A SHORT HISTORY OF THE SPACE SHUTTLE ORBIT FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT AND APPLICATION EVOLUTION

The Space Shuttle Orbit Flight Control System (OFCS) provided all Guidance, Navigation, and Control capabilities from external tank separation during ascent until entry interface during return. Its development began in earnest in 1975 with first orbital flight application in 1981. The many operational requirements for the Shuttle and its unique vehicle design characteristics demanded specialized algorithms and numerous functional features despite very limited computer memory and speed by contemporary standards. This paper provides a short history of the Shuttle OFCS development and orbital application evolution.