File:KSC-06-S-00188

English: The STS-115 crew conducted prelaunch exercises at the Kennedy Space Center. The week included a fit check of their spacesuits, practice emergency evacuation procedures at the launch pad, check of the mission payload in the shuttle's cargo bay, review of firefighting methods, and participation in briefings on security and range safety. The astronauts received instruction on driving the M-113 armored personnel carrier as part of their emergency escape training. In addition, the commander and pilot practice landings in the Shuttle Training Aircraft, which has been modified to simulate the orbiter's unpowered, high-speed glide. The week's activities culminated in a launch dress rehearsal and simulated countdown after they suited up in their familiar bright orange launch and entry suits and traveled to the launch pad aboard the 'Astrovan.' At the pad, they were strapped in their seats aboard the space shuttle that will carry them on their mission, as the mock countdown was completed.