the fourth United States Microgravity Payload and flight of the Spartan-201 deployable satellite. During the STS-87 mission, scheduled for a Nov. 19 liftoff from KSC, Dr. Doi and Scott will both perform spacewalks. STS-87 is scheduled for a Nov. 19 liftoff from KSC

S123-E-006323 (15 March 2008) --- A high angle view shows astronaut Peggy Whitson, Expedition 16 commander, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, as they work aboard the Node 2, Harmony, on the International Space Station. Nine astronauts and one cosmonaut will spend over a week joining forces to perform a variety of chores on the orbital outpost.

STS087-338-003 (19 November - 5 December 1997) --- Astronaut Kalpana Chawla, mission specialist, aims a 70mm camera through the Space Shuttle Columbia's overhead window. Crew members used the camera for the ongoing Earth observations project but they used it as well to document operations with the Spartan-201 satellite and the two Extravehicular Activities (EVA) performed by astronauts Winston E. Scott and Takao Doi.

STS087-317-036 (19 November – 5 December 1997) --- Astronaut Winston E. Scott, mission specialist, goes through final touches of space suit donning in preparation for one of two extravehicular activities (EVA) he performed in and around the cargo bay of the Space Shuttle Columbia. Scott was joined by astronaut Takao Doi, an international mission specialist representing Japan's National Space Development Agency (NASDA), on both EVAs.

STS087-307-002 (19 November - 5 December 1997) --- On the Space Shuttle Columbia's middeck, the crewmembers for the mission pose for the traditional in-flight portrait. In front, left to right, are astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, pilot; Takao Doi, mission specialist representing Japan's National Space Development Agency (NASDA); and Winston E. Scott, mission specialist. In back are, from the left, astronauts Kevin R. Kregel, commander; and Kalpana Chawla, mission specialist; along with payload specialist Leonid Kadenyuk.

S123-E-007352 (19 March 2008) --- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, STS-123 mission specialist, floats in the newly installed Japanese Logistics Module - Pressurized Section (JLP) of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Endeavour is docked with the station. The JLP is the first pressurized component of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the newest component of the station.

STS-87 astronaut crew members participate in the Crew Equipment Integration Test (CEIT) with the Spartan-201 payload in Kennedy Space Center’s (KSC's) Vertical Processing Facility. From left are Pilot Steven Lindsey; Mission Specialist Takao Doi, Ph.D., of the National Space Development Agency of Japan; Mission Specialist Kalpana Chawla, Ph.D.; Commander Kevin Kregel; and Payload Specialist Leonid Kadenyuk of the National Space Agency of Ukraine. The CEIT gives astronauts an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the payloads with which they will be working on-orbit. STS-87 will be the fourth United States Microgravity Payload and flight of the Spartan-201 deployable satellite. During the mission, Dr. Doi will be the first Japanese astronaut to perform a spacewalk. STS-87 is scheduled for a Nov. 19 liftoff from KSC

STS087-385-019 (19 November - 5 December 1997) --- Astronaut Winston E. Scott, mission specialist on right, works at the mid-deck glove box while astronaut Takao Doi, international mission specialist representing Japan's National Space Development Agency (NASDA), makes oral commentary regarding the experiment to ground controllers. The two mission specialists not only shared science research in support of the 16-day United States Microgravity Payload (USMP-4) mission, but they also shared two lengthy Extravehicular Activities (EVA) in and around the cargo bay of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia. The space walks marked the first EVA for both Doi and the Columbia, but the mission for Scott provided both his second EVA experience and second space flight.

