What Does ETLOW Stand For?

ETLOW stands for External Tank Lift Off Weight

ETLOW, or External Tank Lift Off Weight, refers to the total mass of an external fuel tank and its contents at the point of launch. This measurement is critical for spacecraft design and mission planning, as it affects the vehicle's performance, trajectory, and fuel efficiency during ascent. Accurate calculations of ETLOW ensure that the launch vehicle can achieve the necessary thrust and orbital parameters effectively.