Space Shuttle Atlantis is Secured at Launch Pad 39A

At NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis is firmly secured to the fixed service structure pedestals at Launch Pad 39A. The 3.4-mile journey from the Vehicle Assembly Building to the launch pad began at 6:38 a.m. EDT and was completed at 1:31 p.m.

The pad’s protective rotating service structure will be closed around the shuttle tonight, and launch pad teams will begin preparations to support Atlantis’ targeted Nov. 12 launch at 4:04 p.m. EST.

Space shuttle Atlantis atop the mobile launcher platform is secured on Launch Pad 39A. Credit: NASA/KSC

The STS-129 astronauts are scheduled to fly to Kennedy on Oct. 19 to participate in the three-day Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test, or TCDT. This training gives the crew an opportunity to check the fit of their spacesuits, practice emergency evacuation procedures at the launch pad, review firefighting methods and participate in a simulated launch countdown.

Preparations for STS-129 Mission in Full Swing

The STS-129 mission will be commanded by Charles O. Hobaugh and piloted by Barry E. Wilmore. Mission Specialists are Robert L. Satcher Jr., Mike Foreman, Randy Bresnik and Leland Melvin. Wilmore, Satcher and Bresnik will be making their first trips to space.

Atlantis and its crew will deliver two control moment gyroscopes, equipment and EXPRESS Logistics Carrier 1 and 2 to the International Space Station. The mission will feature three spacewalks.

Atlantis also will return station crew member Nicole Stott to Earth and is slated to be the final space shuttle crew rotation flight.

Launch of Atlantis on the STS-129 mission is targeted for 4:04 p.m. EST Nov. 12.