Orbiter flight deck

Orbiter flight deck
Orbiter flight deck: main section of a space shuttle.
Altitude control indicator: system that indicates to the astronaut the altitude of the orbiter.
Altitude and vertical speed indicator: system that indicate to the astronaut the altitude and speed of the orbiter.
Cockpit window: part of the cockpit that lets the astronaut see outside.
Air vent: mechanism for ventilating the cockpit.
Control level: stick used to steer the orbiter.
Electricity distribution console: lighted panel indicating the state of the electric system to astronaut.
Fuel piles console: lighted panel indicating the operation of the fuel batteries.
Specialists seats: mission specialists seats.
Commander's seat: the shuttle commander's seat.
Keyboard for on-board computer: system used to access and control the on-board computer.
Command console for the repair auxiliary propellants and exterior tank: panel used to control the repair of the auxiliary thrusters and the external tank.
Cabin atmosphere control system: system used to regulate the cabin atmosphere.
Pilot's seat: pilot's seat.
Monitors for on-board computer: system used to control the on-board computer.

Photo :

How's this for a truly awesome photo? Shown in the foreground is Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad A. The shuttle in the background is Endeavour, on Launch Pad B. Currently, both shuttles are locked and loaded for launch, should something go wrong up in space with the October 11 2008 Atlantis mission. As Tom explains over at his Astronomy Blog, having two shuttles on the pad at the same time is rare, but it is not a cause for concern. When the ISS is not available for rescue purposes, as it might not be for this mission, a second shuttle is made ready for a quick launch. What is sobering, however, is this image is potentially the last of its kind. The space shuttle program is scheduled for retirement in 2010, leaving little chance for similar shuttle family photos in the future.