In Space Shuttle , you play as the pilot of space shuttle Discovery on a mission to launch into orbit, repair a satellite, and return safely. Your goal is to complete each phase with minimal fuel usage. The game features varying difficulty levels, with increasing challenges for each repeat attempt.
The gameplay involves controlling every aspect of the shuttle from its engines to cargo bay doors from the first-person cockpit perspective. As you progress through the mission, you'll be rewarded with a ranking based on successful dockings and fuel efficiency. Two alternative game modes are available: Autosimulator, where the computer controls the flight, and Simulator mode, which offers unlimited fuel but no time pressure.