SOLAR SYSTEM

Detailed explanation-1: -The Space Shuttle is the world’s first reusable spacecraft, and the first spacecraft in history that can carry large satellites both to and from orbit.

Detailed explanation-2: -After the Columbia loss in 2003, the Columbia Accident Investigation Board report showed that STS was risky/unsafe, and due to the expense to make Shuttle safe, in 2004, President G.W.Bush announced (along with the VSE policy) that Shuttle would be retired in 2010 (after completing the ISS assembly).

Detailed explanation-3: -This decision left NASA in limbo, as they were suddenly dependent on the Russians for access to space. The remaining three space shuttles, Discovery, Endeavour, and Atlantis, are now museum pieces, as is the test orbiter Enterprise.

Detailed explanation-4: -Examples of reusable spacecraft are spaceplanes (such as the Space Shuttle orbiters and the Dream Chaser) and space capsules like the SpaceX Dragon. Such spacecraft need mechanisms to prevent the disintegration of the spacecraft and its occupants/cargo during reentry.

Detailed explanation-5: -The Space Shuttle was the world’s first reusable space vehicle. The orbiter, its 3 main engines, and twin solid rocket boosters could be refurbished and flown again. More than 800 astronauts rode on 135 shuttle missions from 1981 to 2011.

Detailed explanation-6: -FIRST REUSABLE SPACECRAFT. The Space Shuttle made its debut in 1981 as the U.S. launch vehicle for human spaceflight in Earth orbit. During its design, construction, and early operation, the Space Shuttle was intended to be an economical replacement for expendable launch vehicles that are used only once.