XPost: sci.space.shuttle, sci.space.policy   
   From: kegwashers@t-online.de   
      
   Henry Spencer wrote:   
      
   > In article <40AFD035.4114451@yahoo.com>,   
   > Abrigon Gusiq   wrote:   
   >>Any chance they will build a new shuttle?   
   >   
   > No.  Not when the whole shuttle system has only a few years of operational   
   > life left -- a new orbiter would only just be entering service by that   
   > time, and it would cost several billion.   
   >   
   >>Enterprise, can it be made operational versus a test bed?   
   >   
   > Not quickly or cheaply.  It would be a bit easier than starting from   
   > scratch, but only a bit.  Enterprise does not have a spaceworthy cabin,   
   > for example, and not only would you have to build one, you'd have to split   
   > the structure open to get it in.  Same story:  it would cost too much and   
   > it wouldn't be ready in time to be very useful.   
      
   Another ding against using Enterprise is the structure.  If I recall   
   correctly, she has the same basic structure that Columbia and Challenger   
   had that is is heavier than the others.  After the first couple of flights   
   by Columbia the last two (later three) spacecraft had redesigned wings that   
   were stronger and lighter.  therefore, If they did make Enterprise flight   
   worthy it would not help for ISS servicing missions.  Have to check with   
   old timers here for details.   
      
   --- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05   
    * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)