rakety

Rakety is a term used in several languages to denote rockets or missiles. In Slavic languages that use Latin scripts, such as Russian rakety, Czech rakety, and Polish rakiety, the word refers to rocket-powered vehicles or devices that produce thrust by expelling propellant. The scope ranges from small model rockets to military missiles and space launchers.

Rockets are categorized by their propulsion and purpose. Most modern rakety use chemical propulsion and come in solid, liquid, or hybrid forms. Solid-propellant rockets are simple and rugged, while liquid-propellant rockets offer higher performance and controllability. Hybrid designs combine elements of both. Guidance and control vary by application: many rockets are unguided, but military missiles and space launchers employ onboard guidance systems, thrust vector control, inertial navigation, GNSS assistance, and computer-based flight control.

Historically, rocketry began with early devices in China and evolved through theoretical work by figures such as Tsiolkovsky, Goddard, and Oberth in the early 20th century. The development of the V-2 rocket during World War II marked a turning point, leading to the Space Age and subsequent orbital launch capabilities. Today, rakety enable satellite deployment, interplanetary missions, and a growing commercial launch sector, as well as educational and hobbyist activities through model rocketry.

Regulation and safety are important aspects of rakety use. International law and regimes address limits on propulsion technology and proliferation, including the Outer Space Treaty and the Missile Technology Control Regime, alongside national export controls and safety standards for launch activities.