Quote:
Originally posted by Mothy
Enterprise - the original concept test mule. Like most space things at the Smithsonian its the dirty version they build before they then produce the flight ready one - complete in every way.
This one has never been to space but did all the original glide tests, released from the back of a 747 plus much more.
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Otherwsie known as the Qualification Test unit. Nothing and I mean NOTHING "dirty" about them. They are rigidly the same as the flight units. Only they "shake and bake" them. They intentionally fully or over stress them to assure the safety of the flight crews and the missions.