20 Quotes by Ron Dittemore

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.

The crew of this particular mission will attach the heaviest, largest and most complex piece of station hardware launched on the shuttle so far.

We're not launching with a problem. We're launching with what was a potential problem that we have cleared and is no issue.

The shuttle missions that have gone to the station so far have been extremely successful. This mission takes the level of complexity up a notch.

Teams are beginning the laborious process of looking through the data. It's going to take us some days and weeks to put it all together and make it correct.

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

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

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

ATK has worked closely with Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Air Force to successfully transfer the remaining PRP work to our facilities. We're proud to support this vital program and look forward to performing this work in the years ahead, even as we begin to work on elements of potential future systems.