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Frederick W. “Rick” Sturckow (Colonel, USMC)
NASA Astronaut

PERSONAL DATA: Born August 11, 1961, in La Mesa, California but considers Lakeside, California to be his hometown. Married to the former Michele A. Street of Great Mills, Maryland. He enjoys flying and physical training (PT). His father, Karl H. Sturckow, resides in Lakeside and his mother, Janette R. Sturckow, resides in La Mesa.

EDUCATION: Graduated from Grossmont High School, La Mesa, California, in 1978. Bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from California Polytechnic State University, 1984.

ORGANIZATIONS: Marine Corps Association (MCA). Former member of Society of Experimental Test Pilots (SETP).

SPECIAL HONORS: Defense Superior Service Medal, Single Mission Air Medal with Combat “V”, Strike/Flight Air Medals (4), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, NASA Space Flight Medals (2).

EXPERIENCE: Sturckow was commissioned in December, 1984. An Honor Graduate of The Basic School, he earned his wings in April, 1987. Following initial F/A-18 training at VFA-125, he reported to VMFA-333, MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina. While assigned to VMFA-333 he made an overseas deployment to Japan, Korea, and the Philipines and was then selected to attend the Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN) in March, 1990. In August of 1990 he deployed to Sheik Isa Air Base, Bahrain for a period of eight months. Sturckow flew a total of forty-one combat missions during Operation Desert Storm. In January, 1992 he attended the United States Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards AFB, California. In 1993 he reported to the Naval Air Warfare Center- Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Maryland for duty as the F/A-18 E/F Project Pilot. Sturckow also flew a wide variety of projects and classified programs as an F/A-18 test pilot.

He has logged over 4,790 flight hours and has flown over 50 different aircraft.

NASA EXPERIENCE: Selected by NASA in December 1994, Sturckow reported to the Johnson Space Center in March 1995. He completed a year of training and evaluation and was assigned to work technical issues for the Vehicle Systems and Operations Branch of the Astronaut Office. He currently serves as Deputy for the Shuttle Operations Branch of the Astronaut Office, and also serves as Lead for KSC Operations Support. Sturckow has flown twice and has logged over 568 hours in space. He served as pilot on STS-88 in 1998 (the first International Space Station assembly mission), and most recently on STS-105 (2001). Sturckow is assigned as Crew Commander of STS-117 and is currently serving as the Chief of the Astronaut Office Capcom Branch.

SPACE FLIGHT EXPERIENCE: STS-88 Endeavour (December 4-15, 1998) was the first International Space Station assembly mission. During the 12-day mission, Unity, the U.S. built node, was mated with Zarya, the Russian built Functional Cargo Block (FGB). Two crew members performed three space walks to connect umbilicals and attach tools/hardware in the assembly and outfitting of the station. Additionally, the crew performed the initial activation and first ingress of the International Space Station preparing it for future assembly missions and full time occupation. The crew also performed IMAX Cargo Bay Camera (ICBC) operations, and deployed two satellites, Mighty Sat 1 built by the USAF Phillips Laboratory and SAC-A the first successful launch of an Argentine satellite. The mission was accomplished in 185 orbits of the Earth in 283 hours and 18 minutes.

STS-105 Discovery (Aug 10-22, 2001) was the 11th mission to the International Space Station. While at the orbital outpost, the STS-105 crew delivered the Expedition-3 crew, attached the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module, and transferred over 2.7 metric tons of supplies and equipment to the station. During the mission, two spacewalks were performed by two crewmembers. They also brought home the Expedition-2 crew. The STS-105 mission was accomplished in 186 orbits of the Earth, traveling over 4.9 million miles in 285 hours and 13 minutes.

Pilot Lee Archambault
An Air Force colonel with over 4,250 flight hours in more than 30 different aircraft, Archambault will serve as the pilot for STS-117.

Lee Joseph Archambault (Colonel, USAF)
NASA Astronaut (Pilot)

PERSONAL DATA: Born August 25, 1960 in Oak Park, Illinois, but considers Bellwood, Illinois to be his hometown. Married to the former Kelly Renee Raup. They have three children. Recreational interests include bicycling, weightlifting, golf, and ice hockey. His parents, Lee and Mary Ann Archambault, reside in Addison, Illinois. Her parents, Linda Post and Henry Raup reside in Royal, Illinois and Tavares, Florida, respectively.

EDUCATION: Graduated from Proviso West High School, Hillside, Illinois in 1978. Earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Aeronautical/ Astronautical Engineering from the University of Illinois-Urbana, in 1982 and 1984, respectively.

