SP-4221 The Space Shuttle Decision

Comparison of types of orbiter. The straight-wing design has low lift, L/D = 0.5. It achieves little crossrange, but its re-entry is brief and limits the heating rate. The delta-wing orbiter has high lift, L/D = 1.7, and achieves large crossrange. But its re-entry is prolonged and imposes both a high heating rate and a high total heat. (NASA)

Comparison of types of orbiter. The straight-wing design has low lift, L/D = 0.5. It achieves little crossrange, but its re-entry is brief and limits the heating rate. The delta-wing orbiter has high lift, L/D = 1.7, and achieves large crossrange. But its re-entry is prolonged and imposes both a high heating rate and a high total heat. (NASA)

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