Expendable launch system


An expendable launch system is a launch vehicle that can be launched only once, after which its components are either destroyed during reentry or discarded in space. ELVs typically consist of several rocket stages that are discarded sequentially as their fuel is exhausted and the vehicle gains altitude and speed. As of October 2019, most satellites and human spacecraft are currently launched on ELVs. ELVs are simpler in design than reusable launch systems and therefore may have a lower production cost. Furthermore, an ELV can use its entire fuel supply to accelerate its payload, offering greater fuel efficiency. ELVs are proven technology in widespread use for many decades. ELVs are usable only once, and therefore have a significantly higher per-launch cost than reusable vehicles. New reusable launch systems under development by private companies such as SpaceX and Blue Origin have the potential to obsolete many existing ELVs due to the lower per-launch costs of reusable rockets.

Current operators

Arianespace

produces, operates and markets the Ariane launcher family. Arianespace's 23 shareholders represent scientific, technical, financial and political entities from 10 different European countries.

China

India

ISRO currently operates ELV rockets such as PSLV, GSLV Mk.II, GSLV Mk.III.

Japan

manufactures ELVs.

Russia

Russia currently operates several state-owned families of expendable launch vehicles, including Proton and Soyuz.
All of the Russian space sector has been renationalized, starting in 2013 with the formation of the United Rocket and Space Corporation to consolidate a large number of disparate companies and bureaus. On 19 May 2015 State Duma passed a bill creating the Roscosmos State Corporation, further consolidating the industry.

United States

Several governmental agencies of the United States purchase ELV launches. NASA is a major customer with the Commercial Resupply Services and Commercial Crew Development programs, also launching scientific spacecraft. A state-owned ELV, the Space Launch System was, as of 2019, intended to be flying in 2020 or 2021.
The United States Air Force is also an ELV customer. Both the Delta IV and Atlas V from the 1994 Evolved ELV program remain in active service, operated by the United Launch Alliance. The National Security Space Launch competition is currently ongoing to select EELV successors to provide assured access to space.

Iran

The Iranian space agency operates expendable launch vehicles such as Safir, Qased and Simorgh.

Israel