21May09
Tests and testifying took up what NASA hopes is the last day in orbit for the space shuttle Atlantis.
With a landing scheduled for Friday, astronauts on the shuttle on Thursday conducted routine tests on landing systems needed before they return to Earth. The weather on Friday in Florida does not appear too welcoming. If needed, Atlantis conserved some power to continue landing attempts through Monday.
NASA will only try to land in Florida on Friday.
Also Thursday, astronauts testified briefly from orbit about NASA's budget before the Senate Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee.