|
|
STS-93 Payload Bay Door Clos
…
| Title |
STS-93 Payload Bay Door Closure |
| Full Description |
At Launch Pad 39B, the Space Shuttle Columbia's payload bay doors close around the Chandra X-ray Observatory inside, while workers monitor the activity. Chandra is the primary payload on mission STS-93, scheduled to launch aboard Columbia July 20 at 12:36 a.m. EDT. The combined Chandra/Inertial Upper Stage, seen here, measures 57 feet long and weighs 50,162 pounds. Fully deployed with solar arrays extended, the observatory measures 45.3 feet long and 64 feet wide. The world's most powerful X-ray telescope, Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe. |
| Date |
7/17/1999 |
| NASA Center |
Kennedy Space Center |
|
STS-93 Rollover
| Title |
STS-93 Rollover |
| Full Description |
The orbiter Columbia, aboard its orbiter transporter system, rolls toward the opening in the Vehicle Assembly Building where it will undergo external tank mating operations. Columbia is scheduled for rollout to Launch Pad 39B on Monday, June 7, for mission STS-93. The primary mission objective will be the deployment of the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, recently renamed the Chandra X-Ray Observatory. Mission STS-93 will be the first Space Shuttle commanded by a woman, Commander Eileen M. Collins. It is scheduled to launch July 22 at 12:27 a.m. EDT although that date is currently under review. |
| Date |
6/2/1999 |
| NASA Center |
Kennedy Space Center |
|
Chandra X-Ray Observatory in
…
| Name of Image |
Chandra X-Ray Observatory in Shuttle's Cargo Bay |
| Date of Image |
1999-01-01 |
| Full Description |
In this photograph, the Chandra X-Ray Observatory (CXO) was installed and mated to the Inertial Upper Stage (IUS) inside the Shuttle Columbia's cargo bay at the Kennedy Space Center. The CXO will help astronomers world-wide better understand the structure and evolution of the universe by studying powerful sources of x-rays such as exploding stars, matter falling into black holes, and other exotic celestial objects. X-ray astronomy can only be done from space because Earth's atmosphere blocks x-rays from reaching the surface. The Observatory provides images that are 50 times more detailed than previous x-ray missions. At more than 45 feet in length and weighing more than 5 tons, the CXO was carried into low-Earth orbit by the Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-93 mission) on July 22, 1999. The Observatory was deployed from the Shuttle's cargo bay at 155 miles above the Earth. Two firings of an attached IUS rocket, and several firings of its own onboard rocket motors, after separating from the IUS, placed the Observatory into its working orbit. The IUS is a solid rocket used to place spacecraft into orbit or boost them away from the Earth on interplanetary missions. Since its first use by NASA in 1983, the IUS has supported a variety of important missions, such as the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite, Galileo spacecraft, Magellan spacecraft, and Ulysses spacecraft. The IUS was built by the Boeing Aerospace Co., at Seattle, Washington and managed by the Marshall Space Flight Center. |
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STS-93 Columbia after rollou
…
| Title |
STS-93 Columbia after rollout to Launch Pad 39B |
| Description |
Space Shuttle Columbia sits on Launch Pad 39B less than two weeks after liftoff of Discovery on mission STS-96. Columbia was rolled out June 7 in preparation for the launch of STS-93 with its payload of the Chandra X-ray Observatory. The Rotating Service Structure will be moved into place around it on Tuesday, June 8. With the world's most powerful X-ray telescope, Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe. Columbia (OV-102) is the first of NASA's orbiter fleet, delivered to Kennedy Space Center in March 1979. Columbia initiated the Space Shuttle flight program at KSC when it lifted off Launch Pad 39A on April 12, 1981. |
| Date |
06.07.1999 |
|
STS-93 Columbia rolls over t
…
| Title |
STS-93 Columbia rolls over to Vehicle Assemble Building (VAB) |
| Description |
The orbiter Columbia, aboard its orbiter transporter system, makes the turn from the Orbiter Processing Facility (behind it, left) to the nearby Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) for external tank mating operations. Columbia is scheduled for rollout to Launch Pad 39B on Monday, June 7, for mission STS-93. The primary mission objective will be the deployment of the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, recently renamed the Chandra X-Ray Observatory. Mission STS-93 will be the first Space Shuttle commanded by a woman, Commander Eileen M. Collins. It is scheduled to launch July 22 at 12:27 a.m. EDT although that date is currently under review. |
| Date |
06.02.1999 |
|
STS-93 Columbia rolls over t
…
| Title |
STS-93 Columbia rolls over to Vehicle Assemble Building (VAB) |
| Description |
The orbiter Columbia, aboard its orbiter transporter system, heads for the Vehicle Assembly Building to undergo external tank mating operations. Columbia is scheduled for rollout to Launch Pad 39B on Monday, June 7, for mission STS-93. The primary mission objective will be the deployment of the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, recently renamed the Chandra X-Ray Observatory. Mission STS-93 will be the first Space Shuttle commanded by a woman, Commander Eileen M. Collins. It is scheduled to launch July 22 at 12:27 a.m. EDT although that date is currently under review. |
| Date |
06.02.1999 |
|
STS-93 Columbia rolls over t
…
| Title |
STS-93 Columbia rolls over to Vehicle Assemble Building (VAB) |
| Description |
