The Space Shuttle Discovery (OV-103) was NASA‘s third operational orbiter, following Columbia and Challenger. Constructed by Rockwell International, Discovery was delivered to Kennedy Space Center in November 1983. It embarked on its maiden voyage, STS-41-D, on August 30, 1984, successfully deploying three satellites during the mission.
Design and Construction
The Space Shuttle Discovery was the third orbiter built in NASA’s Space Shuttle program, designated OV-103. Constructed by Rockwell International, its design and construction were based on the lessons learned from its predecessors, Columbia and Challenger. Discovery was designed to be more efficient and lighter than the earlier orbiters. Engineers reduced its weight by incorporating advancements in materials and simplifying its internal systems.
Discovery’s construction began in August 1979, and it was completed in October 1983. Delivered to Kennedy Space Center on November 9, 1983, Discovery was outfitted with advanced thermal protection tiles and other systems needed for its diverse range of missions, including satellite deployment, space station assembly, and scientific research. Its design was refined over its operational lifespan, with periodic upgrades to its hardware and software, ensuring it remained a critical asset in NASA’s fleet.
Operational History
Throughout its operational life, Discovery completed 39 missions, more than any other orbiter in the fleet. It played a pivotal role in deploying satellites, such as the Hubble Space Telescope during STS-31 in April 1990, and conducted two servicing missions to upgrade and repair the telescope.
Discovery was also integral to the assembly of the International Space Station (ISS), delivering essential modules and components. Notably, it was the first shuttle to return to flight after both the Challenger and Columbia disasters, demonstrating NASA’s resilience and commitment to space exploration.
Discovery's Technical Specifications
- Length: 122.17 feet (37.24 meters)
- Wingspan: 78.06 feet (23.79 meters)
- Height: 57 feet (17.37 meters)
- Empty Weight: Approximately 171,000 pounds (77,566 kilograms) with main engines installed
- Maximum Gross Liftoff Weight: 4.5 million pounds (2,041,166 kilograms)
- Payload Bay Dimensions: 60 feet long by 15 feet in diameter (18.3 meters by 4.6 meters)
- Main Engines: Three Rocketdyne Block II SSMEs, each producing 393,800 pounds of thrust at launch
Legacy
After 27 years of service, Discovery was retired following its final mission, STS-133, which concluded on March 9, 2011. In recognition of its significant contributions to space exploration, Discovery was selected for preservation and display.
It is now exhibited at the Smithsonian Institution’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, where it serves as an educational artifact, inspiring future generations to pursue advancements in space science and exploration.
