SpaceX Starship uses liquid methane (natural gas) and liquid oxygen as its propellant. These propellants power the Raptor engines on both the Super Heavy booster and the Starship spacecraft.
Here's a more detailed look:
- Liquid Methane (CH4): Methane is a relatively clean-burning fuel, which is advantageous for reusability and reduces soot production compared to kerosene-based fuels. SpaceX aims to eventually source methane from Mars, enabling refueling on the planet.
- Liquid Oxygen (LOX): Liquid oxygen acts as the oxidizer, providing the oxygen needed for the methane to burn. LOX is a common oxidizer in rocket engines.
Why this combination?
- High Performance: Methane and oxygen offer a good balance of performance and cost-effectiveness.
- Reusability: Cleaner burning fuels, like methane, are conducive to engine reusability.
- Mars Colonization: Methane and oxygen can potentially be produced on Mars using local resources (water ice and atmospheric CO2), making it a key component for long-term space travel and colonization.
In summary, the choice of liquid methane and liquid oxygen for Starship's Raptor engines is driven by a combination of performance considerations, reusability goals, and the long-term vision of establishing a sustainable presence on Mars.
