This model represents the final Space Shuttle design that emerged from NASA-industry studies in 1969-1972. This design was selected as the best combination of a reusable orbiter, a disposable external tank, and two recoverable solid rocket boosters after it became evident that a completely reusable system would be too large and too costly. The model depicts the orbiter Columbia and the Shuttle "stack" poised for launch on the mobile launch platform and crawler transporter. Created by Eric Long Date Created 05/23/2016 Source Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Keywords Human Spaceflight; Missions; Models; Space; Space Shuttle Rights and Restrictions CC0
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.