Space shuttle Atlantis readied for launch

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla., Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Kennedy Space Center technicians in Florida started pressurizing space shuttle Atlantis' propulsion systems Wednesday, preparing the spacecraft for launch.

NASA said the shuttle's three main engines, as well as its orbital maneuvering system and reaction control system that will be used to steer Atlantis in space, were being readied.

Technicians are also completing installation of sensors and microphones in Atlantis' aft section for acoustic environment testing, the space agency said.

The shuttle's STS-129 astronauts were to fly to Kennedy Thursday from the Johnson Space Center in Houston, with their arrival telecast live by NASA at www.nasa.gov/ntv.

The launch countdown begins at 1 p.m. EST Friday, with liftoff of the 11-day mission to the international space station set for 2:28 p.m. EST Monday.