Rocket: From Parts to Launch

Preparing Rocket—

Rocket assemblyFrom parts to launch

01Start with the parts

Tanks, engines, a spacecraft, and its covers are laid out before you. Scroll to connect them one by one, then send the finished rocket into space.

02Assemble propulsion

Five engines lock onto the thrust structure. This is where their force will pass into the body of the rocket.

03Connect the feed lines

Connect the propellant lines above the engines. Four valves control the fuel and oxygen that will flow down from the tanks.

04Install the tanks

The tanks move into the body and meet the feed lines. One carries fuel, the other liquid oxygen for the journey beyond the atmosphere.

05Mount the payload

Secure the flight computer, then lower the spacecraft onto its support. The cargo now has its place at the top of the rocket.

06Fit the covers

The two fairing halves close around the spacecraft and the nose cone seats above them, completing its protection from heat and rushing air.

07Complete the airframe

The aft shell and boosters settle into place as the body closes around the tanks. Twelve groups now form one complete vehicle.

08Check the assembly

The five mounted engines tilt to check steering. With every part connected, the rocket completes its checks before launch.

09Ready for launch

Tanks, feed lines, engines, and spacecraft are secured in place. The completed rocket finishes its final checks and waits for ignition.

10At last, liftoff

The engines fire and the rocket lifts off. Let's follow it a little farther into space.

Getting readyLoading the rocketChecking the parts

Twelve groups.One rocket.