Falcon 9

Falcon 9 is a two-stage orbital launch vehicle designed and manufactured by SpaceX. It is known for its reusable rocket technology, allowing the first stage of the rocket to return to Earth and land vertically after launch, significantly reducing the cost of access to space. The vehicle is primarily used to transport payloads to orbit, including satellites, cargo for the International Space Station (ISS), and crewed missions as part of the Commercial Crew Program. The Falcon 9 employs Merlin engines powered by rocket-grade kerosene and liquid oxygen as propellants, and its design includes a payload fairing to protect payloads during ascent through the Earth's atmosphere. The rocket is notable for its high reliability and frequent launch cadence.