Martin_Marietta_Spacemaster

Martin Marietta Spacemaster

Martin Marietta Spacemaster

Space Shuttle proposal

The Martin Marietta Spacemaster was a proposed configuration for what became the Space Shuttle, which featured an X-24-derived orbiter, and an unusual "catamaran style" booster stage. During launch and ascent, the orbiter would be located in a recess in the booster. The booster's 14 engines would be located in clusters of seven, at the bottom of both halves of the booster. Unlike the final design for the Space Shuttle, the Spacemaster would lack an external tank, and the boosters would be joined, by means of connecting struts which would also serve as the mounting for the orbiter.

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The concept was evaluated in 1967, but was rejected. Martin Marietta went on to produce the Space Shuttle external tank (ET) for the final STS Space Shuttle design (by Lockheed Martin after a merger with Lockheed).

A model of the Martin Marietta Spacemaster is in the collection of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.[1]

See also

References

  1. [1]
    "Model, Space Shuttle, Martin Marietta Spacemaster Two-Stage Concept, 1:96". National Air and Space Museum. Retrieved 2018-08-19.


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