Space Shuttle Enterprise

The Space Shuttle Enterprise (NASA Orbiter Vehicle Designation: OV-101) was the first shuttle built for NASA. It was constructed without engines or a functional heat shield and was therefore not capable of space operations without a refit. It was intended to be the second space shuttle to fly after the Space Shuttle Columbia even though Enterprise was built first; however, it was found to be cheaper to refit a test article (STA-099) into the Space Shuttle Challenger. Similarly, it was considered for refit to replace Challenger, but Space Shuttle Endeavour was built from spares instead.

Related Topics:
NASA - Orbiter Vehicle Designation - Shuttle - Heat shield - Space Shuttle ''Columbia'' - Space Shuttle ''Challenger'' - Space Shuttle ''Endeavour''

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