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The Super Guppy


When parts of the International Space Station are launched into orbit, they will have already flown at least once. As different parts of the station are completed, they will be transported to the launch site on the Super Guppy cargo airplane.

The 25 foot diameter of the Super Guppy's "body" is designed to handle oversized loads. The 377SGT-F Super Guppy has the lift, speed, and size to meet all the requirements of the International Space Station.

Loading the Guppy is easy because of the unique "fold-away" nose of the aircraft. When the nose is retracted, cargo can be loaded on the airplane without too much difficulty. The Super Guppy's hinged nose opens 110 degrees for cargo loading. A control lock and disconnect system at the fuselage break allows the nose to be opened and closed without disrupting the flight or engine control rigging.

Cargo loading is simple and efficient. A system of rails in the cargo compartment is used with either Guppy pallets or fixtures designed for specific cargo. Rollers mounted in the rails allow pallets or fixtures to be moved by an electric winch mounted beneath the cargo floor. Automatic hydraulic lock pins in each rail secure the pallets for flight.


Descriptive caption at right A side view of the Supper Guppy on the ground
Descriptive caption at right The Super Guppy in flight
Descriptive caption at right An interesting view of the front of the Super Guppy
Descriptive caption at right Cargo is loaded into the Guppy's huge interior

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