Rocket Science 101: Understanding How Rockets Work

Summary

In this article, we will explore the basic components of a rocket, how they work, and the different types of rockets that exist. We will also discuss the challenges of building and launching a rocket, as well as the future of rocket technology.

Why do rockets launch straight up?
The Components of a Rocket
How Rockets Generate Thrust
The Loudest Sound You’ve Ever Heard
Multi-Stage Rockets and Reusability
Returning from the Moon
Conclusion

Why do rockets launch straight up?

Rocket scientists Tierra and Myron Fletcher explain that rockets launch straight up because the thrust is propelled out of the rocket. Going sideways would not have the counteraction of the ground to push from. Once in the air, thrust vector controls can turn the rocket in any direction.

The Components of a Rocket

A rocket consists of a structural system and a propulsive system. Fins cause the rocket to be stable, and a nose cone helps reduce air resistance. The most powerful rockets are multi-stage, shedding parts as they deplete fuel. These parts typically fall into the ocean and are not reusable. However, companies like Blue Origin and SpaceX are working on reusable rockets that can land back on Earth safely.

How Rockets Generate Thrust

NASA’s Space Launch System uses liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, which are extremely cold and known as cryogenic fuels. When combined, they create combustion called thrust, which generates about 2 million pounds of thrust. The solid rocket boosters are made of a proprietary material that is lit from the inside out, creating thrust. A rocket brings its own fuel and oxygen source, so it can burn in space.

The Raptor 2 engine produces 510,000 pounds of thrust, and 33 of these engines will be used for the Starship, which is predicted to have 17 million pounds of thrust.

The Loudest Sound You’ve Ever Heard

The loud sound of rocket engines is due to the thrust going past the speed of sound, creating shock waves that cause rumbles and vibrations.

Multi-Stage Rockets and Reusability

Multi-stage rockets shed parts as they deplete fuel. These parts typically fall into the ocean and are not reusable. However, companies like Blue Origin and SpaceX are working on reusable rockets that can land back on Earth safely.

Returning from the Moon

Rockets and moon missions get back to Earth from the moon by using the same propulsion system that they used to get there in the first place. They use the moon’s gravity to slingshot back towards Earth and then use their engines to slow down and enter the Earth’s atmosphere. It’s a delicate and complex process, but it has been successfully done many times before.

Conclusion

Building and launching a rocket takes a nationwide and international effort, with thousands of suppliers building and testing parts before they are assembled and hot fired at facilities in New Mexico, Mississippi, and Florida. As technology advances, we can expect to see more powerful and efficient rockets, as well as increased reusability and sustainability in the industry.