If at first you don't succeed, try and try again - even if it costs you $15m a pop. Take inspiration from the Firefly Alpha, a two-stage orbital expendable launch vehicle.  

Weighing in at half the mass of a blue whale, this American contender in the small satellite arena challenges India's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). In September 2021, this baby made its debut with the launch of the DREAM rideshare mission. Two and a half minutes (and $15 million) later, it was all over.

Unwavering, Firefly Aerospace readied their vehicle for another go in 2022. This venture saw it reach orbit, deploying seven satellites, although most re-entered Earth's atmosphere a mere week later. Finally, the saga of determination paid off in 2023, marking the first fully successful launch of Firefly Alpha.