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Typical Space Shuttle flight operations, including launch/insertion, on-orbit operations, de-orbit, and ground turnaround, are summarized. The orbiter, main engine, and solid rocket boosters will be reusable. The Shuttle will be able to abort ascent and return the orbiter plus payload to the launch site if necessary. Mission capabilities include a 7-30 day duration, crew of 4-7 (with 1-4 payload specialists), and 14,500-29,500 kg payloads. Payload accommodations, including cabin, crew provisions, pointing and position stability, thermal constraints, electric power, communications, payload deployment and retrieval, contamination control, and kits for extended missions, are considered. The Thermal Protection System, utilizing pyrolized carbon and silica tiles, is described. The Space Shuttle Main Engine design and performance are considered and compared to those of the J-2 engine used on Saturn/Apollo missions.

Recent design alterations and refinements in the Space Shuttle program are considered with particular attention to the present baseline Shuttle configurations, performance characteristics, mission profiles, and flight and ground operations. Hardware and software development and testing, propulsion systems, entry trajectory events, and payload capability are covered. The refined Space Shuttle system design is characterized as one reflecting firm technical and economic considerations. Systems development is well under way, with all major contractors progressing on schedule.