In which direction should rockets be fired to maximize the benefits of Earth's rotation?

Firing rockets to the east takes advantage of Earth's rotation, which moves from west to east. By launching in this direction, rockets receive an additional velocity boost from the planet's rotation, allowing them to reach orbit more efficiently and with less fuel. This leverage on Earth's rotational speed is significant, as the surface of the Earth at the equator moves at approximately 1670 kilometers per hour (about 1037 miles per hour).

In contrast, launching in the opposite direction (to the west) would counteract this rotational speed, requiring more energy and fuel to achieve the same orbital velocity. Launching to the north or south does not utilize the rotational benefits to the same extent either, because the rotational speed is maximized at the equator and decreases as you move toward the poles. Therefore, launching to the east is the optimal choice for maximizing the benefits of Earth’s rotation.