(December 21, 2006)—The crew of the Discovery launched two satellites into space Thursday afternoon.

The satellites called, Atmospheric Neutral Density Experiment, were deployed from Discovery's payload bay.

The device will measure the density and composition of the low-Earth orbit atmosphere.

The data will be tracked from the ground and will be used to better predict the movement of objects in orbit.

Two other small satellites were deployed Wednesday night.

Crewmembers are busy stowing equipment and other items.

Later in the day, the crew will review landing procedures and stow the Ku-band antenna.

The seven astronauts are preparing for Friday's landing.

Discovery is scheduled to touch down at 2:56 p.m. CST Friday at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, although weather could force a change in plans.

The shuttle could also land at 4:32 p.m. in Florida or at 4:27 p.m., 6 p.m. or 7:36 p.m. at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

Landings are White Sands, N.M., which is not equipped to handle the shuttle, are possible at 4:27 p.m. and 6:02 p.m.

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