The crew of space shuttle Atlantis gathered in the shadow of the launch-ready spacecraft Monday morning to discuss mission STS-122. The seven astronauts are to attach the European-built Columbus laboratory to the International Space Station during an 11-day flight targeted to begin Dec. 6.

Speaking to news media representatives gathered near Launch Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the seven astronauts detailed their roles during the mission and reflected on its larger meaning for the orbiting base.

"For us Europeans, it's a special event," said Hans Schlegel, a European Space Agency astronaut from Germany who will serve as a mission specialist. "It's an honor, it's a duty, and it's a joy." Schlegel flew his last mission in 1992, as a part of the STS-55 crew.

Frenchman Leopold Eyharts will be the second ESA mission specialist aboard Atlantis, and he will remain on the station for three months after the STS-120 crew returns home. Eyharts will replace current station resident and NASA astronaut Dan Tani.

NASA astronaut Steve Frick is commanding the mission, with Alan Poindexter as pilot and Leland Melvin, Rex Walheim and Stan Love serving as mission specialists. The group will perform three spacewalks to install Columbus, and will be equipped to stage a fourth one as well.

Atlantis is targeted to launch December 6 at 4:31 p.m. EST on its 11-day mission to the International Space Station.

4 5

E-Mail

Add Favorite

Print It

Free Sign Up - Start Making Money on Flixya »

Comments

Comment by 777 Sep. 01,2008 just added you to my friends and subscribed to your content. I have just uploaded new photo and blogs. If u have some time please visit my pages & comment on them. Don't forget+1 for me if you like. +hit

Comment by linsayhi Dec. 02,2007 ????!! :) Cheers+

Comment by bobotfel Nov. 26,2007 hits+1

Comment by 532054 Nov. 22,2007 +1 add me and rate my blogs and pics ill do same for u thanks