The orbiter Columbia is rolled out from the Orbiter Processing Facility (background) on its transporter. It is being moved to the nearby Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) for external tank mating operations. Columbia is scheduled for rollout to Launch Pad 39B on Monday, June 7, for mission STS-93. The primary mission objective will be the deployment of the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, recently renamed the Chandra X-Ray Observatory. Mission STS-93 will be the first Space Shuttle commanded by a woman, Commander Eileen M. Collins. It is scheduled to launch July 22 at 12:27 a.m. EDT although that date is currently under review. |
| Date |
06.02.1999 |
|
STS-93 crew takes part in a
…
| Title |
STS-93 crew takes part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test |
| Description |
During the Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT) for mission STS- 93, Mission Commander Eileen M. Collins checks out the flight deck on the orbiter Columbia, in the Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3. The CEIT provides an opportunity for crew members to check equipment and facilities that will be aboard the orbiter during their mission. The STS-93 mission will deploy the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF) which comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the telescope, and the science instrument module (SIM). AXAF will allow scientists from around the world to obtain unprecedented X-ray images of a variety of high-energy objects to help understand the structure and evolution of the universe. Collins is the first woman to serve as a shuttle mission commander. The other STS-93 crew members are Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman, Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby, Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley and Mission Specialist Michel Tognini of France. Targeted date for the launch of STS-93 is March 18, 1999. |
| Date |
11.13.1998 |
|
STS-93 crew takes part in a
…
| Title |
STS-93 crew takes part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test |
| Description |
In the Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, during the Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT) for mission STS-93, Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley checks out equipment in the orbiter Columbia. The CEIT provides an opportunity for crew members to check equipment and facilities that will be aboard the orbiter during their mission. The STS-93 mission will deploy the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF), which comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the telescope, and the science instrument module (SIM). AXAF will allow scientists from around the world to obtain unprecedented X-ray images of a variety of high-energy objects to help understand the structure and evolution of the universe. The other STS-93 crew members are Mission Commander Eileen M. Collins, Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby, Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman and Mission Specialist Michel Tognini of France. Targeted date for the launch of STS-93 is March 18, 1999. |
| Date |
11.13.1998 |
|
STS-93 crew takes part in a
…
| Title |
STS-93 crew takes part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test |
| Description |
In the Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, aboard the orbiter Columbia, STS-93 Mission Commander Eileen M. Collins listens to Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley during the Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT). Collins is the first woman to serve as a mission commander on a shuttle flight. The CEIT provides an opportunity for crew members to check equipment and facilities that will be aboard the orbiter during their mission. The rest of the crew members are Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby, Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman, and Mission Specialist Michel Tognini of France. The STS-93 mission will deploy the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF), which comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the telescope, and the science instrument module (SIM). AXAF will allow scientists from around the world to obtain unprecedented X-ray images of a variety of high-energy objects to help understand the structure and evolution of the universe. Targeted date for the launch of STS-93 is March 18, 1999. |
| Date |
11.13.1998 |
|
STS-93 crew takes part in a
…
| Title |
STS-93 crew takes part in a Crew Equipment Interface Test |
| Description |
In the Orbiter Processing Facility Bay 3, during the Crew Equipment Interface Test (CEIT) for mission STS-93, Mission Commander Eileen M. Collins checks out her seat in the orbiter Columbia. Collins is the first woman to serve as a mission commander on a shuttle flight. The CEIT provides an opportunity for crew members to check equipment and facilities that will be aboard the orbiter during their mission. The STS-93 mission will deploy the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF), which comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the telescope, and the science instrument module (SIM). AXAF will allow scientists from around the world to obtain unprecedented X-ray images of a variety of high-energy objects to help understand the structure and evolution of the universe. The other STS-93 crew members are Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby, Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman, Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley and Mission Specialist Michel Tognini of France. Targeted date for the launch of STS-93 is March 18, 1999. |
| Date |
11.13.1998 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- 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. The two-day STS-117 Flight Readiness Review is being held concurrently with the assessment. Hail also impacted Space Shuttle Columbia before the launch of STS-4 in 1982, Atlantis, being readied for STS-38 in 1990, and Discovery, before the launch of STS-96 in 1999. |
| Release Date |
02/27/2007 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- 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. The two-day STS-117 Flight Readiness Review is being held concurrently with the assessment. Hail also impacted Space Shuttle Columbia before the launch of STS-4 in 1982, Atlantis, being readied for STS-38 in 1990, and Discovery, before the launch of STS-96 in 1999. |
| Release Date |
02/27/2007 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- 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. The two-day STS-117 Flight Readiness Review is being held concurrently with the assessment. Hail also impacted Space Shuttle Columbia before the launch of STS-4 in 1982, Atlantis, being readied for STS-38 in 1990, and Discovery, before the launch of STS-96 in 1999. |
| Release Date |
02/27/2007 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- 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. The two-day STS-117 Flight Readiness Review is being held concurrently with the assessment. Hail also impacted Space Shuttle Columbia before the launch of STS-4 in 1982, Atlantis, being readied for STS-38 in 1990, and Discovery, before the launch of STS-96 in 1999. |
| Release Date |
02/27/2007 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- 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. The two-day STS-117 Flight Readiness Review is being held concurrently with the assessment. Hail also impacted Space Shuttle Columbia before the launch of STS-4 in 1982, Atlantis, being readied for STS-38 in 1990, and Discovery, before the launch of STS-96 in 1999. |
| Release Date |
02/27/2007 |
|
Inside the Vertical Processi
…
| Description |
Inside the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers attach the overhead cable to the Chandra X-ray Observatory to lift it out of its protective container. While in the VPF, the telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/08/1999 |
|
Inside the Vertical Processi
…
| Description |
Inside the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), the overhead crane lifts Chandra X-ray Observatory completely out of its protective container. While in the VPF, the telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/08/1999 |
|
In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers begin moving the overhead crane carrying the Chandra X-ray Observatory from its protective container to a stand on the floor. While in the VPF, the telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/08/1999 |
|
Inside the Vertical Processi
…
| Description |
Inside the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), the Chandra X-ray Observatory (top) lies in its protective container while workers on the floor prepare the overhead cable that will remove it. In the VPF, the telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/08/1999 |
|
Inside the Vertical Processi
…
| Description |
Inside the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers check the overhead cable that will lift the Chandra X-ray Observatory out of its protective container. While in the VPF, the telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/08/1999 |
|
Members of the STS-93 crew l
…
| Description |
Members of the STS-93 crew look over the Space Shuttle Columbia's main engine in the Space Shuttle Main Engine Facility as they listen to Al Strainer, with United Space Alliance. From left, the crew members are Mission Specialist Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES), Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby, Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley, and Commander Eileen Collins. At the far right is Matt Gaetjens, with the Vehicle Integration Test Team. The fifth crew member (not shown) is Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman. STS-93, scheduled to launch July 9, has the primary mission of the deployment of the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/09/1999 |
|
In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers check the placement of the Chandra X-ray Observatory on the stand on the floor. The stand will be used to raise the observatory to a vertical position. While in the VPF, the telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/08/1999 |
|
In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers move the shrouded Chandra X-ray Observatory on its workstand to the scaffolding behind it. The telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/10/1999 |
|
Inside the Vertical Processi
…
| Description |
Inside the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers begin lifting the Chandra X-ray Observatory out of its protective container. While in the VPF, the telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/08/1999 |
|
In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers guide the final stages as the overhead crane lifts the shrouded Chandra X-ray Observatory to a vertical position. The telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/10/1999 |
|
In the Space Shuttle Main En
…
| Description |
In the Space Shuttle Main Engine Facility, , STS-93 crew members listen to Site Director Dan Hausman, with Rocketdyne, while looking over the main engine of the Space Shuttle Columbia. From left, they are Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby, Mission Specialists Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES), and Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman, Commander Eileen Collins and Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley. STS-93, scheduled to launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, has the primary mission of the deployment of the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/09/1999 |
|
STS-93 Commander Eileen Coll
…
| Description |
