SpaceX
SpaceX is an US based company which builds and launches rockets into Space.
The main launch vehicles for SpaceX are Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy. Starship, presently under development, aims to be the first entirely reusable launch system.
SpaceX' mission statement has evolved from:
"SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today, SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars."[1]
to:
"SpaceX designs, manufactures and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft. The company was founded in 2002 to revolutionize space technology, with the ultimate goal of enabling people to live on other planets."
Contents
Launch vehicles
Falcon 9
The Falcon 9 payload to LEO is 22 800 kg. Payload to the Moon is:
Falcon Heavy
Falcon Heavy is a variant of Falcon 9 with three 3,7m diameter cores. Payload to LEO is 63 800 kg. Payload to the Moon is:
Starship
The Starship is intended to launch large payloads into space which could reach the Moon, Mars and other celestial bodies. The rocket has undergone a number of name changes and is a two stage to orbit (TSTO) super heavy launch vehicle (more than 50 tonnes to orbit). The rocket has a 9m core. The engines use Methane-Oxygen, The planned payload is 100+ tonnes to LEO.
The Booster (or Super Heavy) is the first stage while the Starship is the second stage. Both stages are intended to be entirely re usable. The entire vehicle is also called the Starship.
By using orbital refueling, the Starship may be able to land payloads up to xx tonnes on the Moon.
Spacecraft
Dragon
The Dragon Spacecraft, cargo and crew variants.
Starship
The Starship Spacecraft is the second stage of the Starship launch system. It is planned to be able to reach the Moon and Mars using orbital refueling and aerobraking at Mars.
Artemis program
Dragon XL
Starship Human Landing System
The Starship HLS is a variant of Starship designed to meet the Artemis program requirements. It was one of the three designs selected for further development By NASA for the program. Straship HLS differs from Starship by the absence of flaps and heat shield, as it is not required to return to Earth. IT is also provided with engines mounted at mid height to reduce impingement of the engine plume with the Lunar regolith.
Starship is designed to shuttle between the Lunar Gateway and the Lunar surface.
