KSC-2009-5254

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility 1 at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, space shuttle Atlantis' payload bay doors are being closed. The Orbiter Boom Sensor System, or OBSS, is seen on the starboard side (right) of the payload bay. The 50-foot-long OBSS attaches to the Remote Manipulator System, or Shuttle arm. It equips the orbiter with cameras and laser systems to inspect the shuttle’s Thermal Protection System while in space. The designated shuttle for the STS-129 mission, Atlantis will deliver to the International Space Station two spare gyroscopes, two nitrogen tank assemblies, two pump modules, an ammonia tank assembly and a spare latching end effector for the station's robotic arm. Atlantis is targeted to launch Nov. 12. Photo credit: NASA/Jack Pfaller