ISS021-E-029184 (18 Nov. 2009) --- This view of the aft portion of the Space Shuttle Atlantis, including the three main engines, was provided by an Expedition 21 crew member during a survey of the approaching vehicle prior to docking with the International Space Station. As part of the survey and part of every mission's activities, Atlantis performed a back-flip for the rendezvous pitch maneuver (RPM). The image was photographed with a digital still camera, using a 400mm lens at a distance of about 600 feet (180 meters).
Date November 18, 2009