Prelaunch Test Under Way

The STS-114 Return to Flight crew arrived at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida late Sunday to participate in the Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test. The three-day event allows the crew to practice prelaunch activities, including launch pad safety training and a countdown dress rehearsal. The Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test takes place before each Space Shuttle mission.

After arrival at NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the STS-114 crew members pause on the runway while Commander Eileen Collins makes a brief statement to the media. Image credit: NASA/KSC

July 13 to 31 is the new launch planning window for the Space Shuttle Discovery mission. This gives NASA time to do additional work to ensure a safe Return to Flight for Discovery and its crew.

The Return to Flight mission is the 114th Space Shuttle flight, and the 31st flight of Discovery.

"Our intent with this effort is to make certain we are as safe as we know how to be before we launch the Space Shuttle and its crew," said Administrator Mike Griffin. "We want it to be right."

"We'll be ready to fly when the Space Shuttle is ready," said Mission Commander Eileen Collins.

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