[sci.space.shuttle] Why does it roll?

gregory@icad.COM (Jack Gregory) (01/10/90)

I used to know this, but a friend asked me recently, and I can't remember.

The question is: Why does the shuttle roll on takeoff?  If there is a simple answer,
like, "to get into orbit upside-down" then please state why this is necessary.

Thanks.

--J Gregory