Starting something:
* Begin: A general term for starting something.
* Commence: More formal than "begin," often used for important events.
* Initiate: To start something new or formally introduce it.
* Embark: To start a journey or undertaking, often with a sense of adventure.
* Unleash: To release something with force or power.
* Inaugurate: To formally start something, often a new period or project.
* Kickstart: To give something a strong start.
* Set in motion: To cause something to start happening.
* Roll out: To introduce something new to the public.
* Debuts: To introduce something for the first time.
* Premiere: To show something publicly for the first time.
* Release: To make something available to the public.
Sending something into the air:
* Propel: To drive something forward.
* Fire: To launch something with great force.
* Discharge: To release something, often a weapon or a projectile.
* Blast off: Used specifically for launching spacecraft.
* Take off: Used specifically for aircraft leaving the ground.
* Send up: To launch something vertically into the air.
Other similar meanings:
* Introduce: To make something known or available for the first time.
* Promote: To make something more widely known or available.
* Market: To promote and sell something.
* Expedite: To speed up the process of something.
The best word to use will depend on the specific context.