What force allows a space shuttle to stay in orbit?

Any slower than that and the spacecraft will “fall” back to earth. In order for a spacecraft to remain in orbit the two forces on it must be balanced, the force of gravity pulling it toward the center of the Earth, and the “centripetal” force which is a reaction to its circular motion.

What type of control surface does a space shuttle use?

For control, each wing has an “elevon”. An elevon is a combination of an elevator and an aileron. On an airplane, the elevator controls the motion of pitch (nose up, nose down).

Why do astronauts in orbit in the space shuttle seem to float?

If 90 percent of Earth’s gravity reaches the space station, then why do astronauts float there? The answer is because they are in free fall. In a vacuum, gravity causes all objects to fall at the same rate. Since they are all falling together, the crew and objects appear to float when compared with the spacecraft.

Does spacecraft need fuel in orbit?

The propellant is primarily needed to get the spacecraft into orbit, not to stay in orbit. When about half the propellant is burned, the bottom half of the rocket is jettisoned.

How does an object stay in orbit?

How Do Objects Stay in Orbit? An object in motion will stay in motion unless something pushes or pulls on it. An object’s momentum and the force of gravity have to be balanced for an orbit to happen. If the forward momentum of one object is too great, it will speed past and not enter into orbit.

Does space shuttle glide to earth?

The Space Shuttle flies as a glider during reentry and landing. The shuttle was designed with a low L/D ratio (~ 1) because during the descent the spacecraft must be slowed from about 17,300 mph to about 250 mph at landing.

Why does the space shuttle orbit backwards?

When the Shuttle prepares to depart it’s position orbiting the Earth, the first thing it must do is slow down. The Shuttle is slowed by firing the two smallest of the five nozzles on the back of the craft. The deceleration provided ‘flips’ the Space Shuttle over by standing it on end, which puts the belly down.