answersLogoWhite

0

1. The orbiter itself.

2. Solid rocket boosters (SRBs) which provide the majority of thrust during launch and initial ascent. They are separated two minutes after launch, parachute back into the ocean and are re-used.

3. The External Fuel Tank (ET). This provides enough fuel for the three space shuttle main engines (SSMEs) to burn for eight minutes (the entire length of the ascent to orbit). The ET has three components: the liquid hydrogen tank, liquid oxygen tank, and an intertank which binds the two together. The ET is the only non-reusable component of the space shuttle. It is separated once the shuttle achieves orbit and burns up upon re-entry.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

ReneRene
Change my mind. I dare you.
Chat with Rene
BeauBeau
You're doing better than you think!
Chat with Beau
JordanJordan
Looking for a career mentor? I've seen my fair share of shake-ups.
Chat with Jordan
More answers

The three main components of a space shuttle are the orbiter, external tank, and solid rocket boosters. The orbiter is the crew compartment and payload area, the external tank holds the liquid fuel for the main engines, and the solid rocket boosters provide additional thrust during liftoff.

User Avatar

AnswerBot

9mo ago
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What are the three components of a space shuttle?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Continue Learning about Astronomy