Media are invited to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on Jan. 13 to mark the 40th anniversary of the use of crawler transporters in advancing space flight. In January 1966, the crawler completed its first successful move with a 10.6-million-pound launch umbilical tower. It moved three-quarters of a mile in about nine hours.

Throughout 40 years of service, the two crawlers have moved more than 3,500 miles and carried seven vehicles.

Media representatives will have the opportunity to tour one of NASA’s two crawlers. This will include the driver cab and engine room, with a chance to speak to current drivers and operators, as well as drivers from the Apollo Program. Participants can ride the crawler as it moves for an operational test.

Media interested in attending the event must be at the KSC News Center by 9:30 a.m. for transportation to the crawler.

Permanently badged media interested in attending this event should contact the KSC News Center (321-867-2468) by close of business Jan. 12. Media without KSC credentials should submit their accreditation requests via the online accreditation Web site at:

https://media.ksc.nasa.gov/

Media must be properly dressed in long pants and closed shoes with low heels. Sleeveless shirts are not allowed.

For the latest information on NASA’s return-to-flight efforts on the Web, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/returntoflight