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How are space shuttle landing sites chosen?

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Kennedy Space Center in Florida became the primary shuttle landing site because it is also the launch site, and returning to Kennedy completely eliminated the risk and cost of getting the shuttle from its landing site back to the launch site for i... read more

The transatlantic abort landing sites (Lajes Air Base in the Azores, Zaragoza Air Base in Spain, Morón Air Base in Spain, and Istres Air Base in France) where chosen because they have long runways that can accommodate the shuttle. read more

Edwards Air Force Base in California was the site of the first space shuttle landing, and became a back-up site to the prime landing location, the Shuttle Landing Facility at the Kennedy Space Center. read more

When a space shuttle roars from the launch pad and arcs over the Atlantic, a safety net of European landing sites is ready to save the day in the event of a problem. Known as Transoceanic Abort Landing sites, or"TAL" sites, the specially prepared bases are a shuttle's safe haven in times of trouble. read more

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