SpaceX’s Robotic Arms Catch Starship Booster Mid-Air

Why in the news?

SpaceX successfully caught the Starship’s Super Heavy booster mid-air using robotic arms, advancing their goal of creating a fully reusable rocket system for future space missions.

SpaceX's Robotic Arms Catch Starship Booster Mid-Air

What is Starship?

  • Starship is a two-stage, heavy-lift rocket system by SpaceX, consisting of the Super Heavy booster and the Starship spacecraft.
  • It is the tallest rocket ever built (120 metres), surpassing the Saturn V (111 metres).
  • Designed to carry crew and cargo to destinations like Earth’s orbit, the Moon, and Mars, Starship aims to revolutionise space travel.

About the Mission:

  • SpaceX launched the rocket system from Texas using the Super Heavy’s 33 Raptor engines.
  • After separating from Starship, the booster was caught mid-air by robotic arms, called “Mechazilla,” instead of splashing into the ocean.
  • Starship continued its mission, completing an Earth orbit and landing in the Indian Ocean.

Why is this Significant?

  • The goal is a fully reusable rocket system to make space travel cheaper and faster.
  • The catching of Super Heavy is a major step toward rapid rocket reusability, with potential for quick re-launches.
  • Starship is key to SpaceX’s plans, including NASA’s lunar Artemis mission and future Mars expeditions.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times