Journal of Astronomy and Space Sciences
- Volume 2 Issue 1
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- Pages.1-6
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- 1985
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- 2093-5587(pISSN)
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- 2093-1409(eISSN)
A New Era of Space Shuttle
- Sun Kyu Kim (Kia Institute of Research and Development, Kia Industria Co., Ltd)
- Published : 1985.06.01
Abstract
The U.S. Space Shuttle represents the beginning of a new era in transportation and is the critical element in the industrialization of the near-Earth-space. Most of its flights are dedicated to reducing costs launching commercial satellites. However, it provides a microgravity environment for processing unique and improved materials which is generating great interest in both civilian and military sectors. The space shuttle is also the necessary step in establishing a permanent space station which could host materials analysis laboratories and commercial processing facilities. This paper reviews the different elements of the space shuttle transportation system, a typical mission scenario, and discusses current activities in materials processing in space.
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