heavy-lift launch vehicle (HLV) The most powerful type of space launch vehicle, sometimes defined as one having the capacity to place payloads of at least 10,000 kg into low Earth orbit or 5,000 kg into geostationary transfer orbit. Examples include the Space Shuttle, Atlas V, and Ariane 5. Related category ROCKETS, MISSILES, AND LAUNCH VEHICLES Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |