Selflaunching

Self-launching describes the capability of a system to begin its flight or ascent using only its onboard propulsion and support systems, without relying on external launch equipment or assistance. In aviation, it most often refers to motor gliders or self-launching sailplanes that carry an onboard engine to achieve an initial climb.

In sailplanes, self-launching gliders integrate a compact propulsion unit—typically a small piston engine or electric motor—with a retractable propeller. This allows the aircraft to take off from a runway or airfield without a tow or winch and to climb to a suitable altitude before the propulsion is shut down and the aircraft glides. The ability to self-launch provides operational flexibility and extended cross-country capability but adds weight, mechanical complexity, maintenance requirements, and potential performance penalties compared with conventional non-powered gliders.

Beyond gliders, the term can be applied more broadly to systems designed to begin flight or ascent without external launch assistance. In missiles and spaceflight concepts, self-launching may describe vehicles with fully integrated propulsion able to ignition and lift without a separate launch platform; in some small launch systems or unmanned platforms, self-launching emphasizes independence from carrier or ground-support launchers. In practice, the meaning is context-dependent, and the phrase is most commonly used in glider and small rocket contexts.