
Space Shuttle Challenger |
Maximum dynamic pressure, or max Q,
is the point when dynamic pressures on the space
shuttle are greatest. It occurs about one minute
after liftoff and at an altitude of 33,600 feet.
Burning
propellants from the space shuttle's main engines
reach a temperature of 6,000 degrees Fahrenheit,
which is hotter than the boiling point of iron.
Space
shuttle cockpits are equipped with special "wicket
tabs" to help astronauts feel and activate
controls if their vision becomes temporarily
blurred from acceleration or deceleration forces
during launch or re-entry.
A
shuttle pilot does not deploy the orbiter's
landing gear until the spacecraft reaches an
altitude of only 250 feet above ground level and
a speed of less than 345 mph.
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STS-51L January 28, 1986 |