Thread: Shuttle Enterprise arrives in NYC

what are the extra tail fins/planes for?

and have all transported shuttles worn that Bugatti bum?

Originally Posted by Pedro_The_Swift

what are the extra tail fins/planes for?

and have all transported shuttles worn that Bugatti bum?

The rear cover on the shuttle is there as protection the engines are removed before the ferry flight. ( it was for this flight so NASA say )

The 747 is one of two that NASA have used over the years the other was retired last year this one will follow once all the shuttles are relocated to new homes, the extended tail fins help to stabalise the aircraft in flight.

The position of the shuttle disturbs the airflow over and around the tail of the 747, the added winglets give the stability a back.
The shroud over the shuttle engines does a couple of things, it protects the shuttle engine exhaust cones and it cleans up the airflow reducing turbulance around the 747 tail.

Here you go some more pics

For those that may know what I'm talking about, I have never seen a photo of the jumbo piggybacking the shuttle flying "on the step" or flying in the rigging position. Can anyone of knowledge shed any light on the flying attitude of the jumbo while piggybacking?
Den

Well observed. Its usually around 15000 feet. Interesting the temp limit too. I wonder if that's the #1 limiting factor in all the limitations.



Airspeed limits with, and without an orbiter: 250 knots or Mach 0.6
Altitude: Typical cruise with orbiter, 13,000-15,000 ft; typical cruise unmated, 24,000-26,000 ft. Minimum temperature at altitude 15 degrees (F) (-9 degrees C)
Range: Typical mated, 1000 nautical miles (with reserves); maximum unmated, 5500 nautical miles


Source. NASA - NASA Dryden Fact Sheet - Shuttle Carrier Aircraft

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