Speaker Series: Astrophysics

The Rocket Equation: Why Space Has Limits

Speaker: Ye Lu, WPI

Could we just send trash to the Sun? Since the launch of the first rockets and satellites in the mid-20th century, our ability to reach space has been governed by a powerful rule called the Rocket Equation. This single equation explains why rockets need so much fuel, why launches are so expensive, and why going farther into space gets dramatically harder. In this talk, we will break down the rocket equation to explore what it means for getting satellites into orbit and beyond, sending astronauts to the Moon and Mars, and someday becoming a truly spacefaring civilization. If we dream of living beyond Earth, this equation is both our greatest challenge and our greatest guide.

Ye Lu is fascinated by spaceflight and the dream of exploring other worlds. As an Assistant Professor of Aerospace Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, he teaches students how spacecraft move and how missions are designed, while leading research that helps shape the future of spaceflight and planetary exploration.