KSC-05pd-0221

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Space Station Processing Facility, the International Space Station module Node 2 is lowered toward a payload canister. The module is being transferred to the Operations and Checkout Building where it will undergo an element leak test. The installation of NASA's Node 2 will denote the U.S. Core Complete stage of International Space Station assembly and increase the living and working space inside the station to approximately 18,000 cubic feet. It also will allow the addition of international laboratories from Europe and Japan to the station. Node 2 will provide a passageway between four station science experiment facilities: the U.S. Destiny Laboratory, the Kibo Japanese Experiment Module, the European Columbus Laboratory and the Centrifuge Accommodation Module. It also will provide connecting ports for Multi-Purpose Logistics Modules, the Japanese H II Transfer Vehicle and the Pressurized Mating Adapter 2 to which Space Shuttles dock. The Space Station Robotic Arm, Canadarm2, can operate from a powered grapple fixture on the exterior of Node 2. It is scheduled for launch on shuttle mission STS-120, station assembly flight 10A.