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The fundamentals behind space travel are addressed in Liftoff to Learning: Space Basics, as the crew of Space Shuttle STS-41 explain four basic areas of discussion: how spacecraft stay in orbit, how spacecraft travel in space, how spacecraft return to Earth, and why astronauts float in space. The many terms used to describe the weightless state are examined, and common misconceptions about gravity are cleared up. The history of rocket science in the U.S. is explored and students can see a demonstration of the parts of the space shuttle.