What is a rocket? Rockets are used for carrying a payload into space. A payload can be a satellite, a telescope or even a live crew. A payload-carrying rocket is also called a launch vehicle.
Rockets work by burning a fuel and oxidizer mixture to create thrust that lifts the rocket. Often, oxygen( O2) & Hydrogen( H2) are used to mix and combust in a combustion chamber.
The gas form of oxygen and hydrogen take up too much volume to fit inside a rocket, so scientists drop the temperature way below zero, creating a phase change and producing Liquid Oxygen( LOX) and Liquid Hydrogen( LH2). Both propellants are stored in two separate tanks until turbo pumps mix the fluids together in the combustion chamber. This combination of Liquid Oxygen and Liquid Hydrogen produces an enormous amount of energy to be able to lift the rocket off the pad.
A rocket needs a certain amount of thrust to lift off the pad. This thrust must be greater than the rocket ' s total weight to overcome the pull of Earth ' s gravity. As the rocket burns more fuel it gets lighter, allowing it to accelerate faster and faster into orbit.
If you LOVE space and science, consider becoming an aeronautical designer, aerospace engineer, astrophysicist or scientist. Participate in aeronautics learning programs, such as Quantum Academy. I also recommend getting involved in NASA’ s student programs like the Dream With Us Challenge, Student Launch Challenge and Student Internships. These can be your first steps toward an exciting career!
Ad Astra( to the stars), Prof. Mark Baraket
Check out Quantum Academy courses!
Illustration by Sunny Satpathy and Zoe Keller-Mih
1. NOSE CONE: Located at the very top, its aerodynamic shape cuts through the air to reduce drag. It acts as a protective shield over the payload during launch.
2. PAYLOAD: This is what the rocket is sending into orbit. It could be measuring tools, a probe or even a spacecraft with astronauts in there.
3. ROCKET BODY: This is the part of the rocket that houses the propellant and guidance system.
4. GUIDANCE SYSTEM: This helps direct the rocket and keep it on course.
5. FUEL: This is the energy source, such as Liquid Hydrogen, which is burned to release highpressure gases that push the rocket up.
6. OXIDIZER: This is the chemical needed to support the burning of the fuel, such as Liquid Oxygen.
7. COMBUSTION CHAMBER: This is where the fuel and oxidizer are pumped into and ignited to burn, forming the gases that push the rocket upward
8. FINS: They help keep the rocket pointing in the direction it launched.
9. NOZZLE: This is where the burning gas and exhaust comes out, thrusting the rocket upward.
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