Framed Prints From Space Images
Framed Print of Shuttle Enterprise Free Flight
The Space Shuttle prototype Enterprise flies free after being released from NASAs 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) over Rogers Dry Lakebed during the second of five free flights carried out at the Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California, as part of the Shuttle programs Approach and Landing Tests (ALT). The tests were conducted to verify orbiter aerodynamics and handling characteristics in preparation for orbital flights with the Space Shuttle Columbia beginning in April 1981. A tail cone over the main engine area of Enterprise smoothed out turbulent air flow during flight. It was removed on the two last free flights to accurately check approach and landing characteristics. A series of test flights during which Enterprise was taken aloft atop the SCA, but was not released, preceded the free flight tests. The Space Shuttle Approach and Landing Tests (ALT) program allowed pilots and engineers to learn how the Space Shuttle and the modified Boeing 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft (SCA) handled during low-speed flight and landing. The Enterprise, a prototype of the Space Shuttles, and the SCA were flown to conduct the approach and landing tests at the NASA Dryden Flight Research Center, Edwards, California, from February to October 1977. The first flight of the program consisted of the Space Shuttle Enterprise attached to the Shuttle Carrier Aircraft. These flights were to determine how well the two vehicles flew together. Five captive-inactive flights were flown during this first phase in which there was no crew in the Enterprise. The next series of captive flights was flown with a flight crew of two on board the prototype Space Shuttle. Only three such flights proved necessary. This led to the free-flight test series. The free-flight phase of the ALT program allowed pilots and engineers to learn how the Space Shuttle handled in low-speed flight and landing attitudes. For these landings, the Enterprise was flown by a crew of two after it was released from the top of the SCA. The vehicle was released at altitudes ranging from 19, 000 to 26, 000 feet. The Enterprise had no propulsion system, but its first four glides to the Rogers Dry Lake runway provided realistic, in-flight simulations of how subsequent Space Shuttles would be flown at the end of an orbital mission. The fifth approach and landing test, with the Enterprise landing on the Edwards Air Force Base concrete runway, revealed a problem with the Space Shuttle flight control system that made it susceptible to Pilot-Induced Oscillation (PIO), a potentially dangerous control problem during a landing. Further research using other NASA aircraft, especially the F-8 Digital-Fly-By-Wire aircraft, led to correction of the PIO problem before the first orbital flight. The Enterprises last free-flight was October 26, 1977, after which it was ferried to other NASA centers for ground-based flight simulations that tested Space Shuttle systems and structure. Space Image feature a selection of NASA's incredible imagery. © NASA
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Media ID 634526
NASA Dryden Flight Research Center , Space Shuttle Enterprise
Editors Comments
Experience the thrill of space exploration with our Framed Print featuring the iconic image of Space Shuttle Enterprise in free flight. Witness the historic moment as NASA's prototype shuttle, released from the 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, soars above Rogers Dry Lakebed during one of its five free flights. This photograph from Space Images captures the essence of human achievement and the awe-inspiring power of space travel. Bring this inspiring piece of history into your home or office and relive the magic of space exploration every day.
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Photo Prints - Experience the thrill of space exploration with our Photographic Prints featuring the iconic image of Space Shuttle Enterprise in free flight. Witness the historic moment as this prototype spacecraft, released from NASA's 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, soars above Rogers Dry Lakebed during one of its five free flights. Our prints are an addition to any home or office, capturing the wonder and excitement of space travel. Order yours today and bring a piece of history into your space.
Photo Mugs - Bring a piece of aerospace history into your daily routine with our Photo Mug featuring the iconic image of the Space Shuttle Enterprise in free flight. Witness the moment of triumph as NASA's prototype shuttle soars through the sky, released from the 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft over Rogers Dry Lakebed during a historic free flight test. Each mug is expertly printed with vibrant, high-definition Space Images to bring the beauty of space exploration right to your hands. Enjoy your favorite beverage while reliving the thrill of this milestone moment in space history.
Poster Prints - Experience the thrill of space exploration with our Shuttle Enterprise Free Flight Poster Print. Witness the historic moment as NASA's prototype Enterprise soars through the sky, released from the 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft during one of its five free flights at Rogers Dry Lakebed. This Space Images photograph captures the essence of innovation and human achievement. Bring this iconic image into your home or office and relive the magic of space travel every day.
Metal Prints - Experience the awe-inspiring moment of history with our Metal Print of the Space Shuttle Enterprise in free flight. Captured from space, this image shows the prototype shuttle soaring above Rogers Dry Lakebed after being released from NASA's 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft. Our metal prints bring colors and sharp details to your space, making this an unforgettable addition to any room. Relive the magic of space exploration with this durable piece of art.
Canvas Prints - Experience the thrill of space exploration with our Canvas Print featuring the iconic image of Space Shuttle Enterprise in free flight. This photograph captures the moment of history when the prototype shuttle, released from NASA's 747 Shuttle Carrier Aircraft, soared above Rogers Dry Lakebed for the second of five test flights. Our canvas prints bring colors and intricate details to your home or office, making this an unforgettable addition to any room. Relive the excitement of space travel with each gaze at this work of art.
Mouse Mats - Take your workspace to new heights with our Mouse Mats. Inspired by the incredible moment when Space Shuttle Enterprise soared free, this image captures the essence of freedom and limitless possibility. Let the thrill of discovery fuel your creativity and productivity as you work on a surface that's out of this world.
Modern Frame 12"x10"
Ready to Hang Contemporary Framed Prints adds style, protection, and a polished touch to your space - effortlessly.
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Made and Shipped from within the USA or Canada as appropriate. Printed on 10"x8" Premium Matte Paper offering bright, white paper with a matte finish with a digitally rendered mat surround offering the timeless look of professionally mounted artwork. Our 1″ Frames are available in a range of colours with clear acrylic shatterproof glazing and Kraft pad backer. Matte Paper offer a lighter-weight alternative to fine art paper which is optimized for artwork and can be suitable for photography in scenarios where a less glossy appearance is preferred. This sustainable paper printing is an alternative to our premium fine art paper. Each frame is 1″ wide by 3/4″ deep and glazed using standard 1/16” clear PETG to protect and enhance the visibility of each print. Ready to hang with a sawtooth metal hanger and sturdy backer.
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Estimated Image Size (if not cropped) is 19.6cm x 15.3cm (7.7" x 6")
Estimated Product Size is 30.5cm x 25.4cm (12" x 10")
Features In These Collections
> Posters > Aircraft Posters > Boeing
> Science > Space Exploration > Space Shuttle
> Space Images > Departments > Dryden Flight Research Center











































