What does PROTO mean in NASA

PROTO stands for Private Rocket To Orbit Tiny Objects. It is a revolutionary new way of sending small objects into space without the need for large, expensive rockets powered by fuel.

PROTO uses innovative technology to launch objects from the surface of the Earth into low-earth orbit with minimal cost and environmental impact. The process involves launching a rocket carrying a specially designed payload, which then deploys its payload onto an orbital trajectory; this allows it to remain in orbit indefinitely with minimal effort or risk.

PROTO is designed to send small items such as satellites and experiments into low-Earth orbit without the need for large, expensive rockets powered by fuel. Any item up to around 1 kg in weight will be suitable for launch on a standard PROTO mission.

The proprietary technology developed for use with PROTO launches utilises electromagnetic forces generated by magnets in order to accelerate the object until it reaches an escape velocity that will take it out of Earth's gravity and into orbit. This eliminates much of the weight and complexity associated with traditional rocket launches as well as reducing potential safety risks and emissions when compared to chemical-based propulsion systems.

In addition to its affordability and efficiency, one major benefit to using PROTO is its scalability; since each launcher can be used multiple times, users have more flexibility when planning missions or crafting experiments that involve multiple steps or altered trajectories over time. Furthermore, since much of the hardware involved in launching an object can be reused, there are also significant savings associated with maintaining a full launch system over time compared to traditional rocketry methods.