ABSTRACT
This chapter provides performance information on the Shuttle relevant to whether or not it is a weak link. The information can also illuminate decisions on other programs Space Station, Human Exploration, a new launch system - which depends on evaluation of Shuttle performance. Cost, schedule, and capability are the factors for analysis because upon project approval these factors are established as programmatic goals, thus providing a baseline against which performance may be measured. The capability of the Space Shuttle may be evaluated in many ways, both quantifiable and nonquantifiable, with respect to programmatic goals. There are three criteria by which capability may be measured: with respect to program's original goals, against similar programs, and with respect to present or future goals. In any public enterprise project cost is important to policymakers, policy analysts, and American citizens as projects often compete on that basis.
