NASA engineers and managers are evaluating the data from Space Shuttle Discovery External Tank (ET) tanking test Thursday at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Fla. The tanking test was yet another milestone in NASA's efforts to return the Shuttle safely to flight.

The 11-hour test also readied Discovery's main propulsion system and allowed technicians operating the hardware to gain first-hand experience on the redesigned tank. The test allowed crews to evaluate the overall operation of ground systems in preparation for launch on the STS-114 mission, planned for next month.

"With the completion of this tanking test, NASA is one step closer to returning the Space Shuttle fleet to flight," said Michael Kostelnik, NASA's deputy associate administrator for International Space Station and Space Shuttle Programs. "Although we have further milestones to complete before we fly, we are proud of the technical advancements we have made the last two years to ensure a safe mission," he said.

Technicians also closed the hatch of Raffaello, the Italian-built Multi-Purpose Logistics Module. Inside the 15-by-21 foot Raffaello are 12 "racks," which hold parts, clothing, food and experiments bound for the International Space Station. After the module's contents are delivered, it will be filled with the Station's used supplies and concluded experiments for transportation back to Earth.