STS-130 mission's astronauts to ISS in visit in Italy

Four months ago they were into the orbit at around 340 km far from terrestrial surface to install on the ISS (International Space Station) the Node 3 (Tranquillity) and the Cupola, the last two "Jewels" of the Made in Italy for the Space. Now they are in Italy, invited by the Italian Space Agency (ASI).
 
Nicholas Patrick, Kay Hire and Terry Virtis, three of six members of the STS-130 mission ended last February 22, have landed in Italy on June 28, received by Salvatore Pignataro who has given to them the welcome on behalf of ASI. And in Italy they will stay until tomorrow. Turin the first destination, to meet the technicians team of the Thales Alenia Space that has realized the last two elements of the ISS on behalf of ESA (European Space Agency). For three US astronauts, who have visited the laboratory where the Cupola and Tranquillity have become reality, the meeting has represented a basic moment for a comparison.
 
Both modules have been designed, developed and integrated in the Turin's facility of Thales Alenia Space, that has had the responsibility of the preparation activity for launch and support to NASA through Altec Center, society established by Thales Alenia Space, Space Agency and Piedmont's public authorities.
 
The STS-130 Shuttle mission, launched last February 7 by NASA has represented an important passage not only for the ISS, but also for Italy. ISS is the greatest and ambitious space project created after the Moon conquest, is addressed towards its completion with the arrival of an another Italian piece on board: the PMM, the last permanent habitative module.