| Acronym | Meaning |
| HTVL | Horizontal Takeoff Vertical Landing |
| RTLS | Return To Launch Site |
| HEAO | High Energy Astronomical Observatory |
| ACF | Automated Control Function |
| AIAA | American Institute Of Aeronautics And Astronautics |
| NASP | National AeroSpace Plane |
| MMCC | Mission Management And Control Centre |
| NTT | New Technology Telescope |
| UKST | United Kingdom Schmidt Telescope |
| GDCLS | General Dynamics Commercial Launch Services |