SLS Block 1 liftoff thrust
SLS Block 1 liftoff thrust is the total propulsive force produced by the Space Launch System Block 1 rocket at launch.
How big is it?
39 MN · liftoff thrust
Liftoff thrust · approximate
Typical recorded range: 38 MN to 40 MN.
A little perspective
SLS Block 1 liftoff thrust vs Space Shuttle liftoff thrust: weight comparison
The liftoff thrust of an SLS Block 1 is about 1.28 times the liftoff thrust of a Space Shuttle.
FORCE
SLS Block 1 liftoff thrust is the total propulsive force produced by the Space Launch System Block 1 rocket at 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 +
SLS Block 1 liftoff thrust
Liftoff thrust: 39 MN; approximate; range 38 MN–40 MN.
A representative 39 MN combined liftoff-thrust anchor for SLS Block 1. It is a rounded vehicle-level value rather than a specification for any single engine or booster.
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 39 MN
We compare the liftoff thrust of an SLS Block 1. This is an estimate; check the notes for its rounding and uncertainty. The recorded range is 38 MN to 40 MN.
A representative 39 MN combined liftoff-thrust anchor for SLS Block 1. It is a rounded vehicle-level value rather than a specification for any single engine or booster.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 39 MN | 38 MN to 40 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 forceSaturn V liftoff thrust34 MNLiftoff thrustSaturn V liftoff thrust is the combined force generated by the Saturn V rocket's first stage engines during launch.Around the same scaleGravity 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.Nearest higher valueGravity and forceSuspension bridge main-cable tension200 MNDefined main-cable tensionSuspension bridge main-cable tension is the pulling force transmitted along a main cable to support the structure and its loads.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.GravitySaturn V liftoff thrust34 MNSaturn V liftoff thrust is the combined force generated by the Saturn V rocket's first stage engines during 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.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.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.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.