We've done all that we can think, as far as testing in a one-G environment and simulating the effects of our (shuttle) maneuvers on the mast. But there is that element of risk that there may be something we didn't get, that we don't quite understand.

230

This mission ... effectively jump-starts us back into assembling the International Space Station.

201

It is one of the most complex station assembly flights that we will conduct.

187

This mission will be a milestone for both the station and shuttle as we complete a major phase of the station's assembly.

183

There's certainly an element of mission risk. Not safety risk, mission risk.

181

We're becoming very organized and making progress in support of each other.

172

Soon after, we had loss of signal.

169

We're satisfied that the necessary precautions have taken place or we wouldn't launch.

166

It goes back to, how likely is it that you'll have a defect? Very low. And what is your test experience? Overwhelmingly positive. Then you look at your design, and your design is to be very safe. And you look at those, and it's a compelling story.

85