1. What Makes Up the Space Shuttle? The space shuttle is the most complex machine ever created by human beings. The first shuttle was launched on April 12, 1981, and over 100 missions have been launched since then. The shuttle consists of three main parts:  Orbiter  External Tank  Solid Rocket Boosters

2. The Orbiter Three orbiters remain in service Wingspan 23.79 meters Length 37.24 meters Height 17.27 meters Payload 24,990 Kg

3. The External Tank Largest element of the shuttle Contains liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen Length 46.9 meters Capacity 2,000,000 liters Jettisoned 8.5 min. after launch

4. The Solid Rocket Boosters Provide 70% of launch thrust Reusable Jettisoned 125 sec. after launch Length 45.5 meters Thrust 14.7 million N (each)

5. Learn More About the Shuttle! Visit the following websites to learn more fascinating information about the space shuttle!  http://www.daviddarling.info/encyclopedia/ S/Space_Shuttle.html http://www.daviddarling.info/encyclopedia/ S/Space_Shuttle.html  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_shuttle http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_shuttle  http://science.howstuffworks.com/space- shuttle.htm http://science.howstuffworks.com/space- shuttle.htm