Space shuttle Atlantis’ six astronauts are on their way to NASA Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Pad 39A, catching a ride in the famous Astrovan. Prelaunch activities continue on schedule as teams prepare for Atlantis’ liftoff at 2:20 p.m. EDT.
The shuttle’s external tank is fully loaded with more than a half million gallons of liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. The fueling process started on time at 4:55 a.m. and finished at 7:56 a.m. as the tank entered “stable replenish.” The launch team is not tracking any issues at this point that would prevent an on-time launch.
Weather remains favorable, with STS-132 Weather Officer Todd McNamara predicting a 70 percent chance of good conditions at launch time.