STS-93 Commander Eileen Collins (pictured) is the first woman to serve as a shuttle mission commander. She was the first woman pilot of a Space Shuttle, on mission STS-63, and also served as pilot on mission STS-84. Collins will command the crew of STS-93 on a five-day mission aboard Space Shuttle Columbia on its newly scheduled launch date July 9. The other STS-93 crew members are Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby and Mission Specialists Steven A. Hawley, Catherine G. Coleman and Michel Tognini of France, representing the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). The primary mission of STS-93 is the deployment of the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/09/1999 |
|
In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), the shrouded Chandra X-ray Observatory achieves a vertical position via the overhead crane. The telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/10/1999 |
|
In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), the STS-93 crew stands in front of the VPF Aft Flight Deck simulator, which is part of KSC's Cargo Integration Test Equipment. From left, they are Mission Specialist Michel Tognini of France, Commander Eileen M. Collins, Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley, Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby and Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman. Tognini represents France's space agency, the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). STS-93, scheduled to launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, has the primary mission of the deployment of the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which is undergoing testing in the VPF. Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/09/1999 |
|
STS-93 Mission Specialist Mi
…
| Description |
STS-93 Mission Specialist Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES), poses in the Space Shuttle Main Engine Facility, which holds the main engine of the orbiter Columbia. He and other crew members Commander Eileen Collins, Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman, Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby, and Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley are visiting Kennedy to look over the primary payload, the Chandra X-ray Observatory. STS-93 is scheduled to launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia. Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/09/1999 |
|
In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers check fittings and cables on the stand that will raise the Chandra X-ray Observatory to a vertical position. While in the VPF, the telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components, it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/08/1999 |
|
In the Space Shuttle Main En
…
| Description |
In the Space Shuttle Main Engine Facility, the STS-93 crew poses in the nozzle of Space Shuttle Columbia's main engine. From left, they are Mission Specialist Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES), Commander Eileen Collins, Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman, Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby, and Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley. STS-93, scheduled to launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, has the primary mission of the deployment of the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/09/1999 |
|
In the Space Shuttle Main En
…
| Description |
In the Space Shuttle Main Engine Facility, STS-93 crew members listen to Site Director Dan Hausman, with Rocketdyne, while looking over the main engine of the Space Shuttle Columbia. From left, they are Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley, Commander Eileen Collins and Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby. Other crew members (not shown) are Mission Specialist Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES), and Mission Specialist Catherine G. Coleman. STS-93, scheduled to launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, has the primary mission of the deployment of the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
02/09/1999 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- KSC workers stand inside the payload bay of the orbiter Columbia following completion of electrical wiring inspections. In the background is the open cable tray with the wiring. During launch of Columbia on mission STS-93, a damaged wire caused a short circuit in two separate main engine controllers. As a result of the findings, Shuttle program managers decided to conduct inspections of the wiring in Endeavour's payload bay before its next mission, STS-99. The inspection and possible repair work will lead to a delayed launch date no earlier than Oct.7. The primary payload of the mission is the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, a specially modified radar system that will gather data for the most accurate and complete topographic map of the Earth's surface that has ever been assembled |
| Release Date |
08/01/1999 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In the orbiter Columbia's payload bay, the head of a screw (shown here) is identified as the probable cause of damage to a wire that caused a short circuit in two separate main engine controllers during launch of mission STS-93. As a result of the findings of electrical wiring inspections, Shuttle program managers have decided to inspect the wiring in Endeavour's payload bay before its next mission, STS-99. The inspection and possible repair work will lead to a delayed launch date no earlier than Oct.7. The primary payload of the mission is the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, a specially modified radar system that will gather data for the most accurate and complete topographic map of the Earth's surface that has ever been assembled |
| Release Date |
