The Space Shuttle

The Space Shuttle was a reusable spacecraft used by NASA from 1981 to 2011 to transport astronauts and cargo between Earth and space. It consisted of three main parts: the orbiter (similar to an airplane with wings that carried astronauts), the external fuel tank, and solid rocket boosters. After launch, the shuttle would reach orbit, allowing astronauts to conduct experiments, repair satellites, or build space stations like the ISS. It could land like an airplane on a runway, making it a cost-effective way to access space repeatedly. The shuttle was a pioneering vehicle that advanced human space exploration and technology development.