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Student Worksheet: Orbiter Control - Key
Back to Teacher Overview Outline
Directions: After reading Orbiter Control,
answer each question below.
| 1. |
Explain in your own words why the orbiter is a "true aerospace vehicle".
An aerospace vehicle is a craft that can not only fly "in the
air" (or atmosphere), but also in space without having to change
its form. The orbiter can do this.
|
| 2. |
Complete the chart below by naming the four basic control surfaces
and what motions each controls.
| Control Surface |
Motion Controlled |
| Elevons |
roll, pitch |
| Rudder |
yaw |
| Speed brake |
forward motion |
| Body flap |
pitch |
|
| 3. |
Why does the orbiter have wide S-turns as part of its descent flight
path?
The wide S-turns help to slow its speed during descent by generating
more drag with its positive pitch (nose up entry) and longer flight
path.
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| 4. |
Give the orbiter's fastest speed and slowest speed that it flies
during its landing.
Fastest speed: 28,000 km/h or 17,100 mph
Slowest speed: 350 km/h or 210 mph
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| 5. |
Why is the orbiter's nose pitched positively (up) during most of
its landing flight?
This exposes the widest part of the orbiter to the oncoming
airflow and generates more drag that slows its speed. It also concentrates
the heat encountered during the descent onto the heat shields located
on its underbelly. This protects the orbiter from burning up upon
reentry.
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