Launch Vehicles & Propulsion

Space launch vehicles are designed to transport payloads such as satellites, spacecraft, and cargo into low-Earth orbit and beyond. These vehicles rely on propulsion systems that generate immense thrust to overcome Earth's gravitational pull and achieve the necessary velocity for orbital insertion or interplanetary travel. The propulsion systems used in launch vehicles typically employ chemical propellants, which undergo controlled combustion to produce high-temperature, high-pressure gases that are expelled through a nozzle, generating thrust. Common propellant combinations include liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen (used in the Space Shuttle main engines), or solid propellants (used in some rocket boosters). Advanced propulsion technologies, such as ion engines and nuclear thermal rockets, are also being explored for future space exploration missions.

News & Analysis

Apr 07, 2025
Sierra Space plans to fly a Honda-developed experimental fuel cell system to the International Space Station for testing in microgravity.
Apr 04, 2025
The International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory plans to launch its Orbital Edge Accelerator program.
Apr 04, 2025
The newcomers can bid for Lane 1 work once they complete a successful first flight.
Apr 03, 2025
True Anomaly isoffering its Jackal autonomous spacecraft for missions in geosynchronous orbit and cislunar space.
Apr 03, 2025
Robust on-orbit sensing and characterization systems are critical to deterring hostile actions and maintaining freedom of access to space as a global common.
Apr 02, 2025
Brazilian energetics supplier Mac Jee has displayed for the first time a mock-up of a hypersonic, solid-fuel rocket now in development.
Apr 02, 2025
Isar Aerospace’s Spectrum launch highlights Europe’s challenge to open a new era for its rocket industry.
Apr 02, 2025
Long Wall, formerly known as ABL Space Systems, has changed its name and mission focus.