Here’s a big idea: What if we could fly to space like we fly around the world? That’s not science fiction – that’s the reality of the Space Shuttle Program! From 1981 to 2011, space shuttles flew astronauts and payloads to space and then returned to Earth, like a plane returning to an airport. NASA used them for critical projects in a variety of ways, like launching satellites, servicing the Hubble Space Telescope, and helping build the International Space Station. On this episode, we’ll discuss the history and science of this one-of-a-kind spacecraft.

Have questions after the program? Tune in to our live chat on Thursday, April 15, at 1 pm to learn more about space shuttles!

STEM in 30 is the National Air and Space Museum’s webcast series for middle school students. Tune in every month to share the fascination of aviation and space with your students.

This program is made possible by the generous support of Boeing.