KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Space Shuttle Discovery looms large in this closeup as it rolls to Launch Pad 39B. The shuttle rests on the mobile launcher platform. Underneath is the crawler, providing transport via the crawlerway. First motion of the shuttle from NASA's Vehicle Assembly Building was at 12:45 p.m. EDT. The rollout is an important step before launch of Discovery on mission STS-121 to the International Space Station. Discovery's launch is targeted for July 1 in a launch window that extends to July 19. During the 12-day mission, Discovery's crew will test new hardware and techniques to improve shuttle safety, as well as deliver supplies and make repairs to the station. Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis
Location Kennedy Space Center, FL
Date May 19, 2006