SPACEPHOTOS

(08/08/2001) -- Space Shuttle Discovery is bathed in light after rollback of the Rotating Service Structure in preparation for launch on mission STS-105. The Shuttle comprises the two solid rocket boosters, external tank and orbiter, all of which are secured on the mobile launcher platform beneath them. Extending toward Discovery from the fixed service structure at left is the orbiter access arm. At the end of the arm is the White Room, an environmental chamber that mates with the orbiter and allows personnel to enter the crew compartment. Below, on either side of the orbiter’s tail are the tail service masts that support the fluid, gas and electrical requirements of the orbiter’s liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen aft T-0 umbilicals. On mission STS-105, Discovery will be transporting the Expedition Three crew and several payloads and scientific experiments to the ISS, including the Early Ammonia Servicer (EAS) tank. The EAS, which will support the thermal control subsystems until a permanent system is activated, will be attached to the Station during two spacewalks. The three-member Expedition Two crew will be returning to Earth aboard Discovery after a five-month stay on the Station. Launch is scheduled for 5:38 p.m. EDT Aug. 9