File:KSC-05-S-00076 (ksc 031405 mplm rack).webm

English: The International Space Station's research capabilities will get a boost when Space Shuttle Discovery makes its delivery during mission STS-114. Technicians at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida are busy preparing the payloads destined for the Station, including the Human Research Facility 2. When installed, this unit will add biomedical instruments and expand the research conducted aboard the orbiting lab. This facility was loaded into the Raffaello Multi Purpose Logistics Module -- a unique space 'moving van.' It's designed to fit in the cargo bay of the Shuttle and transport large loads of supplies and equipment to the Station. Raffaello serves as both a cargo carrier and Space Station module. During launch and landing, it's mounted in the cargo bay. On arrival at the Space Station, the module is docked using the Shuttle's robotic arm, allowing the cargo to be off-loaded. STS-114 will mark the third time Raffaello has flown in space. The module is 21 feet long and 15 feet in diameter, and at full capacity can carry up to 10 tons of cargo. The Human Research Facility will be delivered to the Station with other equipment and supplies like clothing, food and spare parts.