KSC-2009-6677

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a rack insertion device with its accordion-like arm, at center, is ready to interface with the rack handling adapter, at right. Installation of science racks and stowage platforms into Multi-Purpose Logistics Module Leonardo for space shuttle Discovery's STS-131 mission to the International Space Station nears completion. The cargo secured to the racks and platforms Leonardo delivers will be transferred to locations throughout the station. Three spacewalks during STS-131 will include work to attach a spare ammonia tank assembly to the station's exterior and to return a European experiment from outside the station's Columbus module. STS-131 will be the 33rd shuttle mission to the station. Launch is targeted for March 18, 2010. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller