2006-06-23 13:49:31 · 5 answers · asked by Fun and Games 4 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
Outdated is an understatement. The shuttle's plans were drawn up in the late 1960s. The main computer system is so outdated, it cannot be updated for a mission without it being totally wiped and having the code rewritten every time. Thing is, the shuttle exists and is usable. It costs less to use the existing technology than it would to build from scratch an entirely new vehicle. Instead of a new orbiter, research is pointing towards crew only vehicles and cargo only vehicles and the new space elevator technology. One of the purposes of the ISS was to be a build and launch from orbit platform.
2006-06-23 15:15:12 · answer #1 · answered by quntmphys238 6 · 3⤊ 1⤋
outdated technology? i believe most of us who has never seen the real shuttle (ie.up close) thinks space shuttle stays very much the same from time to time. all we did see is the hull, and some section of the cocpit.
let us focus on the cost: how much does it takes for one go? a couple of billion dollars? maybe space shuttle hasn't changed in so many ways from the way we see it. but to cut cost, which returns more profit, they have to go efficiently. i think this is where all the upgrades and technologies are. on the outside space shuttle hasn't changed (maybe) a bit. but on the inside, i think it's an advanced tech alright. why still use ol' computing power when daddy dual core's here. tech does help on systems like trajectory, communication, heading correction. maybe that's why they (space shuttles) don't blow that much anymore. LOL.
outdated? come on, man. they have the power and means to stay waaay updated.
hope this helps. peace.
2006-06-23 14:12:30 · answer #2 · answered by phaditama 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It was outdated the moment it took off.
Launching vertically is fine for a Goddard rocket but we should be launching horizontally in mid air as Bert Rutan so amply demonstrated.
Easier and FAR less fuel waste. But NASA seems to have an Oedipus complex. What was good enough for daddy seems to be good enough for them.
2006-06-23 14:56:16 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, it was designed and built many years ago and technology is rushing forward with advances.. the problem is.. you can't employ the latest advances because they are still unproven.
2006-06-23 14:10:24 · answer #4 · answered by ♥Tom♥ 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes
2006-06-23 14:49:41 · answer #5 · answered by Kristin D 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