STS087-341-036 (3 Dec. 1997) --- Backdropped against a dark Earth and a light blue horizon, astronaut Takao Doi (right), international mission specialist representing Japan's National Space Development Agency (NASDA), works with a crane while astronaut Winston E. Scott looks on. This second extravehicular activity (EVA) of the mission continued the evaluation of techniques and hardware to be used in constructing the International Space Station (ISS). Near Scott can be seen the representation of a small Orbital Replacement Unit (ORU) in the grasp of the 156-pound crane operated by Doi. A similar crane could be used to transport various sized ORU’s from translation carts on the exterior of the ISS to various worksites on the truss structure. This view was captured, on 35mm film, by a crew mate in the shirt sleeve environment of the Space Shuttle Columbia's cabin. The SPARTAN-201 satellite is in its stowed position at frame center.

STS-87 astronaut crew members prepare to fly back to Johnson Space Center in Houston after participating in the Crew Equipment Integration Test (CEIT) at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in early October. From left are Payload Specialist Leonid Kadenyuk of the National Space Agency of Ukraine; Mission Specialist Takao Doi, Ph.D., of the National Space Development Agency of Japan; Mission Specialist Winston Scott; Commander Kevin Kregel; Pilot Steven Lindsey; and Mission Specialist Kalpana Chawla, Ph.D. The CEIT gives astronauts an opportunity to get a hands-on look at the payloads with which they will be working on-orbit. STS-87 will be the fourth United States Microgravity Payload and flight of the Spartan-201 deployable satellite. During the STS-87 mission, scheduled for a Nov. 19 liftoff from KSC, Dr. Doi and Scott will both perform spacewalks

JOHNSON SPACE CENTER, HOUSTON -- STS123-S-002-- These seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-123 crew portrait. From the right (front row) are astronauts Dominic L. Gorie, commander, and Gregory H. Johnson, pilot. From the left (back row) are astronauts Richard M. Linnehan, Robert L. Benken, Garrett E. Reisman, Michael J. Foreman and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Takao Doi, all mission specialists. Reisman is scheduled to join Expedition 16 as flight engineer after launching to the International Space Station on mission STS-123. The crewmembers are attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits.

ISS016-E-033709 (24 March 2008) --- The STS-123 crew used part of its last full day onboard the International Space Station posing for some in-space crew portraits. These six astronauts launched aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on March 11 and are scheduled to return aboard it on March 26. The crewmembers include astronauts Dominic Gorie (top center), commander; Gregory H. Johnson (bottom center), pilot; along with astronauts Rick Linnehan (top left), Mike Foreman (top right), Robert L. Behnken (bottom left) and JAXA's Takao Doi (bottom right), all mission specialists.

S123-E-007259 (19 March 2008) --- The STS-123 and Expedition 16 crewmembers share a meal near the galley in the Zvezda Service Module of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Endeavour is docked with the station. Pictured (from the left) are European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Leopold Eyharts, STS-123 mission specialist; NASA astronauts Dominic Gorie, STS-123 commander; Gregory H. Johnson (partially obscured), STS-123 pilot; Robert L. Behnken and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, both STS-123 mission specialists.

STS123-S-002 (26 July 2007) --- These seven astronauts take a break from training to pose for the STS-123 crew portrait. From the right (front row) are astronauts Dominic L. Gorie, commander; and Gregory H. Johnson, pilot. From the left (back row) are astronauts Richard M. Linnehan, Robert L. Behnken, Garrett E. Reisman, Michael J. Foreman and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's (JAXA) Takao Doi, all mission specialists. Reisman is scheduled to join Expedition 16 as flight engineer after launching to the International Space Station on mission STS-123. The crewmembers are attired in training versions of their shuttle launch and entry suits.

S123-E-007231 (19 March 2008) --- The STS-123 and Expedition 16 crewmembers share a meal near the galley in the Zvezda Service Module of the International Space Station while Space Shuttle Endeavour is docked with the station. Pictured (from the left) are European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut Leopold Eyharts, STS-123 mission specialist; NASA astronauts Dominic Gorie, STS-123 commander; Gregory H. Johnson, STS-123 pilot; Robert L. Behnken and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) astronaut Takao Doi, both STS-123 mission specialists.

