Raptor Engine Innovation

SpaceX's Raptor engine is a generational leap in rocket propulsion. It runs a full-flow staged combustion cycle — the most efficient design possible — burning liquid methane and liquid oxygen. Methane matters because it can be made on Mars from atmospheric CO2 and water ice, so a returning ship could refuel there.

Each Raptor produces about 230 tons of thrust, and the Super Heavy booster clusters 33 of them. The engine can throttle down to 40% and restart in flight — both essential for landing the booster and ship. SpaceX builds Raptors at roughly one per day, pushing costs well below rival engines.