Discovery's seven astronauts, all now at Kennedy Space Center, prepared for their first full day of their countdown exercises Wednesday, in advance of the space shuttle's scheduled launch in July. The crew's morning began with breakfast.
Then, wearing their traditional blue suits, they stepped out of their quarters for the 20-minute ride to Launch Pad 39B, where they greeted the media.
Commander Steven Lindsay introduced his crew members and described their responsibilities. The team then answered questions about the mission and readiness for flight.
Wednesday's activities involved safety training – where the astronauts familiarize themselves with launch pad escape routes, fire suppression procedures and an emergency egress walkdown. After lunch, the STS-121 mission team was briefed on the orbiter and its payload, including a late-afternoon payload bay walkdown.
Following a full day of activities and briefings the crew enjoyed dinner and a little relaxation to prepare for Thursday's program.
Space Shuttle Discovery's launch is targeted for July 1 in a launch window that extends to July 19. The STS-121 mission will visit the International Space Station and continue evaluating new shuttle safety improvements.
NASA controllers have planned at least two spacewalks during the 12-day mission, which also includes repair work to the station.