08/01/1999 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- KSC workers stand inside the payload bay of the orbiter Columbia following completion of electrical wiring inspections. At right, behind and below them is the cable tray with the wiring. During launch of Columbia on mission STS-93, a damaged wire caused a short circuit in two separate main engine controllers. As a result of the findings, Shuttle program managers decided to conduct inspections of the wiring in Endeavour's payload bay before its next mission, STS-99. The inspection and possible repair work will lead to a delayed launch date no earlier than Oct.7. The primary payload of the mission is the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, a specially modified radar system that will gather data for the most accurate and complete topographic map of the Earth's surface that has ever been assembled |
| Release Date |
08/01/1999 |
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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Proper Wiring Protection: The cables closest to the heads of the screws in this photo are properly protected from abrasion. During launch of Columbia on mission STS-93, a wire damaged from abrasion caused a short circuit in two separate main engine controllers. As a result of the findings, Shuttle program managers decided to conduct inspections of the wiring in Endeavour's payload bay before its next mission, STS-99. The inspection and possible repair work will lead to a delayed launch date no earlier than Oct.7. The primary payload of the mission is the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, a specially modified radar system that will gather data for the most accurate and complete topographic map of the Earth's surface that has ever been assembled |
| Release Date |
08/01/1999 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A wire damaged by abrasion from the head of a screw (seen below the bundle) was found during electrical wiring inspections in Columbia's payload bay. During launch of Columbia on mission STS-93, a damaged wire caused a short circuit in two separate main engine controllers. As a result of the findings, Shuttle program managers have decided to conduct inspections of the wiring in Endeavour's payload bay before its next mission, STS-99. The inspection and possible repair work will lead to a delayed launch date no earlier than Oct.7. The primary payload of the mission is the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, a specially modified radar system that will gather data for the most accurate and complete topographic map of the Earth's surface that has ever been assembled |
| Release Date |
08/01/1999 |
|
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -
…
| Description |
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An orbiter has more than 300 miles of wires such as these shown here in the cable tray inside Columbia's payload bay. During launch of Columbia on mission STS-93, a damaged wire caused a short circuit in two separate main engine controllers. As a result of the findings, Shuttle program managers have decided to conduct inspections of the wiring in Endeavour's payload bay before its next mission, STS-99. The inspection and possible repair work will lead to a delayed launch date no earlier than Oct.7. The primary payload of the mission is the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission, a specially modified radar system that will gather data for the most accurate and complete topographic map of the Earth's surface that has ever been assembled |
| Release Date |
08/01/1999 |
|
In the KSC Life Sciences Bui
…
| Description |
In the KSC Life Sciences Building, Hangar L, Cape Canaveral Air Station, Dr. Haig Keshishian checks fruit fly larvae in a petri dish. The larvae are part of an experiment that is a secondary payload on mission STS-93. The experiment will examine the effects of microgravity and space flight on the development of neural connections between specific motor neurons and their targets in muscle fibers. Dr. Keshishian, from Yale University, is the principle investigator for the experiment. The larvae will be contained in incubators that are part of a Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (CGBA), which can start bioprocessing reactions by mixing or heating a sample and can also initiate multiple-step, sequential reactions in a technique called phased processing. The primary payload of mission STS-93 is the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe. The target launch date for STS-93 is July 9, aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, from Launch Pad 39B |
| Release Date |
03/09/1999 |
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In the KSC Life Sciences Bui
…
| Description |
In the KSC Life Sciences Building, Hangar L, Cape Canaveral Air Station, Shawn Bengtson, with Lockheed Martin, checks population cages containing fruit flies. The larvae of the flies are part of an experiment that is a secondary payload on mission STS-93. The experiment will examine the effects of microgravity and space flight on the development of neural connections between specific motor neurons and their targets in muscle fibers. That information could lead to understanding the effect of microgravity on human nervous system connectivity. The larvae will be contained in incubators that are part of a Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (CGBA), which can start bioprocessing reactions by mixing or heating a sample and can also initiate multiple-step, sequential reactions in a technique called phased processing. The primary payload of mission STS-93 is the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe. The target launch date for STS-93 is July 9, aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, from Launch Pad 39B |
| Release Date |
03/09/1999 |
|
In the KSC Life Sciences Bui
…
| Description |
In the KSC Life Sciences Building, Hangar L, Cape Canaveral Air Station, Mark Rupert, with BioServe Space Technologies, checks the canisters, or incubators, that will hold an experiment to fly on mission STS-93. The incubators will hold a mix of fruit fly embryos and larvae to examine the effects of microgravity and space flight on the development of neural connections between specific motor neurons and their targets in muscle fibers. The incubators are part of a Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (CGBA), which can start bioprocessing reactions by mixing or heating a sample and can also initiate multiple-step, sequential reactions in a technique called phased processing. The primary payload of mission STS-93 is the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe. The target launch date for STS-93 is July 9, aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, from Launch Pad 39B |
