Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Boosters

The Space Shuttle's Solid Rocket Boosters (SRBs) are powerful engines designed to provide most of the thrust needed for launch. They are large, white, cylindrical solid-fuel rockets attached to the shuttle's external tank. When ignited, they generate a tremendous amount of force to lift the shuttle off the ground and through the atmosphere. After about two minutes, the boosters burn out and are jettisoned, falling into the ocean for recovery and reuse. The SRBs are crucial for boosting the shuttle into space, providing the initial energy needed to reach orbit before the orbiter continues on its mission.