KSC-2012-1811

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At Launch Pad 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, technicians prepare for the final release of the seven slidewire baskets from the 195-foot level. After the baskets reach the ground they will be removed and put in storage. The system of seven slidewire baskets at launch pads A and B provided an escape route for personnel inside the orbiter or on the orbiter access arm. The baskets are suspended from slidewires that extend from the pad’s Fixed Service Structure to a landing zone 1,200 feet to the west. Each basket could hold up to three people. A braking system catch net and drag chain slowed and then halted the baskets sliding down the wire approximately 55 miles per hour in about half a minute. Photo credit: NASA/Frankie Martin