The Approach and Landing Test program of the Space Shuttle Orbiter 101

The Approach and Landing Test (ALT) program was conducted in late 1976 through November 1977 to investigate the low speed characteristics of the Orbiter alone. The innovative aspects of the Orbiter are discussed along with the ALT program and the testing methodology used. The Shuttle Transportation System concept is briefly reviewed. The ALT was a first step towards operational missions for the Shuttle. The prime objective of the ALT was to verify the systems design and integrated operation of the Orbiter, and to demonstrate the capability of the Orbiter to safely land at a designated runway. The first free flight of the Orbiter occurred on August 12, 1977. Attention is also given to the results obtained in free-flight two, three, four, and five. Free-flight five was specifically planned to demonstrate a runway landing.