On a workstand in the Space Station Processing Facility KSC workers take a look at the U.S. laboratory module has been removed.

On a workstand in the Space Station Processing Facility, KSC workers take a look at the U.S. laboratory module, an element of the International Space Station, after its protective cover has been removed. The lab will undergo pre-launch preparations before its launch aboard the Shuttle Endeavour on mission STS-98. The laboratory comprises three cylindrical sections with two end cones. Each end-cone contains a hatch opening for entering and exiting the lab. The lab will provide a shirtsleeve environment for research in the areas of life science, microgravity science, Earth science and space science. Designated Flight 5A, this mission is targeted for launch in early 2000