Workers at NASA's Kennedy Space Center pose as astronauts during a simulated emergency landing of a shuttle crew.

Workers at NASA's Kennedy Space Center pose as astronauts during a simulated emergency landing of a shuttle crew. From left are Charlie Plain, with InDyne Inc.; Debbie Awtonomow, with NASA; and Brian Bateman, with United Space Alliance. 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/George Shelton