Browse Archive
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If Walls Could Talk
This unassuming little beachside cottage stands as a silent witness to space history.
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Shuttle Computers Navigate Record of Reliability
The space shuttles main computer system is well-regarded for its reliability, even though it runs on machines far from cutting-edge.
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Lighting the Way Home
Kennedy's Shuttle Landing Facility xenon lights shine brightly for a safe touchdown.
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'Suit Yourself' is Easier Said Than Done
On launch day, a space shuttle astronaut's first challenge isn't handling the force of liftoff or adjusting to microgravity -- it's getting dressed.
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Red Water Sausages?
Uncovering the mystery of the rose-colored rectangles below the Solid Rocket Boosters
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More to KSC Runway Than Shuttle Ops
Air traffic controllers at the space shuttle's runway deal with exotic aircraft, race cars and even stray pilots on a day-to-day basis.
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What Makes a Launch Director (Part One)
Calm, confident and careful still define the people who give the ultimate "go" to launch a spacecraft.
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What Makes a Launch Director (Part Two)
Away from the Firing Room, the Shuttle Launch Director represents the men and women who help put people in space.
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Setting the Date: NASA's Launch Window Planners
NASA engineers make sure the heavens are aligned for a Space Shuttle launch.
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Part Office, Part Sanctuary, All Crew Quarters
The Astronaut Crew Quarters has served as a hotel and business center for astronauts since the first Gemini flights.
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Modified Jet Stands in for Landing Orbiter
When it's time to teach an astronaut how to land an orbiter, a modified business jet fits the bill.
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Making a List and Checking It Twice
No, it's not Santa; it's Troy Mann, the lead stowage technician for the space shuttle.
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Explosives are His Specialty
Larry Taylor and his team test hundreds of explosives that are installed on the space shuttle.
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New Tiles Mean Better Safety
Orbiters to receive next-generation insulation tile.
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The World's Greatest Piggyback Ride
Customized 747 aircraft have the critical job of carrying space shuttle orbiters across the country.