Falcon 9
Definition
A partially reusable, two-stage-to-orbit medium-lift launch vehicle designed, manufactured, and operated by SpaceX for delivering satellites, cargo, and crew to low Earth orbit and beyond.
The workhorse of SpaceX's launch manifest, renowned for its vertical landing capabilities and over 300 successful missions as of 2026, slashing the cost of space access.
Examples
The Falcon 9 booster nailed another flawless landing on the drone ship, proving rockets can stick the dismount better than most Olympians.
Elon tweeted about the latest Falcon 9 launch like it was just another Tuesday commute to orbit.
Watching a Falcon 9 hurl Starlink satellites skyward feels like the universe's version of a bulk grocery run.
The Falcon 9's ninth flight of the week had space nerds glued to their screens, debating if reusability counts as recycling.