When does the final space shuttle launch, and when does NASA plan to implement the replacement?
All shuttle missions are subject to delays and changes due to weather and mission requirements. The current list of future shuttle missions and dates can be found at http://seds.org/~spider/shuttle/shu-sche.html All but one of the future missions is dedicated to completing construction of the International Space Station. Each will be transferring modules, equipment, supplies, and astronauts to the station. After that, the space shuttles will be decommissioned. The next generation of US manned spacecraft is being developed in the Constelation project. The crew module is called Orion and the booster rocket is called Ares. These will probably not be ready for human testing before the shuttles are retired. There are also private companies that are planning their own spacecraft to reach low Earth orbit. They may or may not be ready and/or allowed to dock with the space station. You can learn more at the link below. I