ORGANIZATIONS: Order of Daedalians (fraternity of military pilots), University of Illinois Alumni Association, University of Illinois Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering Department Academic Advisory Committee.

AWARDS: Military decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster), Air Medal (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster), Aerial Achievement Medal (4th Oak Leaf Cluster), Commendation Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), Air Force Achievement Medal, Combat Readiness Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Kuwaiti Liberation Medal, and various other service awards.

SPECIAL HONORS: Distinguished Graduate and Liethen-Tittle Award (top graduate) from the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School. Distinguished Graduate from the U.S. Air Force Officer Training School. Graduated with Honors from the University of Illinois. University of Illinois Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering Outstanding Recent Alumnus. Proviso West High School Hall of Fame inductee.

EXPERIENCE: Archambault received his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force from the Air Force Officer Training School at Lackland Air Force Base (AFB), Texas, in January 1985. Upon completion, he attended the Euro-Nato Joint Jet Pilot Training Program at Sheppard AFB, Texas, and earned his pilot wings in April 1986. He then reported to Cannon AFB, New Mexico, where he served as a combat ready F-111D pilot in the 27th Tactical Fighter Wing until April 1990. In May 1990, he transitioned to the F-117A Stealth Fighter in the 37th Tactical Fighter Wing at Nellis AFB/Tonopah Test Range, Nevada. From November 1990 through April 1991, he deployed to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm and flew twenty-two combat missions in the F-117A during the Gulf War. He served a second F-117A tour in Saudi Arabia from August 1991 through December 1991 in support of post-Desert Storm peacekeeping efforts. In August 1992, Archambault was reassigned to Holloman AFB, New Mexico, where he served as an F-117A instructor pilot and operational test pilot for the 57th Wing. Archambault attended the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards AFB, California, from July 1994 until June 1995. In July 1995, he was assigned to the 46th Test Wing at the Air Force Development Test Center, Eglin AFB, Florida. There, he performed weapons developmental flight tests in all models of the F-16. Archambault was the assistant operations officer for the 39th Flight Test Squadron when he was selected for the astronaut program.

He has logged over 4250 flight hours in more than 30 different aircraft.

NASA EXPERIENCE: Selected by NASA in June 1998, he reported for training in August 1998. Astronaut Candidate Training includes orientation briefings and tours, numerous scientific and technical briefings, intensive instruction in Shuttle and International Space Station systems, physiological training and ground school to prepare for T-38 flight training, as well as learning water and wilderness survival techniques. In June 1999, Archambault was assigned to the Astronaut Office Shuttle Operations Branch, where he worked on flight instrument upgrades that were incorporated into the Shuttle in 2003. In September 2001, Archambault was also assigned within the Shuttle Branch to serve as an Astronaut Support Person. In this role, Archambault supported launch and landing operations at the Kennedy Space Center, and was the lead in this role for STS-111 and STS-114. Beginning in October 2004, he picked up duties as a CAPCOM and will serve in this role during daily orbit shifts for STS-121. Archambault is assigned as the pilot on the crew of STS-117.

Mission Specialist James Reilly
An experienced spacewalker and veteran of two shuttle flights, Reilly joins the crew of STS-117 as a mission specialist

James F. Reilly, II (Ph.D.)
NASA Astronaut

PERSONAL DATA: Born March 18, 1954, Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho. Considers Mesquite, Texas, to be his hometown. He enjoys flying, skiing, photography, running, soccer, hunting and fishing.

EDUCATION: Graduated from Lake Highlands High School, Dallas Texas, in 1972. Bachelor of science degree in geosciences from University of Texas-Dallas, 1977. Master of science degree in geosciences from University of Texas-Dallas, 1987. Doctorate in geosciences from University of Texas-Dallas, 1995.

ORGANIZATIONS: Officer in the U.S. Navy Reserve. Member, American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Naval Reserve Association, Tailhook Association, Reserve Officers Association, Association of Space Explorers.

SPECIAL HONORS: Antarctic Service Medal, 1978. US Navy ROTC scholarship, 1972. Seventh Honorary U.S. Marshal, 2001.

