Laukaisulaitteet

Laukaisulaitteet, or launch vehicles, are specialized spacecraft designed to carry payloads, such as satellites, space probes, or crewed spacecraft, from Earth's surface into space. These vehicles are typically composed of multiple stages, each containing its own engines and propellant. The first stage provides the initial thrust to lift the vehicle off the ground, while subsequent stages take over as the vehicle ascends, shedding mass as they are jettisoned. The most common type of launch vehicle is the expendable rocket, which is designed for a single use. Reusable launch vehicles, such as SpaceX's Falcon 9, are designed to be recovered and reused, reducing the cost of space access. Launch vehicles are launched from spaceports, which are facilities equipped with launch pads, control centers, and other infrastructure necessary for launch operations. The development and operation of launch vehicles are typically carried out by space agencies, commercial companies, or private entities.