In the Orbiter Processing Facility workers begin removing the Rudder Speed Brake panel on the tail of the orbiter Atlantis.

In the Orbiter Processing Facility, workers begin removing the Rudder Speed Brake panel on the vertical tail of the orbiter Atlantis. The Rudder Speed Brake is being removed for inspection and maintenance prior to Return to Flight. The vertical tail consists of a structural fin surface made of aluminum, the Rudder Speed Brake surface, a tip and a lower trailing edge. The rudder splits into two halves to serve as a speed brake. The vertical tail and Rudder Speed Brake are covered with a reusable thermal protection system. The Rudder Speed Brake is used to guide and slow the Shuttle as it comes in for a landing.