What was the Space Shuttle Enterprise used for?
Q: What was the Space Shuttle Enterprise used for?
A: The Space Shuttle Enterprise (OV-101) was used by NASA for testing of the space shuttles. It was built without engines and without the heat protection system needed for it to travel into space and return to the atmosphere.
Q: When did construction of the Enterprise begin?
A: Construction of the Enterprise began on June 4, 1974, and was completed on September 17, 1976.
Q: What tests were conducted with the shuttle?
A: Scientists wanted to test how the shuttle could be transported on top of a Boeing 747. They also did three test manned test flights with the shuttle still joined to the Boeing. When these tests were finished they did another five tests with the shuttle flying without engines like a glider. The pilots practiced landing at Edwards Airforce Base.
Q: Who piloted these test flights?
A: The pilots who piloted these test flights were astronaut Gordon Fullerton, Apollo 13 astronaut Fred Haise, Joe Engle and Dick Truly.
Q: What other tests were done after flight testing?
A: After flight testing, vibration tests were conducted at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.
Q: How was some of Enterprise's parts used after all its tests had been completed?
A: After all its tests had been completed, some parts of Enterprise were used in building other shuttles.
Q: Why is it called "Enterprise"?
A:The Enterprise was originally going to be named "Constitution", but many people wrote to President asking that it be named after Star Trek's spacecraft so it became known as "Enterprise".
