This invention relates to a system for launching a payload. A rotating flywheel (11) accelerates a traditionally designed rocket (16) to a significant speed. Rotational energy from the flywheel (11) is transferred in the form of kinetic energy through a spiral surface and a cable (14) to the rocket (16). The system comprises a smaller rocket (16) carrying less fuel, provided with a smaller first stage engine. All other components of the system are re-used. This leads to a simpler and more efficient design of the rocket (16) and to a considerable reduction in launch costs.