Five astronauts and a payload specialist take a break from training at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) to pose for the STS-87 crew portrait. Wearing the orange partial pressure launch and entry suits, from the left, are Kalpana Chawla, mission specialist; Steven W. Lindsey, pilot; Kevin R. Kregel, mission commander; and Leonid K. Kadenyuk, Ukrainian payload specialist. Wearing the white Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) space suits are mission specialists Winston E. Scott (left) and Takao Doi (right). Doi represents Japan’s National Space Development Agency (NASDA). The STS-87 mission launched aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia on November 19, 1997. The primary payload for the mission was the U.S. Microgravity Payload-4 (USMP-4).

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. --- STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi talks to the media about his experiences on the mission to the International Space Station. Doi represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The crew landed at Kennedy aboard space shuttle Endeavour at 8:39 p.m. EDT March 26. Endeavour's 16-day flight was the longest shuttle mission to the International Space Station and included a record five spacewalks. The shuttle's seven astronauts worked with the three-member station crew and ground teams around the world to install the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, known as Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi tries on his helmet during suitup for the launch dress rehearsal, culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Doi represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Space shuttle Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, astronaut Takao Doi (left) and Commander Dominic Gorie pose in front of the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section for the Japanese Experiment Module, or JEM, that recently arrived at Kennedy. Doi and Gorie are crew members for mission STS-123 that will deliver the logistics module to the International Space Station. Earlier, NASA and Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency (JAXA) officials welcomed the arrival of the module. The new International Space Station component arrived at Kennedy March 12 to begin preparations for its future launch on mission STS-123. It will serve as an on-orbit storage area for materials, tools and supplies. It can hold up to eight experiment racks and will attach to the top of another larger pressurized module. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi looks over the payload in space shuttle Endeavour's payload bay. Doi represents the Japan Aerospace and Exploration Agency, or JAXA. He and other STS-123 crew members are at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi is helped with his boots during suitup for the launch dress rehearsal, culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Doi represents the Japan Aerospace and Exploration Agency, or JAXA. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Space shuttle Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At the NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi waits in the aircraft that will return him to Houston. He and the other STS-123 crew members took part in a terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT, in preparation for the launch of space shuttle Endeavour scheduled on March 11. Doi represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The TCDT enables astronauts and ground crews to participate in various countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. On the STS-123 mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi suits up for the launch dress rehearsal, culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. Doi represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Space shuttle Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, astronaut Takao Doi (left) and Commander Dominic Gorie pose in front of the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section for the Japanese Experiment Module, or JEM, that recently arrived at Kennedy. Doi and Gorie are crew members for mission STS-123 that will deliver the logistics module to the International Space Station. Earlier, NASA and Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency (JAXA) officials welcomed the arrival of the module. The new International Space Station component arrived at Kennedy March 12 to begin preparations for its future launch on mission STS-123. It will serve as an on-orbit storage area for materials, tools and supplies. It can hold up to eight experiment racks and will attach to the top of another larger pressurized module. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

ISS016-E-033689 (24 March 2008) --- The STS-123 crew used part of its last full day onboard the International Space Station posing for some in-space crew portraits. These six astronauts launched aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on March 11 and are scheduled to return aboard it on March 26. Clockwise from the lower right corner are astronauts Dominic Gorie, commander; Robert L. Behnken and Rick Linnehan, both mission specialists; Gregory H. Johnson, pilot; and Mike Foreman and JAXA's Takao Doi, both mission specialists.

STS087-307-006 (19 November – 5 December 1997) --- One of the crew members' traditional in-flight crew portraits has them posed in other-than traditional attire on the Space Shuttle Columbia's mid-deck. On the front row, from the left, are astronauts Steven W. Lindsey, pilot; Takao Doi, an international mission specialist representing Japan's National Space Development Agency (NASDA); and Winston E. Scott, mission specialist. In the back are astronauts Kevin R. Kregel, mission commander; and Kalpana Chawla, mission specialist, along with Ukrainian payload specialist Leonid K. Kadenyuk.

ISS016-E-033691 (24 March 2008) --- The STS-123 crew used part of its last full day onboard the International Space Station posing for some in-space crew portraits. These six astronauts launched aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour on March 11 and are scheduled to return aboard it on March 26. Clockwise from the lower right corner are astronauts Dominic Gorie, commander; Robert L. Behnken and Rick Linnehan, both mission specialists; Gregory H. Johnson, pilot; and Mike Foreman and JAXA's Takao Doi, both mission specialists.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility, STS-123 crew members inspect the wheel well on the underside of space shuttle Endeavour. From left front are astronaut Garrett Reisman, Mission Specialists Takao Doi, Michael Foreman and Richard Linnehan, Commander Dominic Gorie, Pilot Gregory Johnson and Mission Specialist Robert Behnken. They are at NASA's Kennedy Space Center for a crew equipment interface test, a process of familiarization with payloads, hardware and the space shuttle. The STS-123 mission is targeted for launch on space shuttle Endeavour on Feb. 14. It will be the 25th assembly flight of the station. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, journalists and photographers ask Japanese astronaut Takao Doi about the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section for the Japanese Experiment Module, or JEM, that he will accompany on mission STS-123 to the International Space Station. Earlier, NASA and Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency (JAXA) officials welcomed the arrival of the logistics module. The logistics module will serve as an on-orbit storage area for materials, tools and supplies. It can hold up to eight experiment racks and will attach to the top of another larger pressurized module. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

ISS016-E-033684 (24 March 2008) --- (NOTE: Picture should be rotated 180 degrees to match the identifications). The STS-123 crew used part of its last full day onboard the International Space Station posing for some in-space crew portraits. This grouping shows members of the crews for both the Space Shuttle Endeavour and Expedition 16. The Expedition 16 crew (wearing olive shirts) are astronaut Peggy Whitson (second right, rear), commander; Federal Space Agency cosmonaut Yuri Malenchenko (left, front), flight engineer; and astronaut Garrett Reisman (left rear), flight engineer. Also in a green shirt is European Space Agency astronaut Leopold Eyharts (right rear), former Expedition 16 flight engineer, who has moved over to the STS-123 crew. Soon to be leaving the station at this juncture along with Eyharts are the blue-clad Endeavour crew of astronauts Dominic Gorie (second left, rear), commander; Gregory H. Johnson (behind Malenchenko), pilot; and JAXA astronaut Takao Doi (right front), Rick Linnehan (behind Doi); Mike Foreman (second right, center row); Robert L. Behnken (far left, center row) all mission specialists.

STS087-718-069 (19 November ? 5 December 1997) --- On the Space Shuttle Columbia's first ever spacewalk (EVA), astronaut Takao Doi works with a 156-pound crane carried onboard for the first time this trip of Columbia. The crane's inclusion and the work with it are part of a continuing preparation effort for future work on the International Space Station (ISS). The ongoing project allows for evaluation of tools and operating methods to be applied to the construction of the Space Station. This crane device is designed to aid future spacewalkers in transporting Orbital Replacement Units (ORU), with a mass up to 600 pounds (like the simulated battery pictured here), from translating carts on the exterior of ISS to various worksites on the truss structure. Earlier Doi, an international mission specialist representing Japan, and astronaut Winston E. Scott had installed the crane in a socket along the middle port side of Columbia's cargo bay for the evaluation. The two began the crane operations, long ago manifest for this mission, after completing a contingency spacewalk to snag the free-flying Spartan 201 and berth it in the payload bay (visible in the background).

STS087-330-009 (19 November – 5 December 1997) --- Astronauts Takao Doi (left) and Steven W. Lindsey check out the Enclosed Laminar Flames (ELF) experiment on the mid-deck of the Earth-orbiting Space Shuttle Columbia. ELF has been designed to examine the effect of different air flow velocities on the stability of laminar (non-turbulent) flames. Enclosed laminar flames are commonly found in combustion systems such as power plant and gas turbine combustors, and jet engine afterburners. It is hoped that results of this investigation may help to optimize the performance of industrial combustors, including pollutant emissions and heat transfer. The microgravity environment of space makes a perfect setting for a laboratory involving combustion, an activity that creates convection in normal gravity. In microgravity, scientists can study subtle processes ordinarily masked by the effects of gravity. Doi is an international mission specialist representing Japan's National Space Development Agency (NASDA) and Lindsey is the pilot. Both are alumni of NASA's 1995 class of Astronaut Candidates (ASCAN).

Onboard Space Shuttle Columbia's (STS-87) first ever Extravehicular Activity (EVA), astronaut Takao Doi works with a 156-pound crane carried onboard for the first time. The crane's inclusion and the work with it are part of a continuing preparation effort for future work on the International Space Station (ISS). The ongoing project allows for evaluation of tools and operating methods to be applied to the construction of the Space Station. This crane device is designed to aid future space walkers in transporting Orbital Replacement Units (ORU), with a mass up to 600 pounds (like the simulated battery pictured here), from translating carts on the exterior of ISS to various worksites on the truss structure. Earlier Doi, an international mission specialist representing Japan, and astronaut Winston E. Scott, mission specialist, had installed the crane in a socket along the middle port side of Columbia's cargo bay for the evaluation. The two began the crane operations after completing a contingency EVA to snag the free-flying Spartan 201 and berth it in the payload bay (visible in the background).

Onboard Space Shuttle Columbia's (STS-87) first ever Extravehicular Activity (EVA), astronaut Takao Doi works with a 156-pound crane carried onboard for the first time. The crane's inclusion and the work with it are part of a continuing preparation effort for future work on the International Space Station (ISS). The ongoing project allows for evaluation of tools and operating methods to be applied to the construction of the Space Station. This crane device is designed to aid future space walkers in transporting Orbital Replacement Units (ORU), with a mass up to 600 pounds (like the simulated battery pictured here), from translating carts on the exterior of ISS to various worksites on the truss structure. Earlier Doi, an international mission specialist representing Japan, and astronaut Winston E. Scott, mission specialist, had installed the crane in a socket along the middle port side of Columbia's cargo bay for the evaluation. The two began the crane operations after completing a contingency EVA to snag the free-flying Spartan 201 and berth it in the payload bay (visible in the background).

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. --- Space shuttle Endeavour crew members meet with the media to discuss their experiences on the STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. From left are Commander Dominic Gorie, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, and Mission Specialists Robert L. Behnken, Mike Foreman, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Takao Doi and Rick Linnehan. They landed at Kennedy at 8:39 p.m. EDT March 26. Endeavour's 16-day flight was the longest shuttle mission to the International Space Station and included a record five spacewalks. The shuttle's seven astronauts worked with the three-member station crew and ground teams around the world to install the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, known as Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. --- Space shuttle Endeavour crew members meet with the media to discuss their experiences on the STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. From left are Commander Dominic Gorie, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, and Mission Specialists Robert L. Behnken, Mike Foreman, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Takao Doi and Rick Linnehan. They landed at Kennedy at 8:39 p.m. EDT March 26. Endeavour's 16-day flight was the longest shuttle mission to the International Space Station and included a record five spacewalks. The shuttle's seven astronauts worked with the three-member station crew and ground teams around the world to install the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, known as Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

