Nasa 747

[h2opunk1822]

I came across this pic, not sure if its true or not but it gave me a good laugh.

[PhilDernerJr]

That's pretty funny. Does anyone know the details of how the shuttle actually attaches to the 747 or the rocket boosters? I don't see any latches and always wondered about that.

[Matt Molnar]

That's pretty funny. Does anyone know the details of how the shuttle actually attaches to the 747 or the rocket boosters? I don't see any latches and always wondered about that.

Duct tape.

[moose135]

Does anyone know the details of how the shuttle actually attaches to the 747 or the rocket boosters? I don't see any latches and always wondered about that.

There are three attachment struts on the external tank, which connect to the bottom of the shuttle, one on the centerline forward, and two near the tail. These are the same points on the shuttle which are used to attach it to the struts on the 747 shown above. The two booster rockets attach to the sides of the external tank, not the orbiter. When the shuttle is launched, explosive bolts are used to sever the attachments from the struts on the tank. I don't know if there is any type of "door" that closes over the attachment points on the bottom of the shuttle for aerodynamic and thermal protection during re-entry.

This diagram of the external tank gives you a better idea of the arrangement of the struts on the tank:
http://science.ksc.nasa.gov/shuttle/tec ... s/et_1.jpg

Actually, here is a high-res NASA photo of the underside of the nose of the orbiter, taken from the ISS. I beleive the attachment point is the small circle just aft of the nose gear doors.

http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/gallery/ima ... e79951.jpg

[h2opunk1822]

Damn.. looks like a small connection, thats one thing ive always wondered too.. i knew about the explosive deconnection on the tanks.. but when she lands at anywhere other then the cape how does it stay on.. im not seeing anything in that blown up pic?..

i know its not rocket science :lol:

[cancidas]

Actually, here is a high-res NASA photo of the underside of the nose of the orbiter, taken from the ISS. I beleive the attachment point is the small circle just aft of the nose gear doors.

it looks like the round mark aft of the gear doors is where the tank/ transporter attaches to the shuttle. i'm wondering if it's a pressure plate that closes when there isn't a connector in it, kinda like access steps on the side of some helicopters.