SpaceX Starship test to attempt first-ever spaceship 'catch'
SpaceX is preparing for its 15th Starship test flight, which will attempt to catch the upper-stage spacecraft using mechanical arms. This maneuver aims to achieve full reusability of the launch system, a critical step in reducing space mission costs.
Why it matters
Full reusability is considered the 'holy grail' of aerospace engineering and could fundamentally change the economics of space travel and satellite deployment.
by Anita Chang Beattie with Charlotte Causit in Washington
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Add to Preferred Sources SpaceX's Starship Flight 14 launches at Starbase in Texas on Sept. 28, 2026. Elon Musk's SpaceX was poised Friday to carry out its latest test of the world's biggest and most powerful rocket, the Starship, with plans for a groundbreaking "catch" of the spaceship following a day in orbit.
A successful capture of the Starship upper stage would mark a significant milestone in the space industry's decades-long pursuit of fully reusable spacecraft that can drastically reduce mission costs and make frequent travel possible.
"If successful, this will mark the first full recovery of an orbital launch system and a breakthrough moment in making Starship a reliable, rapidly reusable rocket," SpaceX said.
Headlinne story · 4 newsrooms
SpaceX Prepares Historic Double Catch Attempt for Massive Starship Rocket
What every outlet reported, where they differ, and how each framed it →
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6 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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