Spaceplane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spaceplane

[ˈspeɪsˌpleɪn ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

aircraft

A spaceplane is a type of aircraft that can travel to space and back, combining features of an airplane and a spacecraft. Spaceplanes are designed to take off and land like a conventional airplane, but also have the capability to fly in outer space.

Synonyms

shuttle, space vehicle, spacecraft.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spaceplane	This term is best used when discussing a vehicle designed to operate both in the atmosphere and in outer space, often in contexts related to hypersonic travel or space tourism. The new spaceplane completed a series of successful test flights last month
spacecraft	A more general term for any craft or machine designed for space travel, including satellites, probes, and manned vehicles. It’s commonly used in both technical and everyday language. The spacecraft entered Martian orbit after a seven-month journey
shuttle	Generally used for reusable spacecraft that travel regularly between the Earth and space, such as the NASA Space Shuttle program. It's associated with routine missions and transporting astronauts and cargo. The shuttle will carry the new crew to the International Space Station next week
space vehicle	This is a broad term applicable to any type of vehicle designed to travel in outer space. It's often used in technical discussions or formal reports. The research team is developing a new space vehicle for deep space exploration

Examples of usage

The spaceplane successfully completed its mission to deliver supplies to the International Space Station.
NASA is developing a new spaceplane for future space travel.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History of Space Travel

The first spaceplane, the Space Shuttle, was launched by NASA in 1981, marking a new era in reusable spacecraft.
In the 1960s, the X-15 rocket plane made significant contributions to our understanding of spaceflight, reaching altitudes near space.

Technology and Innovation

Modern concepts include the SpaceShipTwo by Virgin Galactic, which aims for suborbital flights for space tourists.
Spaceplanes are designed to take off and land like traditional aircraft, but they can also reach the edge of space, offering a versatile approach to space travel.

Pop Culture

Spaceplanes have been featured in various movies and TV shows, highlighting a future where space travel is common.
In the game Kerbal Space Program, players can design and launch their own spaceplanes, blending fun with educational elements about flight mechanics.

Future Prospects

Companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin are exploring spaceplane designs that could revolutionize how we travel to space.
The idea of space tourism relies heavily on the development of spaceplanes to make trips to space accessible for civilians.

Origin of 'spaceplane'

Main points about word origin

The term combines 'space,' referring to the area beyond Earth's atmosphere, and 'plane,' meaning a vehicle that can fly.
The concept began to gain traction in the mid-20th century as space exploration became popular.

The concept of a spaceplane has been around since the early 20th century, with various designs and prototypes being developed over the years. The most notable spaceplane is the Space Shuttle, which was operated by NASA from 1981 to 2011. Spaceplanes offer the potential for more cost-effective and reusable access to space compared to traditional rocket launches.