Posted: Fri, Feb 9, 2001, 1:17 PM ET (1817 GMT)
The space shuttle Atlantis successfully docked with the International Space Station Friday, setting the stage for the installation of a critical station module tomorrow. The shuttle docked at 11:51 am EST (1651 GMT) after a problem-free approach to the orbiting facility. Hatches separating the two spacecraft will be opened later today for a welcoming ceremony and planning meetings between the two crews. The shuttle crew will also prepare for an EVA tomorrow to attach the Destiny lab module to ISS, the first of three EVAs planned during the mission. Atlantis will remain docked to the station until Friday, February 16.

Related Links:

•  Spaceflight Now mission status center
•  NASA Human Spaceflight shuttle information