Raffaello MPLM


The Raffaello MPLM, also known as MPLM-2, was one of three Multi-Purpose Logistics Modules which were operated by NASA to transfer supplies and equipment to and from the International Space Station. Raffaello was used for four of twelve MPLM flights to the space station, with Leonardo being used for the remainder. It was first launched on 19 April 2001, aboard the STS-100 mission flown by, and made its third flight in July 2005, aboard Discovery on STS-114. For the last time, Raffaello was launched aboard on the STS-135 mission, the last flight of the Space Shuttle. As of June 2015, it is now being stored at the Kennedy Space Center.

Construction

Like the other Multi-Purpose Logistics Modules, Raffaello was constructed by the Italian Space Agency, who chose to name it after the painter and architect Raffaello Sanzio. The module was constructed in the late 1990s, and delivered to NASA at the Kennedy Space Center in August 1999.

Flights

MissionOrbiterLaunch Landing
STS-100Endeavour19 April 20011 May 2001
STS-108Endeavour5 December 200117 December 2001
STS-114Discovery26 July 20059 August 2005
STS-135Atlantis8 July 201121 July 2011