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.

---

launch window British  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of launch window

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

launch window

SpaceX’s Starship was due for take-off 90 minutes after its launch window opened at 6:45 p.m.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 17, 2026

The company said Monday it is preparing to launch the flight test as soon as Thursday, with a launch window set to open in the evening.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 13, 2026

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

Nasa's planned launch window opens on 6 February and runs into the spring.

From BBC ● Jan. 9, 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