CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed into Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed into Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed into Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed into Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor space shuttle Atlantis as it is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1. In the background is space shuttle Discovery after it was towed out of OPF-1. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1. In the background, space shuttle Discovery faces Atlantis after it was completely towed out from OPF-1. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is being towed on its way from the Vehicle Assembly Building to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1. A view of Atlantis’ nose cone area shows that the forward reaction control system has been removed. In the background is space shuttle Discovery after it was towed out of OPF-1. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1. In the background, space shuttle Discovery faces Atlantis after it was completely towed out from OPF-1. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttles Atlantis foreground and Discovery appear to be nose to nose. Atlantis was towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB and is being towed to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1. Discovery was towed out of OPF-1 for its trip to the VAB. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, photographers and workers snap pictures as space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1. Facing Atlantis is space shuttle Discovery after it was completely towed out from OPF-1. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttles Atlantis foreground and Discovery appear to be nose to nose. Atlantis was towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB and is being towed to Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1. Discovery was towed out of OPF-1 for its trip to the VAB. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1. In the background, space shuttle Discovery faces Atlantis after it was completely towed out from OPF-1. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is towed toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1 after being towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. At left, space shuttle Discovery is being towed to the VAB after being towed out of OPF-1. The tail cone protects Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is towed toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1 after being towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. At left, space shuttle Discovery is being towed to the VAB after being towed out of OPF-1. The tail cone protects Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is towed toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1 after being towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. In the background, space shuttle Discovery waits for its move to the VAB after being towed out of OPF-1. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis has been towed to the doors of Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1 after being towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. At left, space shuttle Discovery is being towed to the VAB after being towed out of OPF-1. The tail cone protects Discovery’s three replica shuttle main engines. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is towed toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1 after being towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. In the foreground, space shuttle Discovery is being towed to the VAB after being towed out of OPF-1. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is towed toward Orbiter Processing Facility-1 OPF-1 from the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB. In the background, space shuttle Discovery waits for its move to the VAB after being towed out of OPF-1. The work is part of the Space Shuttle Program’s transition and retirement processing of the three space shuttles. Atlantis is being prepared for display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and is scheduled to rollover to the complex in November. Photo credit: NASA/Tim Jacobs

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis moves out of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed away from the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This wide-angle view shows the space shuttle Atlantis as it enters Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Endeavour meets sister shuttle Atlantis in the background for a brief photo opportunity at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Endeavour moved from Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF to switch places with Atlantis which had been in the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Employees at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida watch as the space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Endeavour moves away from sister shuttle Atlantis in the background following a brief photo opportunity at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Endeavour moved from Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF to switch places with Atlantis which had been in the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Endeavour moves away from sister shuttle Atlantis in the background following a brief photo opportunity at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Endeavour moved from Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF to switch places with Atlantis which had been in the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – United Space Alliance technicians monitor the space shuttle Atlantis as it moves out of the Vehicle Assembly Building VAB at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Technicians monitor progress as the space shuttle Atlantis is towed into Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis completes its move into Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis switched places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Former NASA Endeavour flow director Dana Hutcherson, left, and former NASA Atlantis flow director Angie Brewer, pose with the two spacecraft that were brought together for a brief photo opportunity. Endeavour moved from Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF to switch places with Atlantis which had been in Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This wide-angle view shows the space shuttle Atlantis as it enters Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Endeavour meets sister shuttle Atlantis in the background for a brief photo opportunity at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Endeavour moved from Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF to switch places with Atlantis which had been in. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis begins backing out of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis moves out of the 525-foot-tall Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis meets sister shuttle Endeavour in the background for a brief photo opportunity at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Endeavour moved from Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF to switch places with Atlantis which had been in Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed away from the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis begins backing out of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed away from the 525-foot-tall Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed away from the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – United Space Alliance technicians monitor the space shuttle Atlantis as it begins backing out of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis begins backing out of the 525-foot-tall Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Employees at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida keep a watchful eye on the space shuttle Atlantis as it meets sister shuttle Endeavour in the background for a brief photo opportunity. Endeavour moved from Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF to switch places with Atlantis which had been in Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – United Space Alliance technicians monitor the space shuttle Atlantis as it begins backing out of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed away from the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis begins backing out of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis completes its move into Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis switched places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – The space shuttle Endeavour in the background moves away from sister shuttle Atlantis following a brief photo opportunity at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Endeavour moved from Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF to switch places with Atlantis which had been in the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – United Space Alliance technicians monitor the space shuttle Atlantis as it moves out of the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Members of the Kennedy Space Center team who helped process the space shuttles Endeavour and Atlantis, gather for a group picture after the two spacecraft were brought together for a brief photo opportunity. Endeavour moved from Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF to switch places with Atlantis which had been in Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Employees at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida watch as the space shuttle Atlantis is towed from the Vehicle Assembly Building. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour which had been in Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This wide-angle view shows the space shuttle Atlantis as it enters Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – This wide-angle view shows the space shuttle Atlantis as it enters Bay 2 of the Orbiter Processing Facility OPF at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Atlantis is switching places with Endeavour that moved into the Vehicle Assembly Building. In the OPF, Atlantis will undergo final preparations for its transfer to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex targeted for November. The work is part of Transition and Retirement of the remaining space shuttles, Atlantis and Endeavour. Atlantis is being prepared for public display at Kennedy's Visitor Complex. Over the course of its 26-year career, Atlantis spent 293 days in space during 33 missions. For more information, visit http://www.nasa.gov/transition Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians help guide a special crane around space shuttle Atlantis so that work can begin to remove its forward reaction control system. The system provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress of a special crane as it lifts the forward reaction control system away from space shuttle Atlantis. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, work begins to remove space shuttle Atlantis’ forward reaction control system. The system provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the section behind space shuttle Atlantis’ nose cone is exposed after a special crane lifted the forward reaction control system away from the vehicle. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor a special crane as it is positioned around space shuttle Atlantis so that work can begin to remove the spacecraft’s forward reaction control system. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a technician monitors the progress of a special crane as it lifts the forward reaction control system away from space shuttle Atlantis. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians help guide a special crane around space shuttle Atlantis as work begins to remove the spacecraft’s forward reaction control system. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians help secure a special crane around space shuttle Atlantis as work begins to remove the spacecraft’s forward reaction control system. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress of a special crane as it lifts the forward reaction control system away from space shuttle Atlantis. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians help guide a special crane around space shuttle Atlantis so that work can begin to remove its forward reaction control system. The system provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, work begins to remove space shuttle Atlantis’ forward reaction control system. The system provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians help position a special crane around space shuttle Atlantis so that work can begin to remove the spacecraft’s forward reaction control system. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress of a special crane as it lifts the forward reaction control system away from space shuttle Atlantis. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians help position a special crane around space shuttle Atlantis so that work can begin to remove the spacecraft’s forward reaction control system. The system provided some of the maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Kim Shiflett

