- The orbiter structure is divided into several major sections
and is constructed mostly - Consists of the upper and lower
fuselage, houses the crew compartment. - The three-level crew
compartment includes the flight deck, middeck, and equipment
bay. - The middeck airlock is large enough to accommodate two
suited astronauts at once. Forward Fuselage and Crew Compartment
Windows - The orbiter has 11 windows. - An aerodynamic lifting
surface that provides conventional lift and control for the
orbiter. - Forms the payload bay area, interfaces with the
forward fuselage, aft fuselage and wings. Payload Bay Doors -
Are opened shortly after orbital insertion to provide for
vehicle heat dissipation. - Consists of an outer shell, thrust
structure and internal secondary structure. Orbital Maneuvering
System/Reaction Control System Pods - Attached to the aft
fuselage, house the OMS/RCS propulsion components. - Thermally
shields the main engines during entry, provides pitch control
trim during - Consists of a structural