NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Fla., is holding a media event Thursday, July 20, at 10:30 a.m. EDT to highlight the next element to be added to the International Space Station. The Port 3/4 truss segment is slated for launch aboard Space Shuttle Atlantis no earlier than Aug. 28.

The truss is the next major addition to the 11-segment integrated truss structure that will eventually span more than 300 feet. The P3/P4 truss, with its two large solar arrays, will provide one-fourth of the total power generation capability of the completed station.

During the event, reporters at the Space Station Processing Facility will have the opportunity to speak with NASA and Boeing mission managers involved in processing the element for flight. The P3/P4 truss is expected to be loaded into Atlantis’ cargo bay around the beginning of August.

Media without permanent Kennedy credentials should submit their request via the online accreditation Web site at:

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

Due to limited space, media planning to attend the event must contact Kennedy’s press site at 321-867-2468 by close of business July 19. Since the Space Station Processing Facility is an operational facility that deals with hazardous materials, all who participate must be properly dressed in long pants and closed shoes with low heels. Sleeveless shirts are not allowed.

For the latest information on the STS-115 mission, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/shuttle

For more information on the International Space Station, visit:

http://www.nasa.gov/station