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis’ payload bay is open. Earlier, a special crane was used to remove Atlantis’ forward reaction control system. The system, which provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions, will be transported to White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico to undergo a complete deservicing and cleaning. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module is secured in the payload canister, after a special payload removal device was used to remove it from Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress as a special payload removal device lifts the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module high above Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress as a special payload removal device begins to lift the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module from Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians help position a special payload removal device above Atlantis’ cargo bay in preparation to remove the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress as a special payload removal device begins to lift the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module from Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the payload canister doors are completely closed around the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module after a special payload removal device was used to remove it from Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress as a special payload removal device is used to transfer the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module from Atlantis’ cargo bay to the payload canister. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress as a special payload removal device begins to lift the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module from Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Atlantis’ cargo bay is empty after a special payload removal device was used to remove the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module and transfer it to a payload canister. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress as a special payload removal device lifts the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module from Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a special payload removal device is used to lift the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module away from Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a special payload removal device is used to lift the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module high above Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a special payload removal device is used to lift the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module away from Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, doors begin to close around the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module after it was secured in the payload canister. A special payload removal device was used to remove it from Atlantis’ cargo bay. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a technician monitors the progress of a special crane as it lowers space shuttle Atlantis’ forward reaction control system onto a transporter. The system, which provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions, will be transported to White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico to undergo a complete deservicing and cleaning. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians assist as a special crane lowers space shuttle Atlantis’ forward reaction control system onto a transporter. The system, which provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions, will be transported to White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico to undergo a complete deservicing and cleaning. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a special crane is used to lower space shuttle Atlantis’ forward reaction control system onto a transporter. The system, which provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions, will be transported to White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico to undergo a complete deservicing and cleaning. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians assist as a special crane lowers space shuttle Atlantis’ forward reaction control system onto a transporter. The system, which provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions, will be transported to White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico to undergo a complete deservicing and cleaning. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is seen after a special crane was used to remove the forward reaction control system. The system, which provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions, will be transported to White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico to undergo a complete deservicing and cleaning. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress of a special crane as it lowers space shuttle Atlantis’ forward reaction control system onto a transporter. The system, which provided maneuvering capabilities to the shuttle during its missions, will be transported to White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico to undergo a complete deservicing and cleaning. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians assist as a special crane lowers space shuttle Atlantis’ forward reaction control system onto a transporter. The system, which provided maneuvering capabilities to the spacecraft during its missions, will be transported to White Sands Space Harbor in New Mexico to undergo a complete deservicing and cleaning. Atlantis glided to a landing, July 21, 2011, at Kennedy Space Center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, completing NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135. The shuttle is in OPF-2 being decommissioned and prepared for eventual display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex in Florida. Photo credit: Jim Grossmann

