Re: Retire Shuttle on orbit.

Rich Godwin wrote:
I've had this nagging idea at the back of my head for some time. (no
it's not a tick)
When NASA is finally finished with the Shuttle fleet (if it ever is)
why is it not possible to retire the fleet ON ORBIT instead of in a
museum?
As long as we could refuel the RCS and OMS system regularly we'd have
not only a safe haven for ISS, but also three highly capable vehicles
that are not going to be matched in space in our lifetimes.
I realize that there are problems, not the least of which is NASA's
McDonalds style of business-throw it away after use.
Recharge the RCS & OMS on orbit when necessary
Park it reasonably close to ISS
For power recharge the fuel cells OR place solar panels all over the
thing.

They wouldn't have to come back again, so they'd be relatively safe and
then you'd have what it was always supposed to be...a space truck!


Wouldn't they still require a lot of maintenance to remain spaceworthy? What would be the structural effects on them remaining in space for a long time?


--
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http://www.unclaimedmysteries.net

"Being an Auburn fan explains a lot about what is wrong with you, Unclaimed ... You didn't chose to address any of my post except this last little piece where I ridiculing you for being an idiot." - "Altie" on rec.sport.football.college, 2006
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Relevant Pages

  • Re: Retire Shuttle on orbit.
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  • Re: Retire Shuttle on orbit.
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