Once AMS is working in the test beam, we are almost ready for launch. A chartered 747 (although probably not a Super Guppy like this picture) will carry AMS from Switzerland to Florida. There, we have to convince NASA that we are ready to go to ISS.
We will run through a rigorous series of communication tests, making sure that AMS can send data through ISS as designed. We will test our operations procedures, making sure that we can turn AMS's systems on and off and whatever via the ISS telemetry.
We will go through a few mechanical fit tests, making sure that AMS will latch securely into the Shuttle and onto ISS. We will dangle from a giant crane, which will confirm that we weigh less than 14,800 lbs. We will sit in a thermal vacuum chamber, to demonstrate that the detector's temperature can be stabilized in the harsh conditions of space.
After all of these checkouts (which take many months), AMS is ready to go. We will fill up our gas system with xenon and CO2, fill the magnet tank with liquid helium. A special crane or lift will stick AMS into the Shuttle cargo bay. The Shuttle drives over to the launch pad atop the "crawler". At the launch pad, the Shuttle's cargo bay doors are opened into a special clean room, where technicians make final adjustments and AMS's magnet team will keep topping off the helium tank.
AMS will remain plugged in and online until about 80 hours before launch, while our team keeps an eye on temperatures, pressures, and general health. Just before the 80 hour cutoff, we will top off the helium tank one more time, detach our helium hoses and electrical cables, and say good-bye. The shuttle bay doors will be closed soon and AMS will wait in the dark until launch.