Analyzing the Impact of Reusable Rocket Launch System Failures on Large-Scale Space Missions: A Simulation-Based Approach

The commencement of space exploration with Neil Armstrong's historic words upon landing on the Moon marked a pivotal moment in human history. Since then, the quest to explore beyond the Moon and delve into the vast universe has been an ongoing endeavour. Originating from the Cold War, this pursuit has spurred significant technological advancements, particularly in rocket technology. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has played a crucial role, fostering innovation and progress in rocket science over the past few decades. In the contemporary landscape, private space companies, notably SpaceX, have entered the rocket manufacturing domain, introducing revolutionary upgrades and pioneering cost-efficient reusable rocket launch systems. SpaceX's advancements have reshaped the space industry, emphasizing both technological innovation and economic viability. However, the complexity of space missions introduces the inherent risk of launch failures or malfunctions, posing substantial challenges to the success of the entire program. This paper focuses on a comprehensive analysis of the repercussions of rocket, booster, and launch vehicle failures on space missions. Utilizing discrete-event simulation modeling, the study evaluates the impact of these failures on mission timelines and costs. The objective is to provide insights into the mitigation strategies and resilience measures required to address these challenges in contemporary space exploration endeavours.