Abstract: In a method and a device for vertically lifting a horizontally arranged cylindrical object, especially a rocket (50), from a base (40) by means of one or more lifting yokes (61) which are suspended in a lifting device (70), preferably comprising one or more lifting wires (71) which are suspended from a crane beam (24), the lifting yoke (61) is placed above the object (50) and connected thereto, jacks (62) are provided between the base (40) and the lifting yoke (61), the lifting yoke (61) with the object (50) are lifted up with the jacks (62) from the base (40) to a critical height for the lift, the tension in the lifting wires (71) is increased, thus transferring the weight of the lifting yoke (61) and the object (50) from the jacks (62) to the lifting wires (71), and the lifting yoke (61) with the object (62) are lifted up from the jacks (62) by means of the lifting wires (71).

Abstract: A device for transporting and launching rockets carrying a payload for transportation into space includes a floatable structure. The floatable structure includes a hoist for moving the rocket in a horizontal orientation from a ship to a deck of the floatable structure. The floatable structure also includes a hanger for the rocket, and facilities necessary for moving the horizontally oriented rocket to a launching pad, and for raising the rocket into a vertical position.