// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM
Launch Sequence
The launch sequence is the precise, step-by-step series of events that occur during a rocket's countdown and liftoff, from final checks to engine ignition and ascent.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
The launch sequence is the meticulously choreographed, time-critical series of automated and manual events, procedures, and system activations that occur during the final countdown and liftoff of a launch vehicle, culminating in engine ignition and ascent.
BACKGROUND
As of May 27, 2026, the SpaceX Starship has been launched 12 times, with 7 successes and 5 failures. SpaceX has developed Starship with the intention of lowering launch costs using economies of scale. It aims to achieve this by reusing both rocket stages, increasing payload mass to orbit, increasing launch frequency, creating a mass-manufacturing pipeline and adapting it to a wide range of space missions. Starship is the latest project in SpaceX's reusable launch system development program and plan to colonize Mars, and is one of two landing systems selected by NASA for the Artemis program's crewed Lunar missions.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Countdown Sequence
- Launch Profile
- Ignition Sequence
- Ascent Sequence
USAGE NOTE
Engineers closely monitored each step of the launch sequence for any anomalies.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Launch Sequence.
Designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft, including the Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Starship, all of which rely on sophisticated launch sequence technology for successful missions.
A joint venture of Lockheed Martin and Boeing, ULA provides launch services using its Atlas V, Delta IV, and Vulcan Centaur rockets, with extensive development in launch sequence automation and reliability.
Operates and markets the Ariane, Soyuz, and Vega launch systems, developing and executing precise launch sequences for European and international customers.
Developing reusable rocket engines, orbital launch vehicles (New Glenn), and lunar landers, all requiring intricate launch sequence design and execution.
A global leader in small satellite launch services, developing and operating the Electron launch vehicle, which features highly automated and robust launch sequencing systems.
Responsible for developing and overseeing launch sequences for its own missions (e.g., Space Launch System for Artemis) and collaborating with commercial providers on launch operations and safety protocols.
A major aerospace and defense company involved in various aspects of space launch, including solid rocket boosters for the SLS and its own Antares and Minotaur launch vehicles, which require detailed launch sequence planning.
Coordinates European space activities, including the development and oversight of launch infrastructure and procedures for its scientific and exploration missions, working closely with Arianespace.
Japan's national aerospace agency, responsible for the development of launch vehicles like the H-IIA, H-IIB, and the new H3, involving advanced launch sequence technologies and operational procedures.
India's primary space agency, developing and operating launch vehicles such as the PSLV and GSLV, with continuous efforts in refining their launch sequence processes for various satellite deployments and interplanetary missions.