> Just out of curiosity, what is the shuttle's approach speed, and can > it recover from a stall? > > David
I recall reading that initial flights landed at about 205 mph. This page: http://www-pao.ksc.nasa.gov/kscpao/nasafact/count3slf.htm says that the landing speed is typically now 213 to 226 mph. Heavier orbiter payload bay contents compared to initial flights could make that difference. In any case, as the orbiter rolls onto final, the pilot pushes over to steepen the glide and pick up speed. The glideslope is about 20 degrees at that point. Video from inside the cockpit at that point shows quite a view. As for stall characteristics, I really don't want to hypothesize on this because it would be pure conjecture. I've never seen any treatment of the topic. But, I would guess that it would not be a very good situation, with recovery being extremely difficult at best. Jon
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