STS087-371-013 (19 November - 5 December 1997) --- On the Space Shuttle Columbia's mid-deck, astronaut Steven W. Lindsey proves that the Autonomous Extravehicular Activity Robotic Camera/Sprint (AERCam/Sprint) experiment is in fact bigger than a soccer ball, to which it is often erroneously compared for dimensional frame of reference, as he allows the Sprint to float near him. The AERCam is a prototype free-flying television camera that could be used for remote inspections of the exterior of the International Space Station (ISS). Later, astronauts Winston E. Scott and Takao Doi took the experiment outside for a brief test during the mission's second Extravehicular Activity (EVA). Lindsey, pilot, is standing with his back to the galley and his left hand on the microgravity glovebox, used extensively during the mission to support the United States Microgravity Payload (USMP-4) mission.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- (From top) STS-123 Mission Specialists Mike Foreman, Takao Doi and Garrett Reisman are in their seats in space shuttle Endeavour to participate in a simulated launch countdown. The countdown is the culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Endeavour is targeted to launch at 2:28 a.m. EDT March 11 on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Emergency egress training completed, the STS-123 crew members gather at the slidewire baskets. Clockwise from left are Mission Specialists Mike Foreman, Garrett Reisman and Robert L. Behnken, Commander Dominic Gorie, Mission Specialist Rick Linnehan, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson and Takao Doi. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Endeavour is targeted to launch at 2:28 a.m. EDT March 11 on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, the crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission depart for Kennedy's astronaut quarters. The crew arrived at Kennedy to make final preparations for their launch, set for 2:28 a.m. EDT on March 11. From left are Mission Specialists Garrett Reisman, who will remain on the International Space Station as a flight engineer, and Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency; Pilot Gregory H. Johnson; Commander Dominic Gorie; and Mission Specialists Mike Foreman, Rick Linnehan and Robert L. Behnken. On this mission to the International Space Station, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The crew of mission STS-123 show their readiness to take part in a simulated launch countdown, the culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. From left are Mission Specialists Rick Linnehan, Takao Doi, Robert L. Behnken and Mike Foreman, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman and Commander Dominic Gorie. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Space shuttle Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In NASA Kennedy Space Center's News Room, STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi, of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, shows his enthusiasm for his upcoming flight during an interview. The crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, the crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission receives instruction on the operation of a slidewire basket during emergency egress training. In the basket are Mission Specialists Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Garrett Reisman and Rick Linnehan. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi, who represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, gets help with his launch and entry suit before entering space shuttle Endeavour. He and the other STS-123 crew members are getting ready for the simulated launch countdown, which is the culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Endeavour is targeted to launch at 2:28 a.m. EDT March 11 on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Emergency egress training completed, the STS-123 crew members gather at the slidewire baskets. In front is Mission Specialist Takao Doi, who represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The egress training followed the simulated launch countdown, which was the culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Endeavour is targeted to launch at 2:28 a.m. EDT March 11 on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the Space Station Processing Facility, NASA and Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency (JAXA) officials welcome the arrival of the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section for the Japanese Experiment Module, or JEM, to the Kennedy Space Center. Seen here at right are JAXA representatives, including Japanese astronaut Takao Doi (center of front row), who is a crew member for mission STS-123 that will deliver the module to the space station. The new International Space Station component arrived at Kennedy March 12 to begin preparations for its future launch on mission STS-123. It will serve as an on-orbit storage area for materials, tools and supplies. It can hold up to eight experiment racks and will attach to the top of another larger pressurized module. Photo credit: NASA/George Shelton