| Release Date |
03/09/1999 |
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In the KSC Life Sciences Bui
…
| Description |
In the KSC Life Sciences Building, Hangar L, Cape Canaveral Air Station, Jake Freeman and Mark Rupert, with BioServe Space Technologies, check canisters, or incubators, that will hold fruit fly embryos and larvae for an experiment to fly on mission STS-93. The experiment will examine the effects of microgravity and space flight on the development of neural connections between specific motor neurons and their targets in muscle fibers. The incubators are part of the Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (CGBA), which can start bioprocessing reactions by mixing or heating a sample and can also initiate multiple-step, sequential reactions in a technique called phased processing. The primary payload of mission STS-93 is the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe. The target launch date for STS-93 is July 9, aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, from Launch Pad 39B |
| Release Date |
03/09/1999 |
|
STS-93 Commander Eileen Coll
…
| Description |
STS-93 Commander Eileen Collins poses with her camera in front of the Chandra X-ray Observatory during payload familiarization. Other members of the STS-93 crew who are at KSC are Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby and Mission Specialists Catherine G. Coleman and Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). Collins is the first woman to serve as a shuttle mission commander. She was the first woman pilot of a Space Shuttle, on mission STS-63, and also served as pilot on mission STS-84. The fifth member of the crew is Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
03/24/1999 |
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In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility, STS-93 Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby and Commander Eileen Collins join a TRW technician observing the Chandra X-ray Observatory on top of a work stand. Other members of the STS-93 crew who are at KSC for payload familiarization are Mission Specialists Catherine G. Coleman and Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). Collins is the first woman to serve as a shuttle mission commander. She was the first woman pilot of a Space Shuttle, on mission STS-63, and also served as pilot on mission STS-84. The fifth member of the crew is Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
03/24/1999 |
|
In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility, TRW technicians get ready to attach and deploy a solar panel array on the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which is sitting on a workstand. The panel is to the right. Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 |
| Release Date |
03/26/1999 |
|
STS-93 Commander Eileen Coll
…
| Description |
STS-93 Commander Eileen Collins poses at the foot of the Chandra X-ray Observatory during payload familiarization. Other members of the STS-93 crew who are at KSC are Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby and Mission Specialists Catherine G. Coleman and Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). Collins is the first woman to serve as a shuttle mission commander. She was the first woman pilot of a Space Shuttle, on mission STS-63, and also served as pilot on mission STS-84. The fifth member of the crew is Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
03/24/1999 |
|
In the Vertical Processing F
…
| Description |
In the Vertical Processing Facility, STS-93 Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby gets a close look at the Chandra X-ray Observatory. Other members of the STS-93 crew who are at KSC for payload familiarization are Commander Eileen Collins and Mission Specialists Catherine G. Coleman and Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). Collins is the first woman to serve as a shuttle mission commander. She was the first woman pilot of a Space Shuttle, on mission STS-63, and also served as pilot on mission STS-84. The fifth member of the crew is Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
03/24/1999 |
|
A TRW technician joins STS-9
…
| Description |
A TRW technician joins STS-93 Commander Eileen Collins (center) and Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby (right) as they observe the Chandra X-ray Observatory on its work stand inside the Vertical Processing Facility. Other members of the STS-93 crew who are at KSC for payload familiarization are Mission Specialists Catherine G. Coleman and Michel Tognini of France, who represents the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES). Collins is the first woman to serve as a shuttle mission commander. She was the first woman pilot of a Space Shuttle, on mission STS-63, and also served as pilot on mission STS-84. The fifth member of the crew is Mission Specialist Steven A. Hawley. Chandra is scheduled for launch July 9 aboard Space Shuttle Columbia, on mission STS-93 . Formerly called the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility, Chandra comprises three major elements: the spacecraft, the science instrument module (SIM), and the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. Chandra will allow scientists from around the world to see previously invisible black holes and high-temperature gas clouds, giving the observatory the potential to rewrite the books on the structure and evolution of our universe |
| Release Date |
03/24/1999 |
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