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- In Orbiter Processing Facility-2 (OPF-2) at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians monitor the progress as a special payload removal device is used to lower the Raffaello multi-purpose logistics module into the payload canister. Raffaello will then be readied for transport to the Space Station Processing Facility where its contents will be unloaded. Atlantis completed NASA’s final space shuttle mission, STS-135, after landing at the center’s Shuttle Landing Facility, July 21, 2011, at 5:57 a.m. EDT. Following removal of all payloads in Atlantis’ cargo bay, workers will begin to prepare the spacecraft for eventual permanent display at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Photo credit: Jim Grossman

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Space Shuttle orbiter Atlantis is towed from the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF) to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The move will allow work to be performed in the OPF that can only be accomplished while the bay is empty. Work scheduled in the processing facility includes annual validation of the bay's cranes, work platforms, lifting mechanisms, and jack stands. Atlantis will remain in the VAB for about 10 days, then return to the OPF as work resumes to prepare it for launch in September 2004 on the first return-to-flight mission, STS-114.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), Rick Beckwith, an orbiter engineer with United Space Alliance, explains to the media the reinstallation of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panels on the orbiter Atlantis’ wing leading edge. The media was invited to tour the OPF at KSC and to see the orbiter Atlantis as it is being prepared for Return to Flight. Both local and national reporters representing print and TV networks were able to see work in progress on Atlantis, also including wiring inspections and checks of the engines in the Orbital Maneuvering System.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF), Rick Beckwith, an orbiter engineer with United Space Alliance, explains to the media the reinstallation of the Reinforced Carbon-Carbon panels on Atlantis’ wing leading edge. The media was invited to tour the OPF at KSC and to see the orbiter Atlantis as it is being prepared for Return to Flight. Both local and national reporters representing print and TV networks were able to see work in progress on Atlantis, also including wiring inspections and checks of the engines in the Orbital Maneuvering System.

S91-50776 (18 Oct 1991) --- The Space Shuttle Atlantis is moved from the Orbital Processing Facility (OPF) Bay 2 to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) at Kennedy Space Center, Florida. The Atlantis will be mated with the external fuel tank and solid rocket boosters before it is transported to Pad 39A, where it will launch a Department of Defense payload, Mission STS-44, in late 1991.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Space Shuttle orbiter Atlantis backs out of the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF) for its move to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The move will allow work to be performed in the OPF that can only be accomplished while the bay is empty. Work scheduled in the processing facility includes annual validation of the bay's cranes, work platforms, lifting mechanisms, and jack stands. Atlantis will remain in the VAB for about 10 days, then return to the OPF as work resumes to prepare it for launch in September 2004 on the first return-to-flight mission, STS-114.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - Workers monitor the Space Shuttle orbiter Atlantis as it is towed from the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF) to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The move will allow work to be performed in the OPF that can only be accomplished while the bay is empty. Work scheduled in the processing facility includes annual validation of the bay's cranes, work platforms, lifting mechanisms, and jack stands. Atlantis will remain in the VAB for about 10 days, then return to the OPF as work resumes to prepare it for launch in September 2004 on the first return-to-flight mission, STS-114.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Space Shuttle orbiter Atlantis is moments away from a tow from the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF) to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The move will allow work to be performed in the OPF that can only be accomplished while the bay is empty. Work scheduled in the processing facility includes annual validation of the bay's cranes, work platforms, lifting mechanisms, and jack stands. Atlantis will remain in the VAB for about 10 days, then return to the OPF as work resumes to prepare it for launch in September 2004 on the first return-to-flight mission, STS-114.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - The Space Shuttle orbiter Atlantis is reflected in a rain puddle as it is towed from the Orbiter Processing Facility (OPF) to the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB). The move will allow work to be performed in the OPF that can only be accomplished while the bay is empty. Work scheduled in the processing facility includes annual validation of the bay's cranes, work platforms, lifting mechanisms, and jack stands. Atlantis will remain in the VAB for about 10 days, then return to the OPF as work resumes to prepare it for launch in September 2004 on the first return-to-flight mission, STS-114.