– could the space shuttle just fly into space like a plane, rather than being propelled vertically by rockets?

Question

– could the space shuttle just fly into space like a plane, rather than being propelled vertically by rockets?

In: 48

Answer 1

Airplanes achieve lift using the atmosphere and jet engines provide thrust using atmospheric air. Space doesn’t have air, so they have to use something else to propel the vehicle. Hence, rocket boosters and you have to BYO fuel.