Perfectly working Space Shuttle!

[Christian365]

After two days of trial and error. I have finally come up with a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional! This is my first functional Space Shuttle design and it works like a dream (it also works exactly like the space shuttle itself) Although, unlike the space shuttle I removed the cargo bay doors and replaced it with fuel modules (primarily because I'm going to be using this to refuel my space stations). It can carry 1440+ units into low kerbin orbit. But the fuel modules can be replaced with cargo bay doors if I wished. It would only be a matter of balancing. I used KerbPaint on the stock wing parts on the bottom to make a "heat shield" I also used it on StretchyTanks to make the ET.

It's ascent is much like the real Space Shuttle.

At the launchpad, the SSME's would be activated at zero throttle and moved into 100% throttle.

Once at max, the SRB's would be activated and the launch clamps released.

Upon clearing the launchpad, the SSME's would throttle down to about 80% to maintain efficiency & balance.

At about 10-12,000m the force of the SRB's would push the Orbiter Vehicle and External Tank unto an angle until it runs out of fuel.

The SRB's would detach leaving the OV and ET at an angle.

The OV would continue ascending until the apoapsis reaches 70,000m (above the Karman line).

Once the apoapsis reaches 70,000m the ET would have run out of fuel and it would be jettisoned.

Upon reaching 70,000m the orbital maneuvering engines would take over and complete the orbit.

The shuttle would dock to the space station and deliver it's payload.

De-orbiting proceedure would take place.

The shuttle would glide back into KSC and land on the runway.

Edited November 3, 2013 by Christian365

[KissSh0t]

Very well done... good stuff.

[Zuni]

Nice! Best shuttle design I've seen so far.

[katateochi]

Very well done. Looks good and (perhaps more importantly) it flies right! I've had many failed attempts at getting a shuttle design but I can never managed to deal with the shift in thrust when the boosters run out. Good job Sir!!

[RSwordsman]

That is one sexy shuttle.

[Christian365]

Very well done. Looks good and (perhaps more importantly) it flies right! I've had many failed attempts at getting a shuttle design but I can never managed to deal with the shift in thrust when the boosters run out. Good job Sir!!

Glad you liked it I highly recommend that you use dtobi's Space Shuttle Engines mod. It might solve your problem. It's gimbal range is outstanding and it matches with the SSME's in real life. Here's the link for your convenience.