launch window

American  

noun

1. a precise time period during which a spacecraft can be launched from a particular site in order to achieve a desired mission, as a rendezvous with another spacecraft.

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launch window British  

noun

1. the limited period during which a spacecraft can be launched on a particular mission

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Etymology

Origin of launch window

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

SpaceX said there is a 37-minute launch window for the CAS500-2 mission that opens at 11:59 p.m., with a backup window 24 hours later.

From Los Angeles Times • May 2, 2026

The launch window for Artemis II, as the mission is called, opens at 6:24 p.m.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 29, 2026

Engineers say the issue has now been fixed and hope that a series of final tests at the pad will confirm the rocket is ready for an early‑April launch window.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

Final decisions on the best launch window for each mission will be made closer to flight, based on readiness and conditions.

From Science Daily • Feb. 2, 2026

Once the capsule climbed through the launch window, separated from the Atlas, and settled into a successful orbit, it established communication links with the ground stations.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly