All articles tagged with #booster recovery
Blue Origin is preparing for the second launch of its New Glenn rocket, which will carry NASA's ESCAPADE probes to Mars and attempt to recover its booster for the second time, aiming to demonstrate reusability and compete in the heavy-lift launch market. The launch is crucial for Blue Origin's reputation and future contracts, with success potentially reshaping the industry.
SpaceX has successfully test-fired the 33 Raptor engines on its Super Heavy booster for the next Starship flight, despite the Falcon 9 being grounded due to a recent launch failure. The test, conducted at Starbase in South Texas, verified all systems functioned normally. SpaceX plans to attempt a bold booster recovery using "chopsticks" on the launch tower and will test an upgraded heat shield on the upper stage. The next Starship flight could launch as early as August, with ongoing construction for additional launch pads to support future missions.
Rocket Lab is set to launch four private satellites into orbit using its Electron rocket, with the mission dubbed "Four of a Kind." The satellites, built and operated by Spire Global, will provide space situational awareness services. After deployment, Rocket Lab plans to recover the Electron's first stage by bringing it back to Earth for a soft Pacific Ocean splashdown, as part of its efforts to make the first stage reusable. If successful, this will be Rocket Lab's 43rd Electron mission and its first launch of 2024.
SpaceX successfully launched its 30th mission of the year from Cape Canaveral, Florida, carrying a communications satellite for Indonesia. The Falcon 9's first-stage booster made its 12th flight and was recovered on the company's droneship in the Atlantic. The satellite will provide broadband internet and communications capability for public use facilities in Indonesia's rural regions. SpaceX has flown 29 of the 30 launches from the Space Coast this year, with the only other coming from Relativity Space. United Launch Alliance is scheduled for its first launch of the year early Wednesday.