space shuttle at takeoff

On takeoff, the space shuttle is made up of an orbiter, two rockets and an external fuel tank.

orbiter

The only part of the shuttle to fly in orbit; transports 13 tons of material and five to seven astronauts.

nozzle

The end portion of a rocket from which combustion gases escape, thereby creating the thrust needed to propel the craft.

solid rocket booster

Solid-fuel thruster that provides most of the lift during the first few minutes of flight, after which it separates.

booster parachute

Slows the rocket’s fall after it separates from the space shuttle some two minutes after takeoff.

external fuel tank

Contains the liquid fuel (oxygen and hydrogen) that supplies the three engines of the orbiter tail.