SpaceRef - Exploration and Missions - Human Missions - Space Shuttle

SpaceRef - Exploration and Missions - Human Missions - Space Shuttle - Space Shuttle Upgrades

Space Shuttle Upgrades at NASA MSFC - NASA is currently evaluating and implementing a variety of upgrades to the Space Shuttle to make it a safer, cheaper and more capable spacecraft. Studies currently underway investigate the feasibility of replacing the existing first stage propulsion system, the four segment Redesigned Solid Rocket Motors, with new boosters early in the next decade. Potential replacements are new, improved partially reusable, five segment solid rocket boosters or new, totally reusable first stages powered with liquid booster engines.

Upgrading the Space Shuttle - This 1999 report by the National Research Council Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board Committee on Space Shuttle Upgrades resulted from a request by NASA to examine the agency's plans for further upgrades to the space shuttle system. The NRC was asked to assess NASA's method for evaluating and selecting upgrades and to conduct a top-level technical assessment of proposed upgrades.