SOVIETS IN SPACE

The Soviets’ Vostok (“East” in Russian) launched the first human, Yuri Gagarin, into one orbit around Earth. The R7 was first used for spaceflight to launch Sputnik. A third stage was added later; modified versions are still in use.

Spacecraft VOSTOK 1 1961

Third stage

Launch vehicle R7 1957-present

Second stage

First stage, four boosters

Numbers are averages for specific vehicles above.

0.58 million lb

TOTAL WEIGHT

88%

Fuel (%)

Spacecraft

11,000 lb (to low Earth orbit)

PAYLOAD (crew and cargo)

U.S. REACHES the MOON

The only rocket to carry humans past low Earth orbit had hydrogen-powered engines in its second and third stages.

Pressurized section for crew

Engine

Lunar module

Spacecraft APOLLO 11 1969

Launch vehicle SATURN V 1967-1973

Fuel tank

Third stage

Interstage

Second stage

First stage

6.5 million lb

91%

100,000 lb (to lunar orbit)

250,000 lb

ROUND-TRIP TICKET

The world’s first reusable spacecraft to carry humans into orbit could transport up to eight passengers. Solid rocket boosters could be refurbished after use if no damage was discovered.

Orbiter COLUMBIA 1981-2003

External fuel tank

Launch vehicle SPACE SHUTTLE 1981-2011

Para- chutes

Cargo bay

First stage

In- orbit fuel

4.5 million lb

84%

63,500 lb

U.S. Goes COMMERCIAL

NASA has contracted with SpaceX to bring astronauts as well as cargo to the International Space Station.

Spacecraft CREW DRAGON 2019

Launch vehicle FALCON 9 2010-present

Second stage

First stage (reusable)

Landing legs open

1.2 million lb (proportions not available)

50,000 lb