The International Space Agency (ISA) has a fleet of shuttles to perform various tasks, whether it is for orbital missions around the Earth or outer-space long-haul expeditions. The MSFB-5XL, also known as the Mercury shuttle, is used for satellite-related duties and short haul travel.

Cockpit of the Mercury shuttle.

The Mercury Shuttle’s launch process is unique and is performed from the ISA base in New Mexico. The shuttle is brought in an upright position to its launching ramp by a crawler-transporter, then lowered into place as the launch sequence is initiated.

The lifting body of the shuttle is attached to a dolly set on the launching ramp. When the primary nuclear engines are powered up, the shuttle rolls down the ramp to gather speed, then at the last moment, is propelled upwards as the ramp curves with an optimal flying angle to exit Earth’s atmosphere. The dolly falls off the ramp as the shuttle takes off and can be retrieved for future launches.

Mercury's launch sequence.

Once the shuttle reaches orbit, the lifting body detaches and falls back to Earth, where it will also be recovered.

When the mission is complete, the shuttle returns to Earth, where it will land back at the ISA base using its landing jets.

Mercury Shuttle's conception art, graciously provided by Dominic Lavery.

(Sources: Materials from Granada Ventures Limited, Anderson Entertainment Ltd./GAP PLC©, Gerry Anderson's New Captain Scarlet Funfax, Spectrum Agents' Handbook, New Captain Scarlet's Magazine, New Captain Scarlet DVD set and other materials. Special thanks to Dominic Lavery for providing blueprints, sketches, artworks, and other exclusive materials and to Isabelle Saucier for text and additionnal pictures.))