Brian Thorn ) writes:
On Sat, 20 Aug 2005 14:29:13 -0600, Charles Buckley
wrote:

Well, there is something of a concern about the US grounding Shuttle
before ISS finishes construction. And, Shuttle will be grounded years
before the 2015 date you cite.

I'm still not convinced we haven't already seen the last Shuttle
flight, but in any case isn't the US position that it will use CEV to
go to/from ISS after Shuttle?

So, the case for a second system is actually stronger than you indicate.

What is it about ISS that precludes its operation without Shuttle?

Delivery and removal of tonnage loads of hardware and consumables,
along with significant orbital re-boosts.

Soyuz/Progress cannot do all that.

Andre

--
" I'm a man... But, I can change... If I have to... I guess. "
The Man Prayer, Red Green.