TECHNOLOGY · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
SpaceX Successfully Recovers Starship After 24 Days at Sea
WHY IT MATTERS
This recovery demonstrates SpaceX's progress in developing a reusable spacecraft, which could significantly reduce the cost of space travel and exploration.
What happened
SpaceX's recent Starship test flight has concluded with a successful recovery after 24 days at sea. The spacecraft splashed down in the Indian Ocean intact, defying expectations of a fiery disintegration.
Engineers had anticipated the ship's demise following a toppling over, but it remained intact, providing valuable data for assessment. Onboard sensors, cameras, buoys, and drones captured crucial information on the heat shield's performance.
This achievement marks a significant milestone for SpaceX's Starship program.
DEVELOPING STORY
Story timeline
PRIMARY SOURCES
Against all odds, SpaceX finally tugs Starship into port after 24 days at sea
Ars Technica · Stephen Clark · Discovery only; Condé Nast copyright terms apply