The main advantage of the space shuttle was its reusability. Unlike previous spacecraft that were used only once, the shuttle was designed to be launched, serviced, and flown multiple times. This reusability significantly reduced the cost of access to space.
Additionally, the space shuttle was capable of carrying large payloads and conducting various missions, including satellite deployment, repairs, and construction tasks in orbit. This flexibility allowed NASA to conduct a wide range of scientific and exploratory missions, contributing to advancements in our understanding of space.
The shuttle also served as a vital platform for international cooperation in space exploration, bringing together astronauts and scientists from different countries to work on projects aboard the International Space Station (ISS).