FAST FACTS: The Emergency Egress System

Located 195 feet above the ground, at the same level on the fixed service structure as the orbiter access arm, is the emergency exit, or egress, system. It provides an escape route for personnel inside the orbiter or on the orbiter access arm.

The system includes seven baskets suspended from seven slidewires that extend from the fixed service structure to a landing zone 1,200 feet to the west. Each basket can hold up to three people. A braking system catch net and drag chain slow and then halt the baskets sliding down the wire approximately 55 miles per hour in about half a minute.

Also located in the landing zone is a bunker, with an M-113 armored personnel carrier stationed nearby.