Columbia’s Second Flight Proves the Practicality of the Space Shuttle
At a glance:
- Series: Great Events from History II: Science and Technology Series
- Categories: Science, Technology, Inventions, Aviation, Space Exploration
- Subcategories: Scientists, Astronomy, Astronomers, Cosmology
- Curriculum: American History 1951-present
- Geographical Location: United States
- Date: November 12-14, 1981
Article abstract: Circling above the globe, the world’s first reusable spacecraft opened the future to payloads and experimenters to whom space was previously inaccessible.
Summary of Event
The concept of a reusable spacecraft has been around for as long as there have been dreams of space flight. Thus, it was not surprising when the X-15 high-speed research aircraft program was developed in 1953. The X-15 would test the principles of launching a manned spacecraft such as a rocket and having it return to Earth and land like an airplane. The aircraft...
[The entire page is 2375 words long]
Join eNotes
Over 3,500 study guides, question and answer forums, literature criticism, reference content, and much more!
