Spaceplanes

Spaceplanes are vehicles that combine ideas from airplanes and spacecraft.

How It Works

A spaceplane can fly partly like an airplane and travel very high, sometimes into space. The Space Shuttle was a famous spaceplane that landed like a glider.

Why It Matters

Spaceplanes must handle both air flight and the harsh conditions near space. Engineers study spaceplanes for future travel and research.

Fun Facts

• A spaceplane can fly partly like an airplane and travel very high, sometimes into space.
• The Space Shuttle was a famous spaceplane that landed like a glider.
• Spaceplanes must handle both air flight and the harsh conditions near space.
• Engineers study spaceplanes for future travel and research.

Did You Know?

Engineers study spaceplanes by testing, measuring, improving designs, and learning from real-world use.