EXPERIENCE: After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in 1977, Reilly entered graduate school and was selected to participate as a research scientist specializing in stable isotope geochronology as part of the 1977-1978 scientific expedition to Marie Byrd Land, West Antarctica. In 1979, he accepted employment as an exploration geologist with Santa Fe Minerals Inc., in Dallas, Texas. From 1980 to the time he was selected for the astronaut program, Reilly was employed as an oil and gas exploration geologist for Enserch Exploration Inc., in Dallas, Texas, rising to the position of Chief Geologist of the Offshore Region. Concurrent with his duties as an exploration geologist, he was actively involved in the application of new imaging technology for industrial applications in deep water engineering projects and biological research. As part of this work, Reilly has spent approximately 22 days in deep submergence vehicles operated by Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution and the US Navy.

NASA EXPERIENCE: Selected by NASA in December 1994, Reilly reported to the Johnson Space Center in March 1995, has completed a year of training and evaluation, and is qualified for flight assignment as a mission specialist. Initially, he was assigned to work technical issues for the Astronaut Office Computer Support Branch. Reilly flew on STS-89 in 1998 and STS-104 in 2001. He has logged over 517 hours in space, including 3 spacewalks totaling 16 hours and 30 minutes. Reilly was next assigned as the Astronaut Office lead on Shuttle training. Currently, he is assigned to the crew of STS-117. Concurrent with his crew assignment he is designated as Payloads and Procedures Operations lead for the Astronaut Office ISS Branch.

SPACE FLIGHT EXPERIENCE: STS-89 (January 22-31, 1998) was the eighth Shuttle-Mir docking mission during which the crew transferred more than 9,000 pounds of scientific equipment, logistical hardware and water from Space Shuttle Endeavour to Mir. In the fifth and last exchange of a U.S. astronaut, STS-89 delivered Andy Thomas to Mir and returned with David Wolf. Mission duration was 8 days, 19 hours and 47 seconds, traveling 3.6 million miles in 138 orbits of the Earth.

STS-104 (July 12-24, 2001) was the ninth assembly flight of the Shuttle to the International Space Station (ISS). Flight 7A delivered and installed the joint airlock module to complete the second phase of ISS assembly. Three EVAs were conducted during the mission with the third being the inaugural spacewalk from the joint airlock. Mission duration was 12 days, 18 hours and 35 minutes traveling 5.3 million miles in 200 orbits of the Earth.

Mission Specialist Steve Swanson
A member of the 1998 astronaut class, Swanson will make his first journey into space as an STS-117 mission specialist.

Steven R. Swanson
NASA Astronaut (Mission Specialist)

PERSONAL DATA: Born December 3, 1960 in Syracuse, New York, but considers Steamboat Springs, Colorado to be his hometown. Married to the former Mary Drake Young of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. They have three children. He enjoys mountain biking, basketball, skiing, weight lifting, running, woodworking and spending time with his family. His parents, Stanley and June Swanson, reside in Boise, Idaho. Her parents, Chan and Martha Young, reside in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

EDUCATION: Graduated from Steamboat Springs High School in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, in 1979; received a bachelor of science degree in engineering physics from the University of Colorado in 1983, and a master of applied science in computer systems from Florida Atlantic University in 1986, and a doctorate in computer science from Texas A&M University in 1998.

SPECIAL HONORS: Recipient of the NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal, the JSC Certificate of Accommodation, Flight Simulation Engineering Award, and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society

EXPERIENCE: Prior to coming to NASA, Steve worked for GTE in Phoenix, Arizona as a software engineer working on the real-time software of telephone system multiplexer/demultiplexers.

NASA EXPERIENCE: In 1987, Steve joined NASA as a systems engineer in the Aircraft Operations Division of JSC working on the Shuttle Training Aircraft. The Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) is a complex airborne shuttle simulator, which models the flight characteristics of the Shuttle from 35,000 ft. to main gear touchdown. In 1989, Steve also became a flight simulation engineer on the STA. During his time with the STA, Steve worked on the improvement of the STA’s navigation and control systems and the incorporation of a real-time wind determination algorithm.

In May of 1998, Steve was selected as an Astronaut Candidate and started training in August of 1998. After completing Astronaut Candidate training, which includes intensive instruction in Shuttle and International Space Station systems, Steve was assigned to the Astronaut Office Space Station Operations Branch. Steve has also worked in the Astronaut Office Robotics Branch and is now currently assigned as a CAPCOM (spacecraft communicator). Steve has also completed the advance training for EVA, the Shuttle and ISS robotic arms, and Shuttle rendezvous. He is assigned to the crew of STS-117.

Mission Specialist Patrick Forrester
Forrester, who conducted two spacewalks on the STS-105 mission, is assigned as a mission specialist for STS-117.

