SpaceX aims for first-ever Starship upper stage tower catch

SpaceX is preparing for a historic maneuver during its latest Starship test flight. The company plans to use the giant mechanical arms on its launch tower, often called chopsticks, to catch the upper stage of the Starship megarocket. This attempt follows the vehicle’s recent liftoff from South Texas.

Flight goals and satellite deployment

The current mission includes multiple objectives beyond the dramatic recovery attempt. During the flight, the upper stage successfully deployed fifty-two next-generation broadband satellites into low Earth orbit. These spacecraft are part of a growing network designed to expand global internet coverage.

The future of rocket reuse

Catching rocket stages in mid-air is a key part of the company’s long-term transport vision. By recovering the hardware quickly, engineers can inspect, refurbish, and fly the vehicles again much faster. While the lower booster stage was diverted to a water landing earlier in the mission, the upper stage recovery attempt remains scheduled.

Megaconstellations ahead

The company has even larger plans for low Earth orbit. Future proposals involve building massive networks of spacecraft for broadband internet and artificial intelligence data centers. Achieving this scale will require rapid and frequent rocket launches, making reusable designs essential for success.