The problem that NASA has in determining what types of cargo may be loaded on the space shuttle is an example of a knapsack problem.

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The knapsack problem involves determining the optimal combination of items to pack in a limited space or capacity. The NASA cargo problem involves selecting the most essential and useful items to bring on a space mission within the limitations of the spacecraft's cargo hold. This is a knapsack problem because NASA must make choices about what to bring based on limited space and weight capacity.

The Problem That NASA Has in Determining What Types of Cargo