Patrick G. Forrester (Colonel, USA, ret.)
NASA Astronaut

PERSONAL DATA: Born March 31, 1957 in El Paso, Texas. Married to the former Diana Lynn Morris of Springfield, Virginia. They have two children. He enjoys baseball and running. His parents, Colonel (ret.) Redmond V. and Patsy L. Forrester, reside in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Her father, Colonel (ret.) Lurie J. Morris, resides in Jacksonville, Florida. Her mother, Bettye Morris, is deceased.

EDUCATION: Graduated from West Springfield High School, Springfield, Virginia in 1975; received a bachelor of science degree in applied sciences and engineering from the United States Military Academy, West Point, New York, in 1979, and a master of science degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering from the University of Virginia in 1989.

AWARDS: Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit; Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster); Army Commendation Medal; Army Achievement Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Expert Infantryman Badge.

SPECIAL HONORS: The Jack Northrop Award, Society of Experimental Test Pilots (1996). The Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center Certificate of Commendation (1995). NASA Space Flight Medal (2001). The Order of St. Michael (2001).

EXPERIENCE: Forrester graduated from West Point in June 1979 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He entered the U.S. Army Aviation School in 1979 and was designated an Army aviator in September 1980. He was subsequently assigned as an instructor pilot at the Aviation School and as the Aide-de-Camp to the Deputy Commanding General of the U.S. Army Aviation Center. In 1984, he was assigned to the 25th Infantry Division (Light), Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, where he served as a platoon leader, aviation company operations officer, and an assault helicopter battalion operations officer. After completing a Master of Science degree at the University of Virginia in 1989, he was assigned as a flight test engineer and as the research and development coordinator with the Army Aviation Engineering Flight Activity at Edwards Air Force Base, California. In June 1992, he graduated from the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School and was designated an experimental test pilot. In 1992, he was assigned as an engineering test pilot at the U.S. Army Aviation Technical Test Center, Fort Rucker, Alabama. Other military schools include the Army Parachutist Course, U.S. Army Ranger School, the Combined Arms Services Staff School, and the Command and General Staff College.

A Master Army Aviator, he has logged over 3900 hours in over 50 different aircraft.

Forrester retired from the Army in October 2005.

NASA EXPERIENCE: Forrester was assigned to NASA at the Johnson Space Center as an aerospace engineer in July 1993. His technical assignments within the Astronaut Office Operations Development Branch have included: flight software testing with the Shuttle Avionics Integration Laboratory (SAIL); astronaut office representative for Landing/Rollout issues, Multi-function Electronic Display System (MEDS) upgrade of the Orbiter fleet, and the Portable In-flight Landing Operations Trainer (PILOT). He has also served as the crew representative for robotics development for the International Space Station.

Forrester was selected as an astronaut candidate by NASA in May 1996. Having completed two years of training and evaluation, he is qualified for flight assignment as a mission specialist. Initially, Forrester was assigned to duties at the Kennedy Space Center as a member of the astronaut support team, responsible for Shuttle prelaunch vehicle checkout, crew ingress and strap-in, and crew egress after landing. He next served as the technical assistant to the Director, Flight Crew Operations. Following that, Forrester served as the Shuttle training and on-board crew procedures representative. He has also served as a CAPCOM for both ISS and shuttle missions. Forrester flew on STS-105 (2001). He has logged over 285 hours in space, including two spacewalks totaling 11 hours and 45 minutes of EVA time. Currently, he is assigned to the crew of STS-117.

SPACE FLIGHT EXPERIENCE: STS-105 Discovery (Aug 10-22, 2001) was the 11 th mission to the International Space Station. While at the orbital outpost, the STS-105 crew delivered the Expedition-3 crew, attached the Leonardo Multi-Purpose Logistics Module (MPLM), and transferred over 2.7 metric tons of supplies and equipment to the station. During the mission, Pat Forrester and Dan Barry performed two spacewalks totaling 11 hours and 45 minutes of EVA time. Forrester served as the prime robotics operator to install the MPLM. STS-105 also brought home the Expedition-2 crew. The STS-105 mission was accomplished in 186 orbits of the Earth, traveling over 4.9 million miles in 285 hours and 13 minutes.

Mission Specialist John D. Olivas
A former program manager at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Danny Olivas joins the STS-117 crew as a mission specialist on his first spaceflight.

JOHN D. OLIVAS (PH.D., P.E.) "DANNY”
NASA Astronaut

PERSONAL DATA: Born in North Hollywood, California and raised in El Paso, Texas. Married and has 5 children. Recreational interests include running, weightlifting, hunting, fishing, surfing, and mountain biking.

