The high-stakes backflip performed by the Space Shuttle Discovery

Space · Published 18 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Watch how the Space Shuttle Discovery executed a precise eight-minute back flip to facilitate a critical inspection of the International Space Station.

Known as the Rendezvous Pitch Maneuver or R-bar Pitch Maneuver, this operation allowed the crew of the International Space Station to photograph the shuttle's upper and lower surfaces. By performing this maneuver, the shuttle positioned itself for a detailed inspection of its outer surface for potential damage.

The maneuver was conducted while the shuttle was in proximity to the ISS, specifically allowing the Zvezda Service Module crew to capture high-resolution imagery of the vehicle's exterior.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?

Related

• The eight-minute back flip used to protect the Space Shuttle
• The precise choreography of a shuttle's backflip in orbit
• Why NASA makes space shuttles perform dangerous acrobatic flips
• A 360-degree flip to inspect a spacecraft's skin
• The final choreography of the Space Shuttle Endeavour
• A 14-day journey to unlock the origins of our universe
• The final rehearsal for the end of an era
• How NASA used a modified Gulfstream jet to simulate shuttle landings
• Endeavour’s final flight delivered critical tools for the International Space Station
• The final ascent of a legend: Discovery’s last mission to the stars
• The Space Shuttle Endeavour finds a new window for flight
• The final flight of a shuttle that traveled 5.3 million miles

More in Space agencies · More in Space · Latest · A–Z · All topics