Elon Musk’s SpaceX has achieved a groundbreaking success with its Starship rocket booster safely returning to Earth. This is the first time in the world a rocket booster has made such a return, marking a major milestone for SpaceX.
During its fifth test flight, the lower half of the booster, known as the Super Heavy Booster, was secured by mechanical arms next to the launch tower after separating from the upper part of the rocket. This landing occurred at the Boca Chica launch pad in Texas. SpaceX had initially prepared for the possibility of the booster landing in the Gulf of Mexico if the test failed. However, it successfully returned, raising hopes that SpaceX’s goal of developing a fully reusable rocket may soon become a reality.
This success comes after earlier setbacks. During SpaceX’s first launch attempt 18 months ago, the rocket exploded shortly after takeoff. However, SpaceX views these challenges as a necessary part of rapid development, aiming to gather as much data as possible to refine its rocket system.
In the latest test, the ship and booster separated about 2 minutes and 45 seconds into the flight. The booster then began its descent back to Earth, slowing down as it re-entered the atmosphere. Two minutes before landing, final checks were conducted, and the booster was gently held by mechanical arms amidst flames.
Meanwhile, the upper part of the rocket ignited its engines and continued its journey, successfully landing in the Indian Ocean 40 minutes later. NASA, which is heavily funding SpaceX’s Starship development, was pleased with the outcome.
SpaceX aims to use Starship to land astronauts on the moon by 2026. However, regulatory hurdles remain, with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reviewing the environmental impact of future launches. Elon Musk’s team hopes to relaunch soon, pending approval.
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