WIKIARCHIVES.SPACE

The STS-74 astronauts depart the Operations and Checkout Building, headed for the launch pad and a rendezvous in space. Leading the way are Commander Kenneth D. Cameron (front right) and Pilot James D. Halsell Jr. (front left). Behind them are the three mission specialists assigned to STS-74 (front to back): Chris A. Hadfield, representing the Canadian Space Agency; Jerry L. Ross, and William S. "Bill" McArthur Jr. Awaiting them at Launch Pad 39A is the Space Shuttle Atlantis, scheduled for a second liftoff attempt lift off during a seven-minute launch window opening at about 7:30 a.m. EST, Nov. 12. During its approximately eight-day flight, Atlantis will dock with the Russian Space Station Mir and a permanent docking extension will be attached to the station, and transfer of materials to and from the mated spacecraft will be completed. A first launch attempt Nov. 11 was scrubbed due to unfavorable weather conditions at the contingency Transoceanic Abort Landing (TAL) sites.