EDUCATION: Graduate of Burges High School, El Paso, Texas; received a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Texas-El Paso; a masters of science degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Houston and a doctorate in mechanical engineering and materials science from Rice University.

AWARDS: Six U.S. Patents; Four NASA Class One Tech Brief Awards; Five JPL-California Institute of Technology Novel Technology Recognitions; HENAAC Most Promising Engineer, McDonald’s Hispanos Triunfadores Award, NASA ASEE Summer Faculty Fellowship Award, Dow Life Saving Award.

EXPERIENCE: After graduating with his undergraduate degree, Olivas worked for the Dow Chemical Company as a mechanical/materials engineer responsible for performing equipment stress/failure analysis for the operating facilities. Upon completing his master's degree, Olivas pursued his doctorate while supporting engine coating evaluations for C-5 maintenance operations at Kelly Air Force Base. He also supported the Crew and Thermal Systems Directorate at NASA Johnson Space Center, evaluating materials for application to the next generation space suits.

Upon completing his doctorate, he received a senior research engineer position at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and worked in the development of tools and methodologies for nondestructively evaluating microelectronics and structural materials subjected to space environments. He was promoted to Program Manager of the JPL Advanced Interconnect and Manufacturing Assurance Program, aimed at evaluating the reliability and susceptibility of state-of-the-art microelectronics for use in future NASA projects. Throughout his career, he has authored and presented numerous papers at technical conferences and in scientific journals.

NASA EXPERIENCE: NASA selected Olivas in 1998. Astronaut Training included orientation briefings and tours, numerous scientific and technical briefings, intensive instruction in Shuttle and International Space Station systems, physiological training and ground school to prepare for T-38 flight training, as well as learning water and wilderness survival techniques. From 1999 to 2002, he was assigned technical responsibilities within the Robotics Branch as lead for the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator Robot and the Mobile Transporter. From 2002 to 2005 he was assigned to the EVA Branch and supported the research effort focused on developing materials, tools and techniques to perform on-orbit shuttle repair. He presently serves as lead of the Hardware Integration Section of the Space Station Branch, responsible for ensuring proper configuration and integration of future station modules and visiting vehicles. Olivas is assigned to the crew of STS-117 targeted for launch in 2007. STS-117 will deliver the second starboard truss segment to the international space station with the third set of U.S. solar arrays, batteries and associated equipment.

Image at right: STS-117 Commander Rick Sturckow trains in a mockup of the space shuttle cockpit at Johnson Space Center. Credit: NASA

When Atlantis heads for the International Space Station in March, its mission may sound a little familiar. The crew will install a new truss segment, unfurl new solar arrays and fold up an old one – all tricky stuff that’s been done on the past two missions.

“I jokingly call those flights the test flights for us,” said Kelly Beck, lead space station flight director for STS-117.

And with two successful missions leading the way, those involved with this flight are hoping it will be the best yet.

“We’re really fortunate that we have those guys to follow,” Atlantis’ commander, Rick Sturckow, said. “Almost everything went great on those missions, and the things that didn’t go so well, we’re able to learn from.”

The new set of solar arrays that Sturckow’s crew – Pilot Lee Archambault and mission specialists Patrick Forrester, Steven Swanson, John "Danny" Olivas and Jim Reilly -- will install on the starboard side of the station will be a mirror image of those installed on the port side in September. And like the crew that installed the port arrays, the STS-117 crew will be in charge of unfolding the arrays and preparing them to track the sun and generate power. It sounds straightforward, but the first time a set of solar arrays was unfolded in space in 2000, things didn’t go quite as intended. The array panels stuck together, allowing cables meant to pull the arrays taut to come off their pulleys and leave the array slack.

The crew was able to fix the problem, but to avoid it altogether in the future the unfolding technique changed when the second set of arrays was launched on STS-115. By unfolding them more slowly and during periods when the station flew in sunlight, the arrays were deployed without a hitch – a circumstance the Atlantis crew hopes to repeat in March.

“It takes a little bit longer to deploy, but it’s done in a safer manner,” said Cathy Koerner, shuttle lead flight director. “We’ll be doing that again for 117.”

Image at Right: The port solar arrays are seen in the far left of this picture. STS-117 will install matching solar arrays and truss segments on the starboard side of the space station. Credit: NASA

But the crew members also want to learn from a problem their predecessors experienced in September. A 10-foot wide rotary joint turns the solar arrays, allowing them to track the movement of the sun. But before that can happen, the bolts that keep the joint from shifting during launch in the shuttle’s cargo bay have to be removed.

