Space Shuttle On-Orbit Propulsive Capabilities

NASAs space shuttle orbiter is the premier manned spacecraft. The space shuttle orbiter allows astronauts to perform many tasks such as docking with space stations, deploying satellites, rendezvousing with and repairing the Hubble Space Telescope, etc. The shuttle orbiter would never be able to perform such tasks without its rocket propulsion system. Whenever the orbiter makes changes to its orbit, or performs orbital maneuvers, it uses propellant from its on board orbital propulsion system. The ability to perform such orbital maneuvers depends on the orbital mechanics, spacecraft dynamics, and rocket propulsions. The purpose of this paper is to gain insight into the propulsive capabilities of the space shuttle orbiter. The analysis will reveal the limits of the space shuttles ability to perform multiple orbital maneuvers on any given mission.