The Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1 is prepared for installation in the payload canister before transport to Launch Pad 39A.
April 5, 2010 – In the Space Station Processing Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Russian-built Mini-Research Module-1 is prepared for installation in the payload canister before transport to Launch Pad 39A. The six-member crew of space shuttle Atlantis’ STS-132 mission will deliver the module, known as Rassvet, to the International Space Station. The second in a series of new pressurized components for Russia, it will be permanently attached to the Earth-facing port of the Zarya control module. Rassvet, which translates to “dawn,” will be used for cargo storage and will provide an additional docking port to the station.
Image credit: NASA/Gianni Woods