Watch SpaceX catch Starship Super Heavy booster with 'chopsticks' in this animation
What does the new SpaceX video showcase?
The new SpaceX video showcases the company's plans for the Starship rocket system, including launching the Super Heavy booster and catching it mid-air with the "chopstick" arms of the launch tower at Starbase. This innovative approach aims to improve the efficiency of refurbishing and relaunching the vehicle. The animation offers a glimpse into the near future of spaceflight and SpaceX's vision for reusable rockets.
How does the Super Heavy plan to land after liftoff?
The Super Heavy, the first stage of SpaceX's Starship rocket, plans to land back on the launch mount after liftoff. This will be achieved by using the "chopstick" arms of the huge launch tower at Starbase to catch the booster mid-air. This method of landing will allow SpaceX to refurbish and relaunch the vehicle more efficiently.
Where is SpaceX's Starbase located?
SpaceX's Starbase is located in Cameron County, Texas, near the Gulf of Mexico. It is an industrial complex for Starship rockets, serving as a spaceport for orbital missions. Starbase is one of four active launch sites in the United States operated by SpaceX and employs more than 1,800 people4.