why does the space shuttle launch horizontally?

Answer 1

Herein lies your confusion. Although the initial launch takes place at a 90 degree angle to the ground the shuttle quickly begins to reduce that angle. After 20 seconds the shuttles trajectory is at only 78 degrees to earth.

When the shuttle is 100 km above the surface it's flight path levels out (horizontal) as it begins it's orbital insertion.

Answer 2

In order to achive maximum thrust velocity, the shuttle must be launched parpendicular to the surface of the earth (y direction). If launched at an angle, some of the thrust will be consumed in moving the shuttle in the x direction as well, which would be a waste.
Further more, the straight line distance between two points is the shortest. Thus the rocket would have to travel a smaller distance to get to the point where gravity nullifies if moving straight up, when compared to moving diagonally.
So it must be launched Vertically and not any other way.

Answer 3

because the from where it is, the earth is round and the shuttle is on a curve.
so it seems straight from the ground
yet it is horizontal in space!

Answer 4

space shuttles can move like both aeroplane & rockets......
the heavy shuttles are easier to launch horizontally than vertical
another thing is itz shape .........itz impotrant.

Answer 5

You got this one wrong.

It launches vertically, assisted by solid fuel booster rockets.

It lands horizonally, assisted by nothing. It is a glider

Answer 6

It doesn't, it launches vertically

Answer 7

how else do u want it to launch, upside down?

Answer 8

It doesn't... it's can only land horizontally.

Answer 9

dude its vertically da!!!!!! ok need think of my answer first of all.thank u for making me to think.can be a good astronomer!!!!!!!!1

Answer 10

if u really want to know the answer mail me
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