Space shuttle (front and back views)

Space shuttle (front and back views)
Space shuttle (front and back view): reusable space vehicle used for travel between a space station and earth.
Rudder: part of the shuttle used for turning.
Cockpit window: part of the cockpit that lets the astronaut see outside.
Main engines: engines that enable the shuttle to enter and leave space.
Manoeuvring engine: part of the shuttle used for steering.
Tank: part of the shuttle containing stored fuel.
Wing: lift plane of the shuttle.
Solid rocket booster: solid-rocket booster.
Exterior tank: large tank attached to the orbiter.

Photo :

How's this for a truly awesome photo? Shown in the foreground is Space Shuttle Atlantis on Launch Pad A. The shuttle in the background is Endeavour, on Launch Pad B. Currently, both shuttles are locked and loaded for launch, should something go wrong up in space with the October 11 2008 Atlantis mission. As Tom explains over at his Astronomy Blog, having two shuttles on the pad at the same time is rare, but it is not a cause for concern. When the ISS is not available for rescue purposes, as it might not be for this mission, a second shuttle is made ready for a quick launch. What is sobering, however, is this image is potentially the last of its kind. The space shuttle program is scheduled for retirement in 2010, leaving little chance for similar shuttle family photos in the future.

Animation : Space Shuttle SRB seperation


Thanks to YouTube for allowing us to watch this video.

Objet virtuel : Space Shuttle SRB seperation


Thanks to YouTube for allowing us to watch this video.