The crawler-transporter has moved under the mobile launcher platform holding Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39A.

The crawler-transporter, with its massive treads, has moved under the mobile launcher platform holding Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad 39A. The crawler will move the shuttle back to the Vehicle Assembly Building where the shuttle will be examined for hail damage. A severe thunderstorm with golf ball-sized hail caused divots in the giant tank's foam insulation and minor surface damage to about 26 heat shield tiles on the shuttle's left wing. Further evaluation of the tank is necessary to get an accurate accounting of foam damage and determine the type of repair required and the time needed for that work. A new target launch date has not been determined, but teams will focus on preparing Atlantis for liftoff in late April. Photo credit: NASA/Amanda Diller