In the Space Station Processing Facility, NASA and Japanese Aerospace and Exploration Agency (JAXA) officials welcome the arrival of the Experiment Logistics Module Pressurized Section for the Japanese Experiment Module, or JEM, to the Kennedy Space Center. Seen here at right are JAXA representatives, including Japanese astronaut Takao Doi (center of front row), who is a crew member for mission STS-123 that will deliver the module to the space station. The new International Space Station component arrived at Kennedy March 12 to begin preparations for its future launch on mission STS-123. It will serve as an on-orbit storage area for materials, tools and supplies. It can hold up to eight experiment racks and will attach to the top of another larger pressurized module.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, a mission specialist on space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission, Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, prepares to take questions from the media during a break from emergency egress training. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Gathered again on the top level of the fixed service structure, the STS-123 crew poses for a photo after completing the simulated launch countdown. From left are Mission Specialists Rick Linnehan and Robert L. Behnken, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, Commander Dominic Gorie, and Mission Specialists Mike Foreman, Garrett Reisman and Takao Doi. The countdown was the culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Endeavour is targeted to launch at 2:28 a.m. EDT March 11 on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency receives instruction on the operation of a slidewire basket during emergency egress training. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission pose for a group portrait following their arrival at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. From left are Commander Dominic Gorie; Mission Specialists Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Garrett Reisman and Rick Linnehan; Pilot Gregory H. Johnson; and Mission Specialists Robert L. Behnken and Mike Foreman. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. Endeavour's seven astronauts arrived at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility in their T-38 training aircraft between 10:45 and 10:58 a.m. EST. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

STS087-718-073 (19 November ? 5 December 1997) --- On the Space Shuttle Columbia's first ever spacewalk (EVA), astronaut Winston E. Scott works with a simulated battery and 156-pound crane carried onboard for the first time this trip of Columbia. The crane's inclusion and the work with it are part of a continuing preparation effort for future work on the International Space Station (ISS). The ongoing project allows for evaluation of tools and operating methods to be applied to the construction of the ISS. This crane device is designed to aid future spacewalkers in transporting Orbital Replacement Units (ORU), with a mass up to 600 pounds (like the simulated battery pictured here), from translating carts on the exterior of ISS to various worksites on the truss structure. Earlier, astronauts Takao Doi (at the base of the crane, out of frame at right), an international mission specialist representing Japan, and Winston E. Scott had installed the crane in a socket along the middle port side of Columbia's cargo bay for the evaluation. The two began the crane operations, long ago manifest for this mission, after completing a contingency spacewalk to snag the free-flying Spartan 201 and berth it in the payload bay (visible in the background).

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission head for the bus which will transport them to crew quarters following their arrival at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. From left are Commander Dominic Gorie; Mission Specialists Garrett Reisman and Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency; Pilot Gregory H. Johnson; and Mission Specialists Rick Linnehan and Robert L. Behnken. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. Endeavour's seven astronauts arrived at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility in their T-38 training aircraft between 10:45 and 10:58 a.m. EST. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi, of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, awaits his turn to address the news media on hand for his arrival at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. The crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. Endeavour's seven astronauts arrived at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility in their T-38 training aircraft between 10:45 and 10:58 a.m. EST. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39, STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency takes time out from driving practice of the M-113 armored personnel carrier to pose for a photo. The crew members of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission will each practice driving the M-113 in turn as part of his training on emergency egress procedures. An M-113 will be available to transport the crew to safety in the event of a contingency on the pad before their launch. The STS-123 crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. Endeavour's seven astronauts arrived at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility in their T-38 training aircraft between 10:45 and 10:58 a.m. EST. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, at left, is greeted by Shuttle Launch Director Mike Leinbach following his arrival at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. The crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. Endeavour's seven astronauts arrived at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility in their T-38 training aircraft between 10:45 and 10:58 a.m. EST. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi, of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, addresses the news media on hand for his arrival at NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility. The crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. Endeavour's seven astronauts arrived at Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility in their T-38 training aircraft between 10:45 and 10:58 a.m. EST. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, the crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission receives instruction for emergency egress from the pad. In blue flight suits, from left, are Mission Specialist Mike Foreman; Pilot Gregory H. Johnson; Mission Specialists Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Garrett Reisman and Robert L. Behnken; and Commander Dominic Gorie. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, the crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission walks past an M-113 armored personnel carrier on their way to answer questions from the media. From left, in the front row are Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman and Commander Dominic Gorie. In the middle row are Mission Specialists Mike Foreman and Robert L. Behnken. In the back row are Mission Specialists Rick Linnehan and Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, the crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission takes time out from training activities to pose for a group portrait. From left are Pilot Gregory H. Johnson; Commander Dominic Gorie and Mission Specialists Mike Foreman, Garrett Reisman, Rick Linnehan, Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and Robert L. Behnken. Endeavour is on the pad in the background. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, the crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission takes time out from training activities to pose for a group portrait inside the White Room. From left, top row, are Commander Dominic Gorie and Mission Specialist Mike Foreman, and bottom row, are Mission Specialists Garrett Reisman and Robert L. Behnken, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, and Mission Specialists Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and Rick Linnehan. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the White Room on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, STS-123 Mission Specialist Takao Doi, who represents the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, gets help with his launch and entry suit before entering space shuttle Endeavour. Behind him is Mission Specialist Robert L. Behnken. Both are getting ready for the simulated launch countdown, which is the culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Endeavour is targeted to launch at 2:28 a.m. EDT March 11 on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- The crew of mission STS-123 eagerly leave the Operations and Checkout Building on their way to NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A. In front, from left, are Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman and Commander Dominic Gorie. Behind them, from left, are Mission Specialists Robert L. Behnken, Takao Doi, Mike Foreman and Rick Linnehan. The crew is taking part in a simulated launch countdown, the culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Space shuttle Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, the crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission poses for a group portrait following a question-and-answer session with the media. From left are Commander Dominic Gorie; Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman; Pilot Gregory H. Johnson; and Mission Specialists Robert L. Behnken, Mike Foreman, Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and Rick Linnehan. Endeavour is on the pad in the background. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, the crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission receives instruction for emergency egress from the pad. In blue flight suits, from left, are Mission Specialist Mike Foreman; Pilot Gregory H. Johnson; Mission Specialists Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Garrett Reisman and Robert L. Behnken; and Commander Dominic Gorie. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Before the simulated launch countdown in space shuttle Endeavour, the STS-123 crew gathers near the top of the fixed service structure on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A. Seen from left are Mission Specialists Rick Linnehan and Robert L. Behnken, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, Commander Dominic Gorie and Mission Specialists Mike Foreman, Garrett Reisman and Takao Doi. The countdown is the culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Endeavour is targeted to launch at 2:28 a.m. EDT March 11 on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, the crew of space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission answers questions from the media during a break from emergency egress training. From left are From left are Commander Dominic Gorie; Mission Specialist Garrett Reisman; Pilot Gregory H. Johnson; and Mission Specialists Robert L. Behnken, Mike Foreman, Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and Rick Linnehan. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Before the simulated launch countdown in space shuttle Endeavour, the STS-123 crew gathers near the top of the fixed service structure on NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A. Seen from left are Mission Specialists Rick Linnehan and Robert L. Behnken, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson, Commander Dominic Gorie and Mission Specialists Mike Foreman, Garrett Reisman and Takao Doi. The countdown is the culmination of the terminal countdown demonstration test, or TCDT. The TCDT provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency egress training. Endeavour is targeted to launch at 2:28 a.m. EDT March 11 on the 16-day STS-123 mission to the International Space Station. Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Launch Pad 39A, the crew for space shuttle Endeavour's STS-123 mission traverses the exit route from the White Room during instruction on emergency egress from the pad. From back to front are Mission Specialist Mike Foreman, Commander Dominic Gorie, Pilot Gregory H. Johnson and Mission Specialists Takao Doi of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and Garrett Reisman. The crew is at Kennedy for a full launch dress rehearsal, known as the terminal countdown demonstration test or TCDT. The terminal countdown demonstration test provides astronauts and ground crews with an opportunity to participate in various simulated countdown activities, including equipment familiarization and emergency training. Endeavour is targeted to launch March 11 at 2:28 a.m. EDT on a 16-day mission to the International Space Station. On the mission, Endeavour and its crew will deliver the first section of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's Kibo laboratory and the Canadian Space Agency's two-armed robotic system, Dextre. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett