SPACEPHOTOS

(09/04/1997) -- With its rotating service structure (RSS) rotated back, the Space Shuttle Atlantis appears ready for flight at Launch Pad 39A. But there are still about three weeks of preparations until the planned launch of Mission STS-86 on Sept. 25. The RSS is rolled back to allow for the insertion of the major payload, the SPACEHAB Double Module, into the orbiter’s cargo bay. SPACEHAB will be used to transport items to and from the Russian Space Shuttle Mir on Mission STS-86, which will be the seventh docking of the Shuttle with the Mir. About three-and-a-half tons of science/logistical equipment and supplies will be exchanged between Atlantis and the Mir during the mission. STS-86 Mission Specialist David A. Wolf will transfer to the Russian space station, replacing NASA astronaut and Mir 24 crew member C. Michael Foale, who will return to Earth on Atlantis. Liftoff is targeted for Sept. 25