SpaceX teases catching Super Heavy booster with 'chopsticks' on upcoming Starship test flight (video)
What is the purpose of SpaceX's "chopstick" arms?
SpaceX's "chopstick" arms are designed to catch the Super Heavy booster as it returns from space, allowing for efficient refurbishment and relaunch. They are part of the Mechazilla launch tower and aim to support rapid reusability of the Starship system, enabling cost reduction and increased launch frequency.
When did SpaceX plan to test catching the Super Heavy booster?
SpaceX planned to test catching the Super Heavy booster with the "chopsticks" on its launch tower during the upcoming Starship test flight, as suggested by Elon Musk in late July4. The company has been progressively working on enhancements and testing with each flight, aiming for more efficient and rapid refurbishment and relaunch of the rocket.
How tall is the Super Heavy booster?
The Super Heavy booster is 71 meters (233 feet) tall and 9 meters (30 feet) wide1. It is the first stage of the SpaceX Starship super heavy-lift launch vehicle, designed to be fully reusable. The booster is powered by 33 Raptor engines using sub-cooled liquid methane and liquid oxygen, with a maximum thrust of 7,590 tonnes (16,700,000 pounds) at sea level2.