Grumman Shuttle Training Aircraft

Grumman · United States · first flew 1976 · light aircraft

The Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) was a modified Gulfstream II business jet used by NASA to simulate the steep, unpowered approach of the Space Shuttle orbiter during astronaut training.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Low-mounted, swept
E — Engines	2 × turbofan, tail-mounted
F — Fuselage	29.4 m fuselage
T — Tail	T-tail

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Spot it by:

Modified Gulfstream II used to simulate Space Shuttle approach
Engines mounted in reverse-thrust mode during approach simulation
Distinctive NASA white livery with shuttle-trajectory steep glideslope capability

Recognisable as a standard Gulfstream II twin-jet silhouette, distinguished by NASA markings, a modified cockpit replicating shuttle instruments, and its unique steep-approach operational role.

Specifications

The Grumman Shuttle Training Aircraft has a length of 29.4 m (96 ft).
It has a wingspan of 23.7 m (78 ft).
Its maximum speed is 917 km/h (570 mph).
Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

NASA converted four Gulfstream II airframes, modifying them to fly the shuttle's 20-degree glideslope by flying with landing gear down and engines in partial reverse thrust. The STA was used from 1976 until the shuttle programme ended in 2011.

Variants

All four STAs were Gulfstream II conversions; there were no distinct production variants, though avionics and shuttle-simulation systems were updated over the programme's life.

Where you'll see it

Operated exclusively by NASA at Ellington Field, Houston, the STAs trained every Space Shuttle commander and pilot candidate. Three aircraft survive as museum exhibits.

Related aircraft

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