As we increase the size and mass of a world, at what point does it become impossible for a rocket to achieve an orbit or escape velocity?
Many authors describe worlds with higher gravity than our own, from whence super-muscular aliens originate. However, as we increased the size, mass and surface gravity of a world; there would be points at which no chemical-fueled rocket, either practical or theoretical, could achieve escape velocity or a practical orbit, thus necessitating externally-powered launchers or atomic power.
Taking things further, at what point of increased planetary size, mass, and gravity would a practical atomic rocket no longer be able to achieve escape velocity or orbit?
Since this is hard-science, please limit answers to those involving rocketry that is either currently implemented or scientifically feasible.
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