At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility emergency rescue personnel get equipment ready after landing.

At NASA Kennedy Space Center's Shuttle Landing Facility, emergency rescue personnel get equipment ready for a simulated emergency rescue of a shuttle crew after landing. Known as a Mode VI exercise, the operation uses volunteer workers from the Center to pose as astronauts. The purpose of the simulation is to exercise emergency preparedness personnel, equipment and facilities in rescuing astronauts from a downed orbiter and providing immediate medical attention. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett