The Space Shuttle Program

The Space Shuttle Program was NASA's initiative to develop reusable spacecraft, allowing humans to travel to and from low Earth orbit efficiently. Starting in 1981, the program used orbiters like Atlantis and Discovery to carry astronauts, satellites, and supplies to space stations such as the ISS. The shuttles could launch like rockets, return by landing like airplanes, and be refurbished for multiple missions, reducing costs. Over 30 years, the program conducted 135 missions before concluding in 2011, advancing scientific research, satellite deployment, and international collaboration in space exploration.