STS-114 PAYLOADS
International Space Station Flight LF1

Raffaello Multi-Purpose Logistics Module

The Raffaello Multi-Purpose Logistics Module will be making its third trip to the International Space Station during STS-114. The module will be filled with equipment and supplies to support future crews and their activities aboard the Station.

The Raffaello Multi-Purpose Logistics Module, shown here during STS-108, is the metal cylinder at the back of the Space Shuttle's payload bay, near the tail of the spacecraft.

Raffaello, which was provided by the Italian Space Agency, is the primary payload for STS-114. It is one of three such pressurized modules that serve as the ISS' "moving vans," carrying laboratory racks filled with equipment, experiments and supplies to and from the station aboard the Space Shuttle.

The unpiloted, reusable logistics modules function as both a cargo carrier and a Space Station module when flown. Mounted in the Space Shuttle's cargo bay for launch and landing, they are berthed to the Station using the Shuttle's robotic arm after the Shuttle has docked. While berthed to the Station, racks of equipment are unloaded from the module and then old racks and equipment may be reloaded to be taken back to Earth.