DELTA-SIERRA MARS TOOL
Delta-v calculator — ideal rocket equation
See the logarithmic effect of mass ratio directly.
Essential answer
Delta-v increases with specific impulse and with the logarithm of mass ratio. Doubling propellant therefore does not automatically double delta-v.
Every value is editable. Scenario values are not an official NASA architecture.
Calculator
Method and limitations
The equation is ideal: it does not include gravity, drag, steering losses, margins, or variable engine performance. Tonnes cancel in the mass ratio.
Primary sources and evidence status
The calculation distinguishes physical relation, demonstrated value, standard, educational assumption, and Delta-Sierra scenario.
- NASA Glenn — Ideal Rocket Equation
Source for Δv = Isp·g₀·ln(m₀/mf) under the idealized assumptions stated by NASA. - NIST — standard acceleration of free fall
Reference value g₀ = 9.80665 m/s².
Sources and further reading
Downloadable scenario data
Dataset v1.1 documents every prefilled value: unit, system boundary, time basis, evidence status, and source when one exists.