Saturn V liftoff thrust
Saturn V liftoff thrust is the combined force generated by the Saturn V rocket's first stage engines during launch.
How big is it?
34 MN · liftoff thrust
Liftoff thrust · approximate
Typical recorded range: 33 MN to 35 MN.
A little perspective
Saturn V liftoff thrust vs Space Shuttle liftoff thrust: weight comparison
The liftoff thrust of a Saturn V is about 1.11 times the liftoff thrust of a Space Shuttle.
FORCE
Saturn V liftoff thrust is the combined force generated by the Saturn V rocket's first stage engines during launch.
Space Shuttle liftoff thrust is the total upward force produced by its engines and boosters to launch the shuttle from Earth.
Measurements, assumptions & sources +
Saturn V liftoff thrust
Liftoff thrust: 34 MN; approximate; range 33 MN–35 MN.
A representative 34 MN liftoff-thrust anchor for the Saturn V first stage. Engine variation and the distinction between sea-level and in-flight thrust are covered by the stated range.
Defined examples — our methodology
The marked liftoff thrust is calibrated. Unmeasured illustration details are representative.
Space Shuttle liftoff thrust
Approximate total liftoff thrust: 30.5 MN; approximate; range 30 MN–31 MN.
Approximately 30.5 MN at liftoff from two Solid Rocket Boosters plus three Space Shuttle Main Engines. Thrust changes through ascent and quoted totals vary with engine rating and atmospheric convention.
NASA Technical Reports Server — Space Shuttle transportation system
The marked approximate total liftoff thrust is calibrated. Unmeasured illustration details are representative.
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Why this measurement?
Why we use 34 MN
We compare the liftoff thrust of a Saturn V. This is an estimate; check the notes for its rounding and uncertainty. The recorded range is 33 MN to 35 MN.
A representative 34 MN liftoff-thrust anchor for the Saturn V first stage. Engine variation and the distinction between sea-level and in-flight thrust are covered by the stated range.
The picture identifies the subject; the diagram compares the recorded values. How calibrated comparisons work →
Recorded properties
Dimensions and measurements
| Property | Selected value | Recorded range | Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34 MN | 33 MN to 35 MN | approximate |
Around this scale
Explore nearby values.
Compare examples with lower, similar and higher values. Each card names the measurement being compared.
Nearest lower valueGravity and forceSpace Shuttle liftoff thrust30.5 MNApproximate total liftoff thrustSpace Shuttle liftoff thrust is the total upward force produced by its engines and boosters to launch the shuttle from Earth.Around the same scaleGravity and forceWind turbine tower base load20 MNTower-base forceThe wind turbine tower base load is the downward force exerted at the base of a wind turbine tower due to the weight of the structure and the effects of wind.Nearest higher valueGravity and forceSLS Block 1 liftoff thrust39 MNLiftoff thrustSLS Block 1 liftoff thrust is the total propulsive force produced by the Space Launch System Block 1 rocket at launch.Sources and method
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GravitySpace Shuttle liftoff thrust30.5 MNSpace Shuttle liftoff thrust is the total upward force produced by its engines and boosters to launch the shuttle from Earth.GravitySLS Block 1 liftoff thrust39 MNSLS Block 1 liftoff thrust is the total propulsive force produced by the Space Launch System Block 1 rocket at launch.GravityWind turbine tower base load20 MNThe wind turbine tower base load is the downward force exerted at the base of a wind turbine tower due to the weight of the structure and the effects of wind.GravityFalcon 9 liftoff thrust7.6 MNFalcon 9 liftoff thrust is the total force produced by the Falcon 9 rocket's engines to lift it off the launch pad.GravitySuspension bridge main-cable tension200 MNSuspension bridge main-cable tension is the pulling force transmitted along a main cable to support the structure and its loads.GravityLaunch escape thrust of a Soyuz rocket4 MNThis is the force produced by the Soyuz rocket's launch escape system to rapidly move the crew capsule away in an emergency.GravityAircraft carrier buoyant support force1,000 MNAircraft carrier buoyant support force is the upward force from water that counteracts the weight of an aircraft carrier, enabling it to float.
GravityWeight of a 5,000 kg elephant49.03 kNThis is the downward force exerted by gravity on an adult elephant.