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Questions and Answers
What are the three main pieces of a space shuttle?
How does a space shuttle land?
How tall is a space shuttle on its launch pad?
What materials are used to make the parts of a space shuttle?
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How does the orbiter return to Earth after a mission?
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What is the function of the ceramic tiles on the orbiter?
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What are the moving flaps on the back of the wings of the orbiter called?
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What is stored in the orbiter during a space shuttle mission?
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How many pieces make up a space shuttle according to the text?
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What are the wings and tail of the orbiter made of?
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What is the purpose of the external fuel tank in a space shuttle?
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Why are the tiles on the orbiter of a space shuttle slightly different shaped from each other?
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What are the wings and tail of the orbiter primarily made of?
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What is the function of the moving flaps called elevons on the back of the wings of the orbiter?
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What happens to the external fuel tank after it has supplied fuel for the rocket engines?
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How does a space shuttle take off from Earth?
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Why does the orbiter return to Earth like a glider?
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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.
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Description
Test your knowledge about the parts and features of a space shuttle. Learn about its components, materials, and dimensions.
