KENNEDY SPACE CENTER The U.S./Russian crew of Atlantis will return to Earth this week after outfitting the International Space Station for its first long-duration mission and wiring its exterior. As the ISS pace accelerates, NASA has just signed a pioneering commercial biotechnology agreement for private-sector medical research involving the ISS and related ground efforts.

WASHINGTON With first flight of a Joint Strike Fighter imminent, the selection of a prime contractor—a decision expected to significantly enhance the reputation and financial rewards of the winning company—is now expected to slide about five months to September 2001, the end of the next fiscal year.

Washington The Pentagon’s missile defense office expresses full confidence in the vigor and realism of its test program, but outside experts say it does not pass muster. Combined ground and flight tests have already demonstrated about 93% of the limited national missile defense (NMD) system’s crucial engagement functions, as well as the ability to integrate the system’s various elements, claims Air Force Lt. Gen. Ronald T. Kadish, director of the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization (BMDO).