Janice R. Andrews
In a groundbreaking achievement, SpaceX successfully captured its Super Heavy booster using the launch tower’s robotic arms, nicknamed “Mechazilla,” following Starship’s fifth test flight on Sunday. The mission commenced at 8:25 AM ET from the company’s Boca Chica, Texas facility.
Departing from the traditional landing method employed by the Falcon 9 rocket, which typically touches down on a floating platform, the Super Heavy booster made a precision return to the launch site. It skillfully maneuvered into the waiting grasp of the tower’s extended “chopsticks.” This audacious maneuver represents a crucial advancement towards the full reusability of the Starship system.
Post-separation, Starship proceeded with its journey, culminating in a splashdown in the Indian Ocean at approximately 9:30 AM ET. This latest development propels SpaceX closer to its vision of transforming space exploration through reusable spacecraft technology.
