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PERFORMANCE
Takeoff distance, ground roll: 0 ft Takeoff distance over 50-ft obstacle: 0 ft Maximum demonstrated crosswind component: 15 kt Rate of climb (typical ascent profile at 130,000 ft): 132,000 fpm Orbit Altitude: 185 to 643 kilometers (115 to 400 statute miles) Orbit Velocity: 27,875 kph (17,321 mph) Lift-to-drag (glide) ratio —
Landing distance, ground roll (typical): 10,000 ft Landing distance, ground roll (minimum): 7,000 ft LIMITING AND RECOMMENDED AIRSPEEDS (ATMOSPHERIC) VLD (best glide speed), sea level: 185 kt (heavy) VA (design maneuvering speed): 185 kt (approx) VLE (max gear extended): 312 kt VLO (max gear operating): 312 kt VNE (never exceed): 333 kt VSO (stall, landing configuration): 150 kt DETAILED SPECIFICATIONS Length —
Height of Orbiter on runway: 17.27 meters (56.67 feet) Wingspan: 23.79 meters (78.06 feet) Weight —
Maximum cargo to orbit: 28,803 kilograms (63,500 pounds) CLIMB PARAMETERS
Solid Rocket Booster Separation: 2 minutes after launch External Tank Separation: 8.6 minutes after launch
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Specs for the Rockwell STS
Key Takeaways:
- The Space Shuttle is characterized by a unique flight profile, featuring a 0-foot ground roll for takeoff (vertical launch) and reaching orbit altitudes up to 400 miles at speeds around 17,321 mph.
- It launches with a massive liftoff weight of 4.5 million pounds, which is significantly reduced to 230,000 pounds for touchdown after shedding Solid Rocket Boosters and an External Tank during its rapid ascent.
- After its space mission, the Orbiter returns to Earth as an unpowered glider, requiring a typical landing ground roll of 10,000 feet, showcasing its dual nature as both a rocket and an aircraft.
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