- SpaceX catches Starship booster mid-air
- Upper stage completes controlled ocean splashdown
- FAA grants approval for current and next test flights
Chopsticks Save the Day
SpaceX achieved a major milestone in its Starship development program, successfully catching the returning Super Heavy booster using massive “chopstick” arms attached to the launch tower. This unprecedented feat marks a significant step towards fully reusable spaceflight.
Splashdown Success
The test flight also saw the Starship upper stage complete a controlled reentry and splashdown in the Indian Ocean, repeating its success from the previous mission in June.
These achievements bring SpaceX closer to realizing its vision of rapid spacecraft reusability.
Regulatory Hurdles Cleared
Despite earlier concerns about regulatory delays, the FAA granted approval for the test flight earlier than expected.
The authorization also includes approval for the next test flight, paving the way for accelerated progress in the Starship program.
