A4 2 F9: The Orbital Fiero Fallacy

Abstract

In the film F9: The Fast Saga, a 1984 Pontiac Fiero modified with a rocket engine is used to reach
Low Earth Orbit. This paper analyses the physical plausibility of this scenario by calculating the
required fuel mass. We found that to reach the necessary orbital velocity of approximately 7800
m/s, the vehicle would require a fuel mass over five times its own weight. This yields a required
mass fraction for the fuel that is unattainable for a vehicle of its design, rendering the stunt a
physical impossibility.