Live at KSC: Astronauts on way to launch pad

LIVE IMAGES: The images above are from live video feeds in the Launch Complex 39 area at Kennedy Space Center. They will automatically refresh to the most up-to-the-minute image every 30 seconds.

Endeavour astronauts are riding to launch pad 39A to board Endeavour for the third time in four days.

The crew waved and offered thumbs up to crowds of well-wishers outside the Operations and Checkout Building at Kennedy Space Center, where crew quarters are located.

Then they began a nine-mile drive to the pad, escorted by armed guards. The convoy usually includes a helicopter, but not today. The crew should reach the pad in less than 30 minutes.

In addition to the Endeavour astronauts, the van carries Chief Astronaut Steve Lindsey, who will soon begin flying weather reconnaissance, and a few other managers who will get out during a stop in fron of the Launch Control Center.

Also inside, one member of the seven-person closeout crew who will help the astronauts strap into their seats. The other six are already stationed at the "white room" where Endeavour's crew hatch is located.