SpaceX achieves an extraordinary milestone by capturing a descending rocket with mechanical arms.

US: In a remarkable and high-stakes test flight, SpaceX successfully launched its massive Super Heavy-Starship rocket on an uncrewed mission, utilizing giant "mechazilla" arms to capture the descending first stage—a groundbreaking engineering achievement. The Starship upper stage completed its planned trajectory, re-entering the atmosphere over the Indian Ocean and withstanding temperatures approaching 3,000 degrees before achieving a controlled splashdown.

The successful capture of the 23-story Super Heavy booster at the launch pad marked a significant step toward SpaceX's goal of developing fully reusable rockets, a feat previously unmatched by earlier space programs reliant on expendable vehicles. "A big step towards making life multiplanetary was made today," stated SpaceX founder Elon Musk.

Launching from Boca Chica, Texas, at 8:25 a.m. EDT, the 397-foot rocket delivered a stunning display as its 33 Raptor engines ignited. Just over three minutes later, the Super Heavy booster detached, flipped, and ignited 13 engines to guide itself back to the launch site, while the Starship upper stage continued its ascent.

The flight computer was prepared for a Gulf of Mexico splashdown in case of issues, but everything proceeded smoothly. As the booster neared the launch pad, the mechazilla arms successfully grasped it as the engines powered down, demonstrating SpaceX’s commitment to rapid reusability.

After improvements were made since the previous test flight, the Starship re-entered with upgraded heat shields and steering fins, emerging from the intense heat in good condition. Although the splashdown concluded with an apparent explosion, the mission was deemed a success.

The two-stage Super Heavy-Starship, currently the world’s most powerful rocket, is designed for full reusability. While the Super Heavy booster returns to its launch pad, the Starship is intended for missions to Earth orbit, the Moon, and eventually Mars.

This flight aimed to showcase the booster capture capability, crucial for quick refurbishment and relaunch. SpaceX's Falcon 9 rockets have successfully landed 352 boosters, but catching the Super Heavy with mechanical arms was a bold innovation.

SpaceX engineers invested significant time and resources to prepare for this milestone, continuously refining their technology. The company is contracted with NASA for the Artemis program to land astronauts near the Moon's south pole, and rapid reusability will be essential for the numerous flights needed for such missions.

Despite recent frustrations with the Federal Aviation Administration's licensing processes, which Musk has criticized for slowing innovation, the flight was granted approval just a day before launch, allowing for multiple test flights under the same plan.

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