In this section

Basic Structure and Launching

Position and Orbit

Communication

Navigation

Power

Computer

Returning to Earth

Computer

Five on-board computers that handle data processing and control critical flight systems can be found in the orbiter. The computers monitor equipment and talk to each other and vote to settle arguments.
Computers control critical adjustments especially during launch and landing:
- operations of the orbiter (housekeeping functions, payload operations, rendezvous/docking)
- interface with the crew
- caution and warning systems
- data acquisition and processing from experiments
- flight maneuvers

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Graphic:

Photo Courtesy NASA