this post was submitted on 20 Jan 2026
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I thought ICBMs use silos. Rockets launching space payloads use launch pads, then they have space probes, experiments, observatories, novel imaging systems for gather knowledge about the cosmos. Rather than just solid rocket motors, they sometimes combine those with chemical propellants or just use chemical. Then maintain orbit with hypergols. The missions are much different, have much more rigorous and extensive command and data handling, way more complicated logistics, and way more mission flight algos / coding. Manned flights also have a lot more qualification, fault management, training, quality control and safety efforts.
JPL is not a NASA center. It's a non-profit lab for government support. People at NASA like space flight and science. Killing people is not the spirit at any NASA center.