NASA Shuttle Program and DoD Requirements

By the end of the 1960s, NASA had achieved the monumental task of landing men on the moon, but faced budget constraints. To continue space exploration, NASA envisioned a reusable spacecraft. They partnered with the Department of Defense, which had specific requirements for the shuttle, including the ability to return after one orbit and launch large spy satellites. These requirements posed significant engineering challenges. Despite these hurdles, the collaboration secured funding from President Nixon in 1972, marking the beginning of the shuttle program.

What was one of the main reasons NASA needed a new solution for space exploration after the 1960s?

• The technology for moon missions was outdated.

• The moon missions were too successful.

• The cost of moon missions was too high.

• NASA wanted to explore Mars instead.

What was NASA's ambitious project in the early 1970s?

• Building a space station.

• Creating a reusable spaceship.

• Developing a new moon rocket.

• Launching a Mars rover.

Why did NASA need the support of the US Department of Defense for the shuttle program?

• To test military weapons in space.

• To use military astronauts.

• To secure funding and political support.

• To gain access to military technology.

What was one of the DoD's requirements for the space shuttle?

• It must be able to fly without a crew.

• It must return to a specific site after one orbit.

• It must be able to land on water.

• It must carry passengers to the moon.

What was the second major requirement from the DoD for the shuttle?

• Carrying nuclear weapons.

• Launching large spy satellites.

• Conducting scientific experiments.

• Transporting troops to space.

What was a significant engineering challenge in developing the shuttle?

• Creating a spacecraft that could land on water.

• Developing a new type of fuel.

• Building engines that could be reused.

• Designing a new type of space suit.

What was the purpose of the giant external tank in the shuttle design?

• To store food and supplies.

• To provide living quarters.

• To house the crew.

• To fuel the rocket engines.

What was the role of the solid rocket boosters in the shuttle's launch?

• To land the shuttle.

• To steer the shuttle.

• To power the shuttle in orbit.

• To provide initial thrust.

When did President Nixon approve funding for the shuttle program?

• 1969

• 1970

• 1971

• 1972

What marked the beginning of a new era in space exploration?

• The launch of the first satellite.

• The approval of the shuttle program.

• The first moon landing.

• The discovery of water on Mars.