In 30 seconds
Newman compares the Space Shuttle with newer reusable rocket stages and discusses potential cost and launch-frequency effects.
- 1ShuttleNewman recalls earlier reusable vehicles.
- 2CostsShe discusses potential savings.
- 3ControlShe admires precise landings.
Takeaways
- The shuttle was reusable but expensive.
- Recovery can potentially reduce costs.
- Precise landing requires sophisticated control.
Read the edited text by chapter
A history of reuse
In 2019, aerospace engineer Dava Newman describes reusable rockets as an exciting development and recalls that the Space Shuttle was also reusable.
In 2019, aerospace engineer Dava Newman describes reusable rockets as an exciting development and recalls that the Space Shuttle was also reusable.
She praises the shuttle’s engineering while noting that reuse alone did not make its operations inexpensive.
Recovering rocket stages
Newman discusses recovering rocket stages and says that potential cost savings could be significant; the percentage she mentions is a conditional estimate.
Newman discusses recovering rocket stages and says that potential cost savings could be significant; the percentage she mentions is a conditional estimate.
She expresses particular admiration for the control and dynamics required to return and land a rocket precisely.
Newman sees reusability as part of a shift toward lower costs and more frequent launches by organizations and nations.
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