Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Physics, Astronomy & Cosmology => Topic started by: thedoc on 31/07/2012 20:30:02

Title: How is the Falcon 9 rocket able to start its engines several times?
Post by: thedoc on 31/07/2012 20:30:02

Roy Bovenistier  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
Hello, here is a question for the naked astronomers.

How come the Falcon 9 rocket is able to start its engines several times?
 
Maybe because it doesn't use solid rocketboosters?

Thanks.
Roy.

What do you think?

Title: Re: How is the Falcon 9 rocket able to start its engines several times?
Post by: Soul Surfer on 01/08/2012 00:34:18

it depends on the fuel lots of small rocket thrusters use spontaneously combustible fuels like nitric acid and hydrazine.  (nasty stuff) others just use a spark plug or something similar