>[!summary] Rocket Risk Classification To classify rockets designed to launch robotics missions into Earth orbit and beyond, [[NASA]] uses three categories based on risk associated with the rocket. To certify a rocket into one of these three categories, NASA uses a set of requirements that examines various aspects of the rockets including management systems, flight experience, design and analysis, testing, and risk management strategies. > 🔗 [NASA Launch Services Risk Classification Fact Sheet](https://www.nasa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/risk-classification-fact-sheet.pdf) ## Category 1 **High Risk** – New, common rocket configuration with little or no prior demonstrated flight history. ## Category 2 **Medium Risk** – Rockets that have a limited history of successful flights representing an 89% demonstrated reliability. ## Category 3 **Low Risk** – Rockets that have a more robust flight history representing a 95% demonstrated reliability.