How does the space shuttle reenter?

Factual Questions
1

I’m guessing that the retros just slow it down enough to bring it to a low enough orbit that atmospheric friction will do the rest of the job. True? If so, just how much does it slow it down, and to about what “altitude?”

2

I was at the KSC monday and listened to an astronaut lecture. IIRC the shuttle only slows by about 300mph from 17,500 to start reentry.

3

If you want to know How Stuff Works, there’s plenty of places to look. :wink: