Although this is essentially a business blog, some basic engineering knowledge will be required to evaluate potential space business concepts. The rocket equation is one such concept which must be understood. This
interactive spreadsheet should give you better idea about how the rocket equation works. The spreadsheet should also give you the formulas which you can use in your own calculations. I have included multiple versions of the rocket equation, solving for: specific impulse, dry mass, propellant, and delta-v. In layman's terms, here is a brief definition of each rocket equation components:
- Specific Impulse (Isp): The efficiency of the engine. The higher the value, the greater the efficiency. Measured in seconds.
- Dry Mass: The mass of the spacecraft. Measured in kilograms.
- Propellant: The mass of the propellant. Measured in kilograms.
- Delta-V: The standard unit of measure for the cost of movement in space. The higher the maximum delta-v for a spacecraft, the more movement that spacecraft can perform. You are out of gas if you run out of delta-v.
- Gravity: Constant for LEO/GEO.
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