Space Shuttle: Parts and Features
17 Questions
4 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What are the three main pieces of a space shuttle?

  • The orbiter, the capsule, and the external fuel tank
  • The orbiter, the engine, and the booster rockets
  • The orbiter, the external fuel tank, and the booster rockets (correct)
  • The capsule, the external fuel tank, and the booster rockets

    • How does a space shuttle land?

  • It lands on a runway like an airplane (correct)
  • It lands vertically like a rocket
  • It lands using a parachute
  • It lands in water like a boat

    • How tall is a space shuttle on its launch pad?

  • 66 meters
  • 36 meters
  • 46 meters
  • 56 meters (correct)

    • What materials are used to make the parts of a space shuttle?

    <p>Metal, plastic, glass, and ceramics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the orbiter return to Earth after a mission?

    <p>By gliding with the help of wings and tail</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the ceramic tiles on the orbiter?

    <p>To shield the orbiter from intense heat during reentry into Earth's atmosphere</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the moving flaps on the back of the wings of the orbiter called?

    <p>Elevons</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is stored in the orbiter during a space shuttle mission?

    <p>The payload or cargo</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many pieces make up a space shuttle according to the text?

    <p>Three main pieces</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the wings and tail of the orbiter made of?

    <p>Metal ribs and spars</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the external fuel tank in a space shuttle?

    <p>To supply fuel for the rocket engines</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are the tiles on the orbiter of a space shuttle slightly different shaped from each other?

    <p>To improve the aerodynamics of the orbiter during re-entry</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the wings and tail of the orbiter primarily made of?

    <p>Metal ribs and spars</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the moving flaps called elevons on the back of the wings of the orbiter?

    <p>To steer the orbiter as it glides back to Earth</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to the external fuel tank after it has supplied fuel for the rocket engines?

    <p>It burns up in Earth's atmosphere</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does a space shuttle take off from Earth?

    <p>By launching vertically like a rocket</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why does the orbiter return to Earth like a glider?

    <p>To reduce wear and tear on the orbiter</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Key Components of a Space Shuttle

    • Main pieces include the orbiter, solid rocket boosters, and external fuel tank.

    Landing Procedure

    • A space shuttle lands by gliding to a runway, similar to a glider, utilizing aerodynamic lift.

    Dimensions

    • The height of a space shuttle on its launch pad is approximately 184 feet (56 meters).

    Construction Materials

    • Parts are made from various materials, including aluminum, titanium, and specialized composites designed for high heat.

    Orbiter's Return

    • The orbiter returns to Earth by re-entering the atmosphere, followed by a controlled glide to landing.

    Ceramic Tiles

    • Ceramic tiles protect the orbiter from extreme heat during re-entry, absorbing and dissipating heat effectively.

    Elevons

    • The moving flaps on the back of the wings are called elevons, which control the pitch and roll during flight.

    Payload Storage

    • The orbiter stores scientific equipment, crew supplies, and other payloads needed for missions.

    Configuration of the Shuttle

    • A total of three main components comprise a space shuttle: orbiter, boosters, and fuel tank.

    Wing and Tail Composition

    • The wings and tail are primarily constructed from lightweight, high-strength materials such as aluminum alloys.

    External Fuel Tank Function

    • The external fuel tank provides the necessary fuel for the rocket engines during launch and is jettisoned after use.

    Variation in Tile Shapes

    • Tiles are slightly different in shape to fit the unique contours of the orbiter's surface for optimal thermal protection.

    Purpose of Elevons

    • Elevons assist in maneuvering the shuttle's flight by altering aerodynamic forces, stabilizing and controlling descent.

    Post-Use of the Fuel Tank

    • After supplying fuel, the external fuel tank is detached and typically falls into the ocean, where it disintegrates.

    Launch Mechanism

    • The space shuttle takes off using the combined power of the orbiter's engines and solid rocket boosters for additional thrust.

    Gliding Return

    • The orbiter returns like a glider to conserve energy and allow for a controlled descent and landing on a runway.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Description

    Test your knowledge about the parts and features of a space shuttle. Learn about its components, materials, and dimensions.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Open
    Browser
    Browser