The Space Shuttle

Abstract

The Space Transportation System (STS) consisting of the Space Shuttle, Spacelab and the Upper Stages is described, together with the Shuttle s projected missions, test programs and costs. The Orbiter, due to be launched late in 1979, is roughly the size of a DC-9, with weight dry empty of about 75,000 kg, and is reusable, as are the two external fuel tanks. The shape and size of the cargo bay (unobstructed cylindrical compartment, 4.6 m in diameter and 18.3 m long), the engine structure (three rocket engines, fueled by liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen, each capable of developing 1,668,080 N of thrust), the atmospheric condition in the Orbiter s cabin at sea level pressure, the surface insulation material of coated silica-fiber tiles and reinforced carbon-carbon material with a protection capability of up to 1650 C are discussed in detail. The Spacelab, designed by ESA to fit in the Orbiter s cargo bay for scientific research, and the Upper Stages, intended for inserting payloads in high-energy earth orbits, are also analyzed, as are the two-frequency band communication systems and the on board hardware.