launch window

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "launch window" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to a specific time period during which a launch can occur. For example, "The rocket is scheduled to take off during the launch window of 3 to 5 PM." Alternative expressions include "launch period" and "launch timeframe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But a lengthy shutdown could have caused Maven to miss the launch window.

The New York Times

"Right now, those milestones are pointing us toward a new launch window".

The New York Times

Launching from the ground can mean waiting for the Earth to rotate until the launch window is accessible.

The Economist

"The old Atari would have shipped it in the launch window or certainly in the March time frame regardless.

The New York Times - Tech

North Korea had said it was extending the original 13-day launch window by a week until 29 December.

The Guardian

She will get her next chance when the nearest launch window opens in the small hours of May 22nd.(Photo credit: EPA).

The Economist

Any suitable runway will do.In addition, an air launch promises a lot more scope to find a good "launch window" to get the spacecraft into orbit.

The Economist

On this latest attempt, the North provided a launch window, an orbital path and likely splashdown zones for two jettisoned rocket stages.

The New York Times

Second, rather than having to wait ages on the ground for the right launch window, an air-launcher can fly to a better location.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Similarly, Microsoft drafted Jessica Alba in to launch Windows 8 last year.

The Guardian - Tech

At launch, Windows 10 did not recognise old product keys, but it does now.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing time-sensitive projects, clarify the "launch window" with precise dates and times to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "the launch window is next week", specify "the launch window opens on Monday, April 22nd, at 9:00 AM PST and closes on Friday, April 26th, at 5:00 PM PST".

Common error

Avoid using "launch window" interchangeably with "launch date". "Launch window" refers to a period of time during which a launch can occur, whereas "launch date" is a specific, fixed date for the launch. Missing this distinction can lead to misunderstandings in project planning and communication.

Linguistic Context

The primary function of the phrase "launch window" is to designate a specific period of time during which a rocket or spacecraft can be launched to achieve its mission objectives. This is supported by Ludwig and its examples, where the phrase appears in the context of scheduled launches and mission planning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "launch window" is a well-established and grammatically correct term used to describe the period during which a rocket or spacecraft can be launched. Ludwig's examples confirm its usage across diverse fields, including news, science, and technology. While the phrase enjoys very common usage, it's crucial to differentiate it from "launch date" and to provide specific dates and times when communicating about time-sensitive projects. Consider related phrases like "optimal launch period" or "ideal launch opportunity" for nuanced expression. The consistent and correct usage, as supported by Ludwig, highlights its importance in technical and operational contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

optimal launch period

Emphasizes the ideal timeframe for launching, using 'period' instead of 'window'.

ideal launch opportunity

Focuses on the chance to launch, rather than the timeframe itself.

available launch timeframe

Highlights the temporal aspect using 'timeframe' and 'available'.

permitted launch slot

Implies authorization or allowance to launch within a specific time.

designated launch interval

Uses formal terms to specify a scheduled time for launch.

scheduled launch period

Highlights the planned aspect of the launch time.

launch availability

Focuses on the fact that there is a time when launch is possible.

launch opportunity

Uses the term opportunity instead of period. Less specific about the time frame itself.

launch slot

Short, less descriptive term indicating an allocated time.

window of opportunity for launch

More verbose but reinforces the concept of a limited-time chance.

FAQs

How to use "launch window" in a sentence?

You can use "launch window" to describe the period during which a rocket or spacecraft can be launched. For instance, "The weather conditions must be favorable within the launch window to proceed with the mission."

What factors determine the duration of a "launch window"?

The duration of a "launch window" depends on various factors, including the alignment of celestial bodies, the spacecraft's trajectory, and mission requirements. A narrow window requires more precise timing and favorable conditions.

What can I say instead of "launch window"?

Alternatives to "launch window" include "optimal launch period", "ideal launch opportunity", or "available launch timeframe", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What happens if a launch is delayed and misses its "launch window"?

If a launch is delayed and misses its "launch window", the mission may need to be postponed until the next suitable window opens. This can result in significant delays, increased costs, and potential impacts on the mission's objectives.