Reusable Rockets
Evergreen explainer · neutral data, no opinion

Launch cost per kg to LEO

Current verified value
2,600
SpaceX (Falcon 9) · reused, publicly cited
Database · 2025 Human-verified

What it measures

Publicly cited price to put one kilogram into low Earth orbit on the cheapest available rocket — the headline number reusability is driving down. The Space Shuttle cost roughly $54,500/kg; a reused Falcon 9 is about $2,600/kg; Starship aims far lower.

Glossary →

History

79k31k12k4.6k1.8kSpace Shuttle (~$54,500/kg)20112025

By actor

SpaceXFalcon 9, reused2,600

Goal / baseline

now2,600
goal~$200/kg
baselineSpace Shuttle (~$54,500/kg)

Starship's stated target for cheap, frequent heavy-lift access.

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