Question

How do movie producers make their space shuttle scenes appear realistic for the audience

Answer 1

They can use miniature models, and a specific set of perspective and angles. Lightning techniques, special effects, and practical effects (That consists in constructing real scale structures that resembles space shuttles).

When we talk about movie production we have to keep on mind the budget for the film. It will the predominant driving force for which technology will be used, knowing that there are a wide range of options varying from low cost options until multimillionaire visual effects.

Answer 2

It really depends on the movie. For instance, in Apollo 13, scenes were shoot aboard a Boeing KC-135 or the Vomit Comet. It is a NASA's refueling tanker plane for Zero G training. Astronauts wanna-be would fly up in the plane and experience a free fall.