Editing Launch escape system (section)

{{Short description|A system to get the crew to safety if a rocket launch fails}}
[[File:LittleJoe.gif|thumb|Launch-abort-system and parachute test of the Apollo Command Module via [[Little Joe II]].]]
A '''launch escape system''' ('''LES''') or '''launch abort system''' ('''LAS''') is a crew-safety system connected to a [[space capsule]]. It is used in the event of a critical emergency to quickly separate the capsule from its [[launch vehicle]] in case of an emergency requiring the abort of the launch, such as an impending explosion. The LES is typically controlled by a combination of automatic rocket failure detection, and a manual activation for the crew commander's use. The LES may be used while the launch vehicle is on the [[launch pad]], or during its ascent. Such systems are usually of three types:

*[[File:Proposed deployment sequence for Gemini ballute stabilization device.jpg|thumb|Diagram of [[Project Gemini|Gemini's]] launch escape sequence|265x265px]]A solid-fueled rocket, mounted above the capsule on a tower, which delivers a relatively large thrust for a brief period of time to send the capsule a safe distance away from the launch vehicle, at which point the capsule's parachute recovery system can be used for a safe landing on ground or water. The escape tower and rocket are jettisoned from the [[space vehicle]] in a normal flight at the point where it is either no longer needed, or cannot be effectively used to abort the flight. These have been used on the [[Project Mercury|Mercury]], [[Apollo spacecraft|Apollo]], [[Soyuz (spacecraft)|Soyuz]], and [[Shenzhou (spacecraft)|Shenzhou]] capsules.
*The crew are seated in seats that eject themselves (ejection seats) as used in military aircraft; each crew member returns to Earth with an individual parachute. Such systems are effective only in a limited range of altitudes and speeds. These have been used on the [[Vostok (spacecraft)|Vostok]] and [[Project Gemini|Gemini]] capsules, and [[Space Shuttle Columbia|Space Shuttle ''Columbia'']] during its testing phase.
*Thrusters integrated in the capsule or its detachable service module having the same function as an escape tower, as in the case of [[Crew Dragon]], [[Boeing Starliner|Starliner]] and [[New Shepard]].