Human Space Flight
Main Engine
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Space Shuttle Main Engines
The Space Shuttle main engine is the most advanced, most powerful, liquid-fueled rocket engine ever built. The engines are supplied with liquid hydrogen and oxygen from the external tank during liftoff and ascent. Three main engines are mounted on the orbiter aft fuselage in a triangular pattern. The engines are spaced so that they are movable during flight and, in conjunction with the two solid rocket boosters, are used to steer the Shuttle vehicle during flights as well as provide thrust for launch. Fuel for the engines, liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, is contained in the external tank. Engine thrust, however, can be varied throughout the range from minimum to full power level depending on mission needs.

Shuttle main engines are thoroughly
inspected and tested between flights
to assure acceptable operation during
subsequent flights.

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Ted Wolff - tawolff@sandia.gov