Space Shuttle Missions: A Comprehensive 30-Year Summary (1981-2011)

Dive into the spectacular three-decade history of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. This article presents a deep dive into the Space Transportation System (STS), highlighting its groundbreaking achievements, challenges, and lasting legacy.

NASA's Dedication to Space Exploration

Since its founding, NASA has been committed to advancing aeronautics and space science. The NASA Scientific and Technical Information (STI) Program Office plays a crucial role in maintaining this dedication.

Accessing NASA's STI Program

• Home Page: http://www.sti.nasa.gov
• E-mail: [email protected]
• Fax: (301) 621-0134
• Telephone: (301) 621-0390
• Address: NASA Access Help Desk, NASA Center for AeroSpace Information, 7115 Standard, Hanover, MD 21076-1320

Exploring the Space Shuttle Missions Summary

This document, initially an informal Mission Operations book, has been updated since STS-1, providing a convenient reference for flight data from all Space Shuttle missions. It contains invaluable data and photographs, capturing the essence of each mission.

What You'll Find Inside

• "As-flown" mission data: Compiled from flight support sources for ascent, on-orbit events, and descent phases.
• Specific vehicle configuration: Payload details, flight crew, and flight directors for each mission.
• Mission Highlights: Detailed information, especially for missions related to the International Space Station assembly.
• Pertinent Photos: Visual documentation of each mission's significant moments.

The MOD Emblem: A Symbol of Teamwork and Excellence

Developed during the Apollo program, the Mission Operations Directorate (MOD) emblem represents the team's contribution to manned space flight. Updated over the years to reflect advancements in the space program, it is a constant reminder of the dedication, teamwork, and vigilance required for space exploration.

Key Elements of the MOD Emblem:

• Sigma (∑): Represents the entire mission team, highlighting the collective effort.
• Shuttle Launch: Symbolizes the dynamism of space and the quest to explore the universe.
• Four Stars: Stand for discipline, morale, toughness, and competence.
• International Space Station: Signifies a permanent human presence in space for research and development.
• Earth: Represents our home and the continuous support provided by manned and unmanned spacecraft.
• Houston Star: Indicates the home of U.S. human spaceflight operations.
• Comet: Honors those who sacrificed their lives for space exploration, with seventeen stars representing fallen astronauts.

The emblem's motto, "RES GESTA PER EXCELLENTIAM"—"Achieve through Excellence"—embodies the commitment to craftsmanship and perseverance required to advance space exploration.

The Reusable Space Shuttle: A New Era in Space Utilization

The Space Shuttle Vehicle (SSV) was the world’s first reusable spacecraft, comprising a reusable Orbiter Vehicle, two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs), and an expendable External Tank (ET). This innovative system allowed for a variety of missions in low Earth orbit, revolutionizing space travel.

Capabilities of the Space Shuttle System:

• Manned payload bay laboratory science: Facilitating groundbreaking research in space.
• Deployment and servicing of payloads: Deploying satellites and performing crucial maintenance.
• Support to space activities: Including rescue, repair, maintenance, assembly, and docking missions.
• International Space Station (ISS) Support: Playing a vital role in the assembly, manning, and support of the ISS.

Memories and Reflections on the Shuttle Program

Christopher C. Kraft, Jr. First Flight Director, JSC Center Director 1972 - 1982

The Space Shuttle had a spectacular 30-year career, marked by intense and productive activities in space. This reusable launch system significantly reduced the cost of transporting humans and satellites into low earth orbit.

Bob (Crip) Crippen PLT STS-1, and CDR STS-7, STS-41C & STS-41g KSC Center Director 1992 - 1995

The Shuttle is the most fantastic spaceship ever built and likely will be for the foreseeable future. Despite the tragedies, the program accomplished wondrous feats, including critical DOD missions and the construction of the International Space Station.

Brewster H. Shaw, Jr. PLT STS-9 and CDR STS-61B & STS- 28 Space Shuttle Program Mgr 1993 -1995 VP & GM Space Exploration Boeing Houston

The Space Shuttle was the most innovative and capable human-rated space launch system ever created. It established the United States as a leader in human space flight technology and made access to low-Earth orbit relatively routine.

Conclusion

The Space Shuttle Program, despite its challenges, remains a monumental achievement in space exploration. Its legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers.