Existing comment:
This is Pad A. There are two shuttle launch sites. Each is based on a Fixed Service Structure (FSS) which provides access to the entire Space Shuttle system including the orbiter cockpit, external tank, solid rocket boosters, and emergency exit system. The white balls near the structure are the Liquid Oxygen Tanks. Liquid oxygen, used as an oxidizer by the orbiter main engines, is stored in this 900,000 gallon tank, then transferred to the External Tank several hours before launch. |