Orbital

Canon Facts Backstage Info Speculation

Type	Inter-orbital and surface to orbit transport
Unit Run	1,230 remain in service.
Commissioned	2272 - 2302
Dimensions	Length : 11.37 m Beam : 6 m Height : 3.74 m Decks : 1
Mass	17,120 kg
Crew	1 - 4
Armament	None
Defence Systems	Light Monotanium single hull.
Warp Speeds (TNG Scale)	Not Applicable
Strength Indices (Galaxy class = 1,000)	Beam Firepower : - Torpedo Firepower : - Weapon Range and Accuracy : 5 Shield Strength : - Hull Armour : 0.3125 Speed : 0.1 Combat Manoeuvrability : 50,000
Overall Strength Index	37
Diplomatic Capability	Grade 1
Expected Hull Life	60 years
Refit Cycle	Minor : 1 year Standard : 5 years Major : 15 years

Notes : The orbital shuttle was fielded in the 2270's in order to enhance Starfleets ability to move people and equipment both between orbital facilities and from planetary surfaces to orbit. The requirement stresses simplicity and low cost of both construction and operation, necessary in all such craft if they are to be effective competition to transporter systems. The designers chose single hulled construction to simplify manufacture and keep the mass down to a minimum. No shields or weapons where included, nor was any provision made for future installation of such systems. The computer core was a simple duotronic system, and the sensor suite was limited to a simple navigtion/terrain scanning laser radar backed up by an inertial navigation system.

Although not popular due to the limited capabilities, the Orbital shuttle was procured in substantial numbers and served its purpose adequately for many decades. The type began retiring from 2332, and although the last was due to go in 2362 some two hundred have been retained in service due to delays in fielding a replacement.

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