SPACEPHOTOS

(06/26/2001) -- In the Payload Changeout Room, Launch Pad 39B, the Joint Airlock Module (below) and Space Lab Double Pallet (above) are moved into the payload bay of Space Shuttle Atlantis for mission STS-104. The pallet contains two oxygen and two nitrogen High-Pressure Gas Tanks, which will be attached externally to the airlock during two of the STS-104 spacewalks. Once installed and activated, the airlock becomes the primary path for International Space Station spacewalk entry and departure using U.S. spacesuits, which are known as Extravehicular Mobility Units, or EMUs. In addition, the Joint Airlock is designed to support the Russian Orlan spacesuit for EVA activity. Launch of Atlantis is scheduled no earlier than July 12 at 5:04 a.m. EDT