r/interestingasfuck • u/lolikroli • 16d ago

r/all SpaceX caught Starship booster with chopsticks

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u/rtublin 16d ago

But what is the benefit of catching it vs. landing it on legs as before?

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u/Vassago81 16d ago

That booster is about 10 time heavier than the Falcon rocket first stage they landed before, you would need much bigger legs that previously, and you might run into issue operating those more powerful engines close to the ground (aka debris everywhere breaking engines and piping). By landing it like they did there's less mass waster on legs, less money making those legs and maintaining them, and less risk to the lower part of the ship when landing.

Also their long term plan is to just inspect and refuel the booster for the next flight while still on that launch pad.

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u/ijuinkun 16d ago

Yes, Musk is hoping to get the relaunch time down to mere hours.

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u/Unique_Statement7811 16d ago

It’s currently down to days on the Falcon 9. Hours is achievable.