The complete database of

Spacecraft Propulsion

Spacecraft propulsion refers to the methods and systems used to move spacecraft through space or adjust their trajectory. It is critical for launching spacecraft, maneuvering in orbit, traveling between celestial bodies, and performing corrections during missions. Propulsion systems work by expelling mass (propellant) to generate thrust, adhering to Newton’s third law of motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Related: A Short Guide to the Different Types of Rocket Fuel

Quick jump to: Solid Propulsion • Liquid Propulsion • Hybrid Propulsion

Solid-Fuel Propulsion

Solid fuel propulsion uses a pre-mixed combination of fuel and oxidizer in solid form. The propellant is packed into the rocket motor, where it burns to produce thrust when ignited.

Scout Rocket Family

Explore the Scout Rocket Family, a pioneering series of launch vehicles that revolutionized access to space for scientific missions.

Athena Rocket Family

Explore the versatile Athena Rocket Family, a solid-fuel propulsion option known for reliability and flexibility in delivering payloads.

Mu Rocket Family

Explore the legacy and achievements of the Mu Rocket family, Japanese launch vehicles known for their reliability in supporting exploration.

Northrop Grumman Pegasus - Spacecraft Propulsion - USA

Northrop Grumman Pegasus Rocket

Discover the innovative Northrop Grumman Pegasus, an air-launched space launch system revolutionizing access to space.

Northrop Grumman Taurus - Spacecraft Propulsion - USA

Taurus / Minotaur-C Rocket

Explore the Taurus / Minotaur-C, a versatile and reliable launch vehicle used for deploying satellites and payloads into orbit.

Minotaur Rocket Family

Explore the Minotaur rocket family, a versatile series of launch vehicles supporting a wide range of space missions.

Start-1 Rocket

Discover the Start-1 rocket, a compact and reliable launch vehicle designed for deploying small satellites into low Earth orbit.

Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle

Explore the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), India’s reliable workhorse for deploying satellites into polar orbits.

Liquid Propulsion

Liquid fuel propulsion uses separate liquid fuel and oxidizer stored in tanks and mixed in a combustion chamber to produce thrust. It includes two primary types: cryogenic (supercooled) and hypergolic (spontaneously igniting) fuels.

SpaceX Falcon 9

Explore the SpaceX Falcon 9, a pioneering reusable launch vehicle that has reshaped space access. Learn about its design and missions.

Delta IV Heavy Rocket

Explore the Delta IV Heavy Rocket, a pinnacle of launch technology capable of deploying heavy payloads into orbit, and learn about its design.

Atlas V Rocket

Explore the versatile Atlas V rocket, a cornerstone of space exploration, known for its reliability and adaptability.

Soyuz Rocket Family

Discover the legendary Soyuz rocket family, a cornerstone of human space exploration for over 50 years., and learn about its missions.

Ariane 5 Rocket - Spacecraft Propulsion - Liquid Fuel - Europe

Ariane Rocket Family

Explore the Ariane rocket family, Europe’s reliable and versatile launch vehicles, renowned for their role in deploying crafts into orbit.

Long March 5 Rocket

Discover the Long March 5 rocket, a cornerstone of China’s space program, renowned for its reliability and versatility.

H-IIA Rocket

Explore the H-IIA rocket, a cornerstone of Japan’s space program known for its reliability and versatility. Learn about its design and missions.

GSLV Mk III Rocket

Discover the GSLV Mk III, India’s indigenous heavy-lift launch vehicle, renowned for its capability to deploy satellites into diverse orbits.

Hybrid-Fuel Propulsion

Hybrid propulsion combines aspects of solid and liquid systems, using a solid fuel and a liquid or gaseous oxidizer. The two components are stored separately and react in the combustion chamber to produce thrust.