Henry Spencer wrote:

In article ,
Abrigon Gusiq wrote:
Any chance they will build a new shuttle?

No. Not when the whole shuttle system has only a few years of operational
life left -- a new orbiter would only just be entering service by that
time, and it would cost several billion.

Enterprise, can it be made operational versus a test bed?

Not quickly or cheaply. It would be a bit easier than starting from
scratch, but only a bit. Enterprise does not have a spaceworthy cabin,
for example, and not only would you have to build one, you'd have to split
the structure open to get it in. Same story: it would cost too much and
it wouldn't be ready in time to be very useful.

Another ding against using Enterprise is the structure. If I recall
correctly, she has the same basic structure that Columbia and Challenger
had that is is heavier than the others. After the first couple of flights
by Columbia the last two (later three) spacecraft had redesigned wings that
were stronger and lighter. therefore, If they did make Enterprise flight
worthy it would not help for ISS servicing missions. Have to check with
old timers here for details.