A small-lift launch vehicle is a rocket orbital launch vehicle that is capable of lifting 2,000 kilograms (4,400 lb) or less (by NASA classification) or under 5,000 kilograms (11,000 lb) (by Roscosmos classification)[1] of payload into low Earth orbit (LEO).

The next larger category consists of medium-lift launch vehicles.

On 4 October 1957, the Sputnik rocket was used to perform the world's first satellite launch, placing the Sputnik 1 satellite into a low Earth orbit.

[3][4][5] The US responded by attempting to launch the Vanguard rocket.

The Vanguard I mission was the second successful US orbital launch.