Systems and methods for launching space vehicles into outer space are disclosed. Systems include a launch vehicle with at least two stages. A thrust augmentation stage provides thrust during an initial portion of a launch trajectory. A first stage provides thrust during the initial portion and during a second portion of the launch trajectory. In some systems, the thrust augmentation stage is reusable with a distinct first stage. In some systems, the thrust augmentation stage defines a central bore, through which the first stage extends for initial launch of the launch vehicle.