That’s where the STS-115 crew ran into trouble – it turned out the bolts were screwed in more tightly than expected. It took more than 20 minutes and two astronauts to loosen one of them. So this time, Sturckow said, Swanson and Forrester, the spacewalkers who will be removing the bolts during the mission's second spacewalk, will be prepared.

“They’re working out every day,” he joked.

In case that’s not enough, however, they’ll have a tool on hand that will give their elbow grease a little more oomph.

“We have a torque multiplier that we’re bringing up that they didn’t have,” Sturckow said. “So if we do encounter the same difficulty with high torques that they had, we’ll break out this tool. And we’ll apply whatever torque it takes to break the bolt or back it out at the higher torque settings. So I don’t have any doubt that we’ll be able to remove those launch restraints.”

And from STS-116’s mission, Atlantis’ crew is planning to learn from the problem Discovery’s crew encountered in retracting a solar array that was circling the Earth for more than six years. Like the arrays activated in December, the new arrays won’t be able to rotate and track the sun until another set of arrays is retracted. And if STS-116 is any indication, it won’t be easy. It took more than 71 tries and an extra spacewalk to neatly fold the array back into its box during that mission.

The original plan was for the arrays to be folded by ground command while all the astronauts were inside the station. But flight controllers now are working on a plan that would have Forrester and Swanson ready to assist with the folding during the second spacewalk of the mission. And if that doesn’t do it, Reilly and Olivas could give it a try during the third spacewalk.

“I think we’re going to end up doing something totally new here,” Sturckow said.

The space station program will be looking at the data gleaned from all those attempts to retract the arrays to decide how to change the flight plan. Even with less than three months to go, Koerner said there’s still plenty of time to make modifications.

Image at right: A spacewalker on the station's robotic arm manually helps retract a solar array during STS-116. Credit: NASA

“It’s not like in the old days, where when you got within six months of flight you pretty much knew what you were doing,” she said. “When you’re doing assembly operations, everything that you plan to do is contingent on the flight prior to you and the hardware that’s already on orbit. In truth? The flight plan will be firmed up post landing when we can turn around and look at what we’ve done and feel good about the success of the mission.”

Brandi Dean
NASA's Johnson Space Center

Page updated 09/02/2007

Atlantis is suspended vertically in the Vehicle Assembly Building. Photo credit: NASA

Space Shuttle Atlantis hangs suspended in its sling in the transfer aisle of the Vehicle Assembly Building. Preparations are underway to lift the vehicle up into high bay 1, where it will be lowered onto the mobile launcher platform for mating to the external tank and solid rocket boosters.

The orbiter was transported to the Vehicle Assembly Building on Wednesday. First motion was at 6:19 a.m. EST.

The rollover marks a milestone in the start of the vehicle's journey to Launch Pad 39A, scheduled for Feb. 14. Mission STS-117 will be the first launch at Pad 39A in four years.

The flight of Space Shuttle Atlantis to the International Space Station on mission STS-117 has been targeted for March 15, a day earlier than originally planned.

On the next space shuttle flight to continue constructing the station, the Atlantis crew will install a new truss segment, retract a set of solar arrays and unfold a new set on the starboard side of the station. Lessons learned from two previous missions will provide the astronauts with new techniques and tools to perform their duties.

Commanding the Atlantis team is Frederick Sturckow, a veteran of two shuttle missions (STS-88, STS-105), while Lee Archambault will be making his first flight as the shuttle's pilot. Mission Specialists James Reilly (STS-89, STS-104) and Patrick Forrester (STS-105) will be returning to the station. Steven Swanson and John Olivas, both mission specialists, join the crew for their first flight into space.

The mission astronauts will return to Kennedy a few weeks before liftoff to participate in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. During this time they will practice launch activities, safety exercises, inspect the payload and conclude with a simulated main engine cut-off exercise.

Page updated 02/03/2007

Florida Storm Affects External Tank

At Launch Pad 39A, the external tank attached to Space Shuttle Atlantis shows damage from hail bombardment during a strong thunderstorm that passed through Kennedy Space Center about 5 p.m. EST on Feb. 26. A full assessment of the storm's impact is under way by NASA officials. Photo Credit: NASA/KSC

02.28.07 - 6:10 p.m. EST
NASA officials have decided to remove propellants that were loaded this week on Space Shuttle Atlantis before returning the spacecraft to the Vehicle Assembly Building. This work results in additional time at the pad, and rollback is now expected to occur Sunday or Monday.

