The Historic First Space Shuttle Launch: Columbia's Journey into Space

The first space shuttle launch of Columbia on April 12, 1981, marked a significant milestone in space exploration. With astronauts John Young and Robert Crippen aboard, the shuttle lifted off from Kennedy Space Center, witnessed by a large audience. The mission tested various systems, including payload doors and flight controls, while in orbit. Columbia's reentry involved complex maneuvers to reduce speed, facing extreme temperatures. Despite a successful mission, issues like missing tiles and landing gear damage highlighted the risks of space travel. The mission's success paved the way for future projects like the International Space Station.

What was the significance of the space shuttle Columbia's launch on April 12, 1981?

• It was the first international space mission.

• It was the first time humans landed on the Moon.

• It was the first manned mission to Mars.

• It marked the beginning of the USA's space shuttle program.

What percentage of the vehicle's liftoff thrust was provided by the solid rocket boosters?

• 100%

• 50%

• 71%

• 85%

What was the purpose of opening the payload doors once Columbia was in orbit?

• To allow astronauts to exit the shuttle.

• To expose the space radiator cooling system.

• To communicate with Earth.

• To release satellites into space.

What was one of the earliest technologies used by the shuttle for flight control?

• Analog flight control system.

• Manual flight control system.

• Hydraulic flight control system.

• Computerized flyby wire digital flight control system.

How did the shuttle Columbia begin its reentry process?

• By firing engines opposite to the orbital motion.

• By increasing its speed.

• By deploying parachutes.

• By firing engines in the direction of orbital motion.

What was a concerning event that occurred during Columbia's mission?

• The crew lost communication with Earth.

• The shuttle ran out of fuel.

• Missing tiles and damage on an engine pod were noticed.

• The shuttle failed to reach orbit.

What does the first shuttle flight remind us about space travel?

• It is only for scientists.

• It is completely safe.

• It is still perilous.

• It is no longer necessary.