KSC-05pd-0536
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 1 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, a worker looks out from the position number one engine opening in Atlantis as a Hyster fork lift (left) holding a Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) maneuvers into position for installation. Overall, an SSME weighs approximately 7,000 pounds. Three engines provide the thrust, along with the two Solid Rocket Boosters, for liftoff. After about 2 minutes, the two boosters are spent and are separated from the external tank. The SSMEs continue firing for about 8 minutes. They shut down just before the craft is inserted into orbit. The SSMEs are tested at Stennis Space Center in Mississippi. Atlantis is being processed for the second Return to Flight mission, STS-121, scheduled for launch in a window from July 12 through July 31.
Usage Rights
Most NASA images are in the public domain and free to use. Credit NASA as the source. Check NASA's media usage guidelines for details. Images featuring identifiable individuals may require additional permissions.
Details
NASA ID
05pd0536
Date Created
April 1, 2005
Center
KSC
Media Type
image
Photographer
NASA or National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Downloads
Download this image in multiple resolutions. All NASA media are free for public use.