Monday's severe thunderstorm with hail caused what could be 1,000 to 2,000 divots in the giant tank's foam insulation and minor surface damage to about 26 heat shield tiles on the shuttle's left wing.

Further evaluation of the tank is necessary to get an accurate accounting of foam damage and must be done in the Vehicle Assembly Building, where the entire tank can be more easily accessed.

Once an up-close look at the damage is complete, the type of repair required and the time needed for that work can be determined.

A new target launch date has not been determined, but teams will focus on preparing Atlantis for liftoff in late April.

The two-day Flight Readiness Review at NASA's Kennedy Space Center conducted by top-level NASA officials, space shuttle program managers, engineers and contractors will continue as planned.

Mission STS-117 to the International Space Station will be scheduled sometime after a Russian Soyuz spacecraft returns from the station. The Soyuz is delivering new station crew members and returning others back to Earth in late April. Adequate time is needed between the Soyuz undocking and the shuttle's arrival to the station.

During the 11-day mission, the six-member crew will install a new truss segment, retract a set of solar arrays and unfold a new set on the starboard side of the station. Lessons learned from two previous missions will provide the astronauts with new techniques and tools to perform their duties.

STS-117 Commander Rick Sturckow, Pilot Lee Archambault and Mission Specialists Jim Reilly, Patrick Forrester, Steven Swanson and John "Danny" Olivas will continue training at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, as they await a new target launch date.

The Atlantis flight crew will return to Kennedy Space Center in Florida few days before launch

page updated15/03/2007

Image above: In highbay 1 inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, technicians begin to carefully sand away the red dye that has been applied to the external tank to help expose cracks or compression dents. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossman

Page updated 21/03/07 Page upPage updated 21/03/07dated 21/03/07

NASA Managers Assess Shuttle Repair Work

Image above: Atlantis sits inside the Vehicle Assembly Building, while repair work continues on the external tank. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller

03.21.07 - 8:30 p.m. EDT
During a media teleconference Wednesday, March 21, NASA officials discussed the status of repair work to Space Shuttle Atlantis' external fuel tank, which was damaged during a Feb. 26 hail storm at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, Fla. The teleconference followed a meeting to assess the ongoing work. Managers decided that more testing and analysis are needed to determine whether the tank will be used for the upcoming STS-117 flight or whether the tank will be replaced. On April 10, the teams expect to have the necessary data to make that decision and to establish a potential target launch date.

All the hail damage spots on the tank have been mapped out. Repair work has been completed on the bottom portion of the tank, the liquid hydrogen section. The damage on the middle part of the tank, or innertank, was superficial and will require little or no repair. There are 2,500 dings, mostly in the top of the tank, that will be reviewed to determine what type of repair technique may be required.

During the STS-117's 11-day mission, the six-member crew will install a new truss segment, retract a set of solar arrays and unfold a new set on the starboard side of the station. Lessons learned from two previous missions will provide the astronauts with new techniques and tools to perform their duties.

Atlantis Commander Rick Sturckow, Pilot Lee Archambault and Mission Specialists Jim Reilly, Patrick Forrester, Steven Swanson and John "Danny" Olivas will continue training at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston as they await a new target launch date.

Page updated 14/04/07

External Tank Repairs Ongoing

Image above: In Kennedy's Vehicle Assembly Building, technicians point to markers showing the hail damage being repaired on the external tank of Space Shuttle Atlantis. Photo credit: NASA/KSC

04.13.07 - 4:30 p.m. EDT
In high bay No. 1 of the Vehicle Assembly Building, technicians and engineers continue the repair work to the hail-damaged STS-117 external fuel tank, ET-124, following a decision this week by Space Shuttle Program managers to target a launch date of June 8 using the repaired tank.

Preparations are under way for the removal of Atlantis' three main engines to inspect for flow liner contamination. This work can be accomplished within the time frame of the hail damage recovery effort, with no impact to the launch schedule for STS-117.

Page updated 21/05/007

Gearing Up for the STS-117 Mission

Image above: Reflected in the water of the Banana River at Kennedy Space Center, Fla., Space Shuttle Atlantis sits on Launch Pad 39A. Photo Credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

05.18.07 - 4:30 p.m. EDT
Space Shuttle Atlantis atop the crawler transporter made the slow journey to the launch pad early Tuesday morning. The vehicle was 'hard down' at Launch Pad 39A at 11:47 a.m. after leaving the Vehicle Assembly Building at 5:04 a.m. EDT.

