H-II Transfer Vehicle KOUNOTORI (HTV)

HTV-1 set to depart from the ISS on October 31

All the systems of the HTV-1 continue to operate nominally. The HTV-1's Pressurized Logistics Carrier, once emptied by the ISS crew members, is now packed with trash and other discarded items. When the trash loading is completed, hatches between the HTV PLC and the Harmony will be closed. The HTV-1's hatch closure is scheduled at around 2 a.m. October 30, 2009.

At 10:30 p.m. on October 30, the station's robotic arm (SSRMS) will unberth the HTV-1 from the Harmony module (Node2), and will move the HTV-1 to its release position. The SSRMS is expected to release the HTV-1 at 1:05 a.m. October 31.

After departing from the ISS, the HTV-1 will be gradually lowering its orbital altitude with performing three planned de-orbit maneuvers. The HTV-1 is expected to reenter the earth's atmosphere at 6:26 a.m. November 2, 2009; that will mark the end of this mission.

The next HTV-1 Mission update will be posted on October 30, with coverage on the HTV-1's unberthing operations.

*All times are Japan Standard Time (JST. UTC + 9 hours)