KSC-06pd2705

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the morning of the second launch attempt, Space Shuttle Discovery is ready on Launch Pad 39B. The SCAPE vehicle (Self-Contained Atmospheric Protection Ensemble) at left contains the equipment necessary to support recovery, if necessary, including recovery crew SCAPE suits, liquid air packs, and a crew who assist recovery personnel in suiting-up in protective clothing. It is present before every launch and at every landing. The first launch attempt of STS-116 Dec. 7 was postponed due a low cloud ceiling over Kennedy Space Center. The next launch attempt was scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 9, at 8:47 p.m. This will be Discovery's 33rd mission and the first night launch since 2002. The 20th shuttle mission to the International Space Station, STS-116 carries another truss segment, P5. It will serve as a spacer, mated to the P4 truss that was attached in September. After installing the P5, the crew will reconfigure and redistribute the power generated by two pairs of U.S. solar arrays. Landing is expected Dec. 19 at KSC. Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley