The Afterburn: Reaching for the Stars Even after the main engines are throttled back and the external tank is gone, the shuttle continues to accelerate. To achieve a stable low Earth orbit, the shuttle must reach a staggering speed of approximately 17,500 miles per hour (28,000 kilometers per hour).
Understanding the Speed of Space Shuttle Launch and How It Reaches Orbital Velocity
Passengers inside would experience forces up to 3 times the force of gravity (3 Gs), pressing them firmly into their seats. This phase is a stark contrast to the violent initial minutes; it is a calm, precise adjustment in the vacuum of space.
Once the tank is jettisoned, the shuttle relies on its Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) engines to fine-tune its trajectory and circularize its orbit, completing the transition from launch vehicle to spacecraft. The focus here is on controlled power rather than immediate velocity.
Breaking Down the Speed of Space Shuttle Launch Explained
Measuring the Climb: G-Forces and Velocity As the shuttle clears the tower, the rate of acceleration increases dramatically. To manage this stress, the shuttle executes a pitch maneuver, turning horizontally.
More About Speed of space shuttle launch
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