The minimum distance for all involved rockets shall be based on what factor when launching multiple rockets simultaneously?

The minimum distance for all involved rockets when launching multiple rockets simultaneously is determined by the total installed impulse of the motors in all rockets. This principle is rooted in the understanding that the total impulse directly correlates to the thrust produced by the rockets during launch, which influences the safety distance required to ensure that the launch area is safe for spectators, equipment, and personnel.

As impulse represents the total momentum imparted by a rocket motor in a given time, it is a critical factor in assessing the potential danger during the launch. More powerful rockets with higher total impulse can pose greater risks due to increased explosive potential and the velocity at which they and their debris might travel in case of a failure. Therefore, calculating the minimum safe distance on the basis of the total installed impulse ensures that adequate precautions are taken, safeguarding all involved parties.

Other factors, such as the weight of each individual rocket, the size of the launch area, and the type of fuel used, may have their importance in specific contexts, but they do not provide the comprehensive safety metric needed for determining minimum distances during a simultaneous launch. The total impulse encompasses the primary considerations of thrust and energy release, making it the most effective measure in this scenario.