1. Preparation for Launch
In the Vertical Processing Facility, TRW (now NGST) technicians check the point of attachment of the solar panel array at right.
(Photo: NASA)

2. Preparation for Launch
In the Vertical Processing Facility, TRW (now NGST) technicians look at the point of attachment on the Chandra X-ray Observatory, at left, for the solar panel array (behind them). They are getting ready to attach and deploy the solar panel.
(Photo: NASA)

3. Preparation for Launch
In the Vertical Processing Facility, STS-93 Pilot Jeff Ashby gets a close look at the Chandra X-ray Observatory.
(Photo: NASA)

4. Preparation for Launch
In the Vertical Processing Facility, STS-93 Pilot Jeffrey S. Ashby and Commander Eileen Collins join a TRW (now NGST) technician observing the Chandra X-ray Observatory on top of a work stand.
(Photo: NASA)

5. Preparation for Launch
During payload familiarization, four members of the STS-93 crew pose in front of the Chandra X-ray Observatory, which is in the Vertical Processing Facility. From left are Commander Eileen Collins, Mission Specialists Michel Tognini and Catherine Coleman, and Pilot Jeffrey Ashby.
(Photo: NASA)

6. Preparation for Launch
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), the Chandra X-ray Observatory is the object of attention of the STS-93 crew and workers on the floor.
(Photo: NASA)

7. Preparation for Launch
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers prepare the shrouded Chandra X-ray Observatory for its lift to a vertical position. The telescope will undergo final installation of associated electronic components; it will also be tested, fueled and mated with the Inertial Upper Stage booster. A set of integrated tests will follow.
(Photo: NASA)

8. Preparation for Launch
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers keep watch on the crane lifting the shrouded Chandra X-ray Observatory to a vertical position.
(Photo: NASA)

9. Preparation for Launch
In the Vertical Processing Facility (VPF), workers move the shrouded Chandra X-ray Observatory on its workstand to the scaffolding behind it.
(Photo: NASA)