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

Dive into a detailed archive of NASA's Space Shuttle Program with this comprehensive summary of missions from 1981 to 2011. Explore mission objectives, crew details, and key accomplishments that defined three decades of space exploration.

What's Inside This Space Shuttle Mission Summary?

This NASA Technical Memorandum (NASA/TM–2011–216142) offers an in-depth look at the Space Shuttle Program, including:

• "As-flown" mission data: Compiled from various flight support sources detailing ascent, on-orbit activities, and descent phases.
• Vehicle configuration: Specific details about the Space Shuttle used for each mission.
• Payload information: What each mission transported into space.
• Flight crew roster: Names of the astronauts on each mission.
• Flight directors: Key personnel overseeing each mission.
• Mission highlights: Notable events and accomplishments of each flight.
• Photos: Pertinent images that provide a visual record of each mission.

Why Does This Space Shuttle Summary Matter?

This document serves as:

• Historical Reference: A detailed archive of the Space Shuttle Program's achievements and challenges.
• Educational Resource: Information about space travel, engineering, and the complexities of manned space missions.
• Tribute to Innovation: Highlights of technological advancements required to make the Space Shuttle a reality.

Key Insights From the Space Shuttle Program

The Space Shuttle Program pushed the boundaries of technology and human achievement. Here's why it was so impactful:

• Reusable Spacecraft Pioneering: The Space Shuttle was the world’s first reusable spacecraft, reducing the costs of space travel.
• Technological Advancements: Development required innovations in rocket engines, materials, autonomous control, and manufacturing.
• International Collaboration: The program facilitated participation from the Allied aerospace community.
• Scientific Breakthroughs: Payloads delivered to orbit revolutionized knowledge of our solar system and the universe.
• International Space Station Construction: The program made possible the construction of the International Space Station (ISS).

In Remembrance

The document also serves as a reminder of the inherent risks of spaceflight, with a dedication to the astronauts who lost their lives in service. The emblem includes seventeen stars which pay tribute to our fallen astronauts.

These symbols recognize the risks inherent to space flight.

How to Access the Full Report

For more information about the NASA STI Program Office, see the following:

• Access the NASA STI Program Home Page: http://www.sti.nasa.gov
• E-mail your question via the internet: [email protected]
• Fax your question to the NASA Access Help Desk: (301) 621-0134
• Telephone the NASA Access Help Desk: (301) 621-0390
• **Write to:**NASA Access Help Desk, NASA Center for AeroSpace Information, 7115 Standard, Hanover, MD 21076-1320

Space Shuttle Mission Highlights by Decade

The 1980s: Launching a New Era

• STS-1 (1981): Columbia's maiden voyage marked the beginning of reusable spacecraft.
• STS-31 (1990): Deployment of the Hubble Space Telescope, revolutionizing astronomy.

The 1990s: Scientific Exploration and Collaboration

• STS-68 (1994): Studied Earth's environment, contributing to our knowledge of climate change.
• STS-71 (1995): First docking with the Russian space station Mir, fostering international cooperation.

The 2000s: Building the International Space Station

• STS-92 (2000): Assembled the International Space Station (ISS), paving the way for long-term space habitation.
• STS-103 (1999): Serviced the Hubble Space Telescope.
• STS-130 (2010): Continued expansion of the ISS, adding crucial modules for research.

2011: End of an Era

• STS-135 (2011): Atlantis' final mission closed the Space Shuttle Program after 30 years of service.

The Emblem - A Deep Dive

The Mission Operations Directorate (MOD) emblem encapsulates the spirit and dedication of the teams behind the Space Shuttle Program. Here's a breakdown of its symbolism:

• Sigma (Σ): Represents the entire mission team, including flight controllers, instructors, and support staff.
• Shuttle Launch: Symbolizes the dynamic nature of space exploration.
• Four Stars: Embody the core principles of Discipline, Morale, Toughness, and Competence.
• International Space Station: Represents a permanent human presence in space used for research.
• Earth: Represents Earth, which will forever be serviced by spacecraft.
• Star over Houston: Honors the home of U.S. human spaceflight operations.
• Comet: Symbolizes those who have given their lives for space exploration.
• Moon and Mars: Signify our future goals in space exploration

Space Shuttle: A Lasting Legacy

The Space Shuttle Program leaves behind a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and scientific discovery. This comprehensive summary provides a valuable resource for understanding the program's impact on space exploration and technology.