// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM
Liftoff
Liftoff is the moment when a rocket or spacecraft leaves the launch pad and begins its ascent into the sky. It's the official start of the flight.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Liftoff is the critical event marking the precise moment a launch vehicle's thrust overcomes its weight, causing it to separate from the launch pad and begin its ascent trajectory, signifying the commencement of powered flight.
BACKGROUND
Space technology is technology for use in outer space. Space technology includes space vehicles such as spacecraft, satellites, space stations and orbital launch vehicles; deep-space communication; in-space propulsion; and a wide variety of other technologies including support infrastructure equipment, and procedures.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Launch
- Takeoff
- Blastoff
- Ignition
- Ascent Start
USAGE NOTE
The crowd cheered as the rocket achieved liftoff.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Liftoff.
Designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft. Key launch vehicles include Falcon 9 and Starship, enabling frequent liftoffs for various missions.
Developing reusable rocket engines, launch vehicles (New Shepard and New Glenn), and in-space systems to facilitate access to space and enable numerous future liftoffs.
A joint venture of Boeing and Lockheed Martin, providing reliable and cost-effective launch services for the U.S. government, using Atlas V and Delta IV Heavy, and developing the new Vulcan Centaur rocket for liftoffs.
Commercial launch service provider that operates the Ariane, Soyuz, and Vega families of launch vehicles, offering competitive liftoff solutions for satellites into various orbits.
Specializes in developing and launching small satellite rockets, most notably the Electron launch vehicle, providing dedicated and rideshare liftoffs for commercial and government customers.
Develops and manufactures launch vehicles such as Antares, as well as solid rocket motors and advanced propulsion systems essential for liftoffs in various space missions.
An independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for the civilian space program, including developing the Space Launch System (SLS) for heavy-lift liftoffs and procuring launch services.
Europe's gateway to space, developing and overseeing launch vehicles like Ariane and Vega, and fostering technology for future European liftoff capabilities and space exploration.
Develops and operates the H-IIA, H-IIB, and next-generation H3 launch vehicles for Japan's space program, providing heavy-lift liftoff capabilities for various missions.