Mission STS-117 was originally targeted for launch in mid-March, before a severe thunderstorm in late February generated hail that pelted the external tank requiring extensive repairs to the foam coating the tank.

Launch pad operations are now proceeding on schedule. The S3/S4 payload was installed in Atlantis' payload bay and preparations have begun for hypergolic propellant loading, which is scheduled for next week. Also, the orbiter weather protection curtain walls have been extended to provide additional protection to the vehicle.

There will be a flight readiness review held on May 30 and 31. A media event will be held afterwards to discuss the results of the meeting.

Page updated 11/06/07

Following rollback of the rotating service structure, or RSS, on Launch Pad 39A, Space Shuttle Atlantis stands bathed in lights atop a mobile launch platform. The RSS, the massive structure to the left of the shuttle, provides protected access to the orbiter for changeout and servicing of payloads at the pad. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

The sun rises on a cloudy Florida day to reveal Space Shuttle Atlantis awaiting launch atop a mobile launch platform at Launch Pad 39A. Rollback of the pad's rotating service structure is one of the milestones in preparation for the launch of mission STS-117 on June 8. Rollback started at 10:56 p.m. EDT June 7 and was complete at 11:34 p.m. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley

The STS-117 crew members gather for a photo prior to suiting up for launch aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis. From left are astronaut Clayton Anderson, who is joining the Expedition 15 crew on the International Space Station; Mission Specialists James Reilly, John "Danny" Olivas, Steven Swanson and Patrick Forrester; Pilot Lee Archambault; and Commander Frederick Sturckow. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Pilot Lee Archambault gives a thumbs-up as he suits up for launch on mission STS-117. He and his fellow crew members are inside Kennedy Space Center's Operations and Checkout Building going through final pre-launch preparations. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

The STS-117 crew members stride out of the Operations and Checkout Building as they head for the astrovan to take them to Launch Pad 39A. Leading the way are Pilot Lee Archambault (left) and Commander Frederick Sturckow. Behind them, left and right, are Mission Specialists Patrick Forrester and Steven Swanson, John "Danny" Olivas and astronaut Clayton Anderson, and James Reilly at the rear. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Photographers crowd around the countdown clock and flag post near the NASA News Center to capture the successful on-time launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis from Launch Pad 39A at 7:38:04 p.m. EDT on mission STS-117. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Trailing fire, Space Shuttle Atlantis roars toward the sky on mission STS-117. Below it can be seen the lighting mast atop the fixed service structure. Photo courtesy of Reuters.

From inside the Firing Room at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, NASA Associate Administrator Rex Geveden monitors the on-time liftoff of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS-117. Photo Credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls

RELEASE: 07-136

NASA's Shuttle Atlantis Begins Mission to the Space Station

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- The space shuttle Atlantis and its seven-member crew lifted off Friday from NASA's Kennedy Space Center at 7:38 p.m. EDT to continue construction of the International Space Station.

Shortly before launch, on behalf of the entire crew, Atlantis' Commander Rick Sturckow thanked the teams that help make this launch possible, and then added, "See you in a couple of weeks."

During the 11-day mission, designated STS-117, the crew will add a new structural component to the station, deploy a new set of solar arrays and retract an existing array. Similar construction work was conducted on the previous two shuttle missions.

The mission will deliver and install the 17.5 ton S3/S4 truss segments. This latest addition to the station's backbone will extend the right side of the truss and includes a new set of solar arrays. When unfolded, the 240-foot arrays provide additional power to the station in preparation for the arrival of new science modules from the European and Japanese space agencies. The crew also will retract a solar array to allow for the rotation of the new arrays to track the sun.

The station's newest resident also is traveling aboard Atlantis. Astronaut Clayton Anderson will join the Expedition 15 crew. Sunita Williams, who has been aboard the station since December, will return to Earth with the Atlantis crew. Anderson is scheduled to return to Earth on space shuttle Discovery's STS-120 mission in October.

Atlantis' crew is Sturckow, Pilot Lee Archambault and mission specialists Patrick Forrester, Steven Swanson, John "Danny" Olivas, Jim Reilly and Anderson.

Atlantis originally was targeted for launch in March, but a hail storm damaged foam insulation on the shuttle's external fuel tank and forced managers to roll the spacecraft off the pad to make repairs

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