Space science plans for the shuttle era.

Abstract

Three separate and distinct modes of using the space shuttle system have been identified. These modes include the boost of a spacecraft plus one or more propulsion stages into earth orbit or parking orbit, the establishment and maintenance of automated observatories in space, and the support of exploratory research and instrument development. Studies show that approximately 60% of all planned NASA missions require a shuttle third stage. Illustrations are presented to show how the largest spacecraft, Viking, and its propulsion system, Centaur, and a communications satellite, with an Agena stage to place it into a geostationary orbit, would fit into the shuttle. Results of the NASA Shuttle Sortie Workshop studies are discussed together with prospects of European cooperation in future workshop experiments.