It takes a lot of companies to build space shuttles. Space shuttle equipment comes from all over, and a shuttle spacecraft is assembled with the help of many shuttle spacecraft manufacturers and subcontractors.

Space shuttle parts contracts are usually awarded to one business based on competitive bidding. Space shuttle technology is ever evolving, though, so only those who stay in the game technology-wise can remain competitive and profitable. Government space shuttle contracts can potentially land a business in the 10s of millions of dollars.

To make the most of resources on space shuttles and space shuttle manufacturers:

1. Look at the major space shuttle craft manufacturers in the industry.

2. Find out the other subcontractors who make space shuttle equipment as well.

3. Look at the other shuttle spacecraft resources in the industry.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check out the biggest manufacturers for space shuttles

Boeing and Lockheed Martin are two of the largest space shuttle equipment companies in the US. Find out about their space shuttle technology.

I recommend: Boeing works as major subcontractor to United Space Alliance, which is NASA's prime contractor for the space shuttle program. They work on the following projects: ongoing engineering support, orbiter maintenance and modifications, system and payload integration, shuttle upgrades, space shuttle main engines and payload operations. Lockheed Martin is Boeing's partner in operating United Space Alliance.

Find out about space shuttle craft subcontractors

From engines, to wings, to motors and more space shuttle equipment, many subcontractors play a role in helping to assemble and maintain the craft for NASA.

I recommend: L-3 Communications produces electronic systems for the shuttles. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne has contracted to do engine work for NASA. Alliant Techsystems produces and refurbishes four-segment reusable solid rocket motors (RSRM) for the space shuttle program.

Take a look at who helps on even more space shuttles

Find out about these additional shuttle spacecraft resources. They have also had a hand in spacecraft design and are all highly qualified professionals.

I recommend: Sypris can build flight hardware to NASA's highest standard, NASA-STD-8739.3. Magellan Aerospace is another aerospace contractor. Jacobs Aerospace and Defense Services has over 70 years serving government and commercial clients.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The industry of space shuttles isn't all fun and money. It's a highly-technical, competitive, precise field that requires the best of the best to ensure that problems like the piece of fuel tank foam that hit the Columbia's wing during liftoff and subsequently caused the crash of the shuttle not happen again. If your business is interested in entering the playing field, make sure that your are industry certified and meet all standard qualifications before putting in a bid. Consider hiring a consultant to help you with the bid process.