Where is the best place to launch a rocket into space?

Rockets can most easily reach satellite orbits if launched near the equator in an easterly direction, as this maximizes use of the Earth’s rotational speed (465 m/s at the equator). Such launches also provide a desirable orientation for arriving at a geostationary orbit.

Why do rockets launch near sea?

Advantages of ocean-based over a conventional land-based launch platform: An ocean launch reduces risks related to launching over populated areas, providing better safety to third parties.

Why do rockets launch from the ground?

Earth’s gravity is still pulling down on the rocket. When a rocket burns propellants and pushes out exhaust, that creates an upward force called thrust. To launch, the rocket needs enough propellants so that the thrust pushing the rocket up is greater than the force of gravity pulling the rocket down.

Why rockets are sent to space?

We launch satellites and spacecraft into space by putting them on rockets carrying tons of propellants. The propellants give the rocket enough energy to boost away from Earth’s surface. Because of the pull of Earth’s gravity, largest, heaviest spacecraft need the biggest rockets and the most propellent.

Why do we launch satellites so close to the equator?

The real reason for wanting to launch close to the Equator is for spacecraft launching satellites to Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO). GEO requires a specific orbital altitude so that the orbital period is the same as Earth’s rotation (day). But more importantly… it requires the orbital inclination to be 0. Right on the equator.

Why do equequatorial rockets launch to the east?

Equatorial launches are all about minimizing the Plane change maneuver to get a zero inclination orbit… Not really about the extra boost which is minuscule. The boost from Earth’s rotation is huge, and that’s why we launch to the east. The variance in that boost based on latitude however, is minuscule.

What are the advantages of equequatorial launch sites?

Equatorial launch sites offered certain advantages over facilities within the continental United States. A launching due east from a site on the Equator could take advantage of the earth’s maximum rotational velocity (460 meters per second) to achieve orbital speed.

Where is the best place to launch to geostationary orbit?

The ideal place to launch to geostationary orbit is, obviously, on the equator. Equatorial launches only require the vehicle to bring the payload to orbital speed and do not require inclination changes.