Mission STS-133

The aim of the mission STS-133 is to deliver equipment and supplies to the ISS in a modified transport module "Leonardo" and experimental transport platform (Express Logistics Carrier 4). Transport Module "Leonardo" has been used for the delivery of equipment to the ISS and back to Earth. It is six times flew to the station, mission STS-133 module is modified so that it will always remain docked to the station, and will be used as additional storage space as part of the ISS. In addition, the "Discovery" space travel Robonaut 2 (Robonaut 2, R2) - a robot that is a joint development of the company "General Motors" and NASA. The purpose of the launch of the robot - to check its operation in zero gravity, the impact of his work cosmic and electromagnetic radiation. Robonaut weighs 136 kg and has an anthropomorphic head, torso and two arms that are able to work with different tools. NASA hopes that in the future these robots will be able to perform some work in orbit, including in outer space. Robonaut will work in the module "Destiny". Start mission is scheduled November 1, 2010. Under the cut, a small photo story about the current preparation techniques for the flight. Photo: Robonaut R2 on the tests in the laboratory Space Center. Kennedy.
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02. The system of maneuvering the shuttle (inside view).

03. The commander of the mission STS-133 is carefully studying the trailing edge wing panels shuttle.

04. Astronauts mission STS-133 are carefully studying of the propulsion system of the main engines of the shuttle in a repair shop space center.

05. The crew of STS-133 considers one of the three main engines of the space shuttle.

06. Training of astronauts in the simulator that mimics the part of sections of the ISS, in particular the part where the dome is installed. In order to give a realistic picture is projected on the background of the outdoor space and the construction of the ISS.