Visit this page on the NASA site to learn more about the Space

Shuttle 747 ferry. http://www.nasa.gov/externalflash/shuttlecarrier/

Transporting the Shuttle

While the Shuttle can fly in space, it wasn’t built to fly on Earth. It only glides. This is why it needs to piggyback on the 747.

Transporting the Shuttle

NASA outfitted two 747 jets for the sole purpose of transporting Space Shuttles from one location to another on Earth.

Transporting the Shuttle

Because its only “passenger” is the shuttle, the inside of the 747 has no seats or any other equipment normally found inside a passenger plane.

Transporting the Shuttle

The Shuttle is anchored in place on top of the 747, a process that takes hours to complete.

Transporting the Shuttle

So, the combined weight of the 747 and the Shuttle is made up of two fixed quantities, the individual weights of the two aircraft.

Transporting the Shuttle

With a passenger plane, there are more parts involved, some with variable weights.

Transporting the Shuttle

First, there is the 747 itself, as well as the seats and other equipment to hold the passengers and luggage.

Transporting the Shuttle

Next, there are two variables: (1) the number of passengers, with a maximum of 500; (2) the combined weight of the passengers and baggage.

Transporting the Shuttle

To compare the weights of the two 747s, we need to make some assumptions.

Transporting the Shuttle

To compare the weights of the two 747s, we need to make some assumptions.

• Assumptions:• Full capacity (500 seats)• Average weight of a

passenger: 100 lbs• Average weight of baggage:

150 lbs

Transporting the Shuttle

Comparing the weights of the two 747s, you can see that the one carrying the Shuttle weighs less. (Note: The weight of fuel isn’t included, since it would be common to both scenarios.)

747 with Shuttle

747 with Passengers

747 300,000 450,000 Shuttle 165,000 Passengers 50,000 Luggage 75,000

Total 465,000 575,000

Transporting the Shuttle

Not only does the 747 with the Shuttle weigh less, it flies at about half the altitude, meaning much less energy required. It also travels at a slower speed, which also saves fuel.

Transporting the Shuttle

A passenger with one carry-on, itself, arrives home.