SpaceX Finally Adresses Important Starship Catch Problem!

Summary

In this episode of 'What About It!?', host Felix discusses the latest SpaceX Starship updates, including rigorous testing for the innovative 'chopstick' catch system at the South Texas Starbase. He also covers the progress of the next-gen tower and the potential for Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket to finally launch. Additionally, there's speculation about Sierra Nevada Corporation possibly acquiring United Launch Alliance, hinting at significant shifts in the space industry landscape.

Takeaways

• 🚀 SpaceX is actively preparing for the Starship launch at the South Texas Starbase, with a focus on testing the catch mechanism for the rocket booster.
• 🔨 The 'chopsticks', or catch arms, are being rigorously tested to ensure they can safely secure the 220-ton rocket booster during landing without causing damage.
• 🛠️ The testing includes 'slap tests' to simulate the impact of the booster on the catch pins and cushioning rails, which are designed to absorb the landing forces.
• 🏗️ Construction of the next-generation tower at Starbase is nearing completion, with only a few segments left to stack and the installation of essential components pending.
• 🛡️ Protective steel plates are being added to the base of the new tower to safeguard internal components from heat damage during liftoff.
• 🔄 The infamous Starship prototype, Ship 26, has been moved to the Rocket Garden, sparking speculation about its future use, possibly for testing Raptor 3 engines.
• 🔄 Ship 31 is undergoing retiling for flight 6, with careful attention to the welds and nose cone to ensure heat resistance during re-entry.
• 🛰️ Block 2 Starships are in production, with Ship 33 being actively assembled in Mega Bay 2 and nearing completion for engine installation.
• 🏁 Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket is showing signs of progress, with segments spotted at Cape Canaveral and a potential launch date set for September 29th, pending delays.
• 💰 United Launch Alliance (ULA) is reportedly in talks for a possible acquisition by Sierra Nevada Corporation, which could significantly expand Sierra's capabilities in the space industry.
• 🤔 The acquisition of ULA by Sierra Nevada raises questions about how the smaller company would finance such a large purchase, with various speculative strategies considered.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the 'chopstick arms' mentioned in the script?

The 'chopstick arms' are part of SpaceX's catch mechanism designed to catch the Starship booster as it falls from space during its next flight. They are equipped with cushioning rails to slow the vehicle's speed and protect it from the impact of landing.

What is the significance of the 'two-armed slap' test mentioned in the script?

The 'two-armed slap' test is a part of the catch testing process where both arms of the catch mechanism collide against the vehicle to simulate the stress it will undergo during landing. This helps to ensure the structural integrity and effectiveness of the catch arms.

What is the current status of the next-gen tower building at SpaceX's Starbase?

The next-gen tower building at Starbase is nearing completion with only two more segments left to stack. The tower is being outfitted with essential components before stacking, which speeds up the process.

Why is SpaceX outfitting the tower segments with their essential components before stacking?

SpaceX is outfitting the tower segments with their essential components before stacking to make the construction process quicker and more efficient.

What is the role of the protective steel plates being added to the base of the new tower?

The protective steel plates are being added to the base of the new tower to shield the internal components from potential damage caused by the intense heat during liftoff.

What is the current status of Booster 14.1 and its significance for future Starship flights?

Booster 14.1 has been returned to the launch site for more catch testing and will lay the groundwork for a successful catch of Booster 12 during Starship flight 5, marking a significant change in the landing procedure compared to previous flights.

What is the significance of the 'Rocket Garden' mentioned in the script?

The 'Rocket Garden' is a location at SpaceX's Starbase where prototypes that are no longer needed or are not currently being worked on are stored. It serves as a storage and potential display area for these rocket prototypes.

What is the current status of Ship 26 and why is it significant?

Ship 26 is a prototype that has been moved to the Rocket Garden after having all its Raptor engines removed. Its significance lies in the possibility that it may be used for further testing with newer Raptor engines, making it potentially the first to receive Raptor 3s.

What is the current progress on Ship 31 and its importance?

Ship 31 is undergoing retiling for flight 6. The progress has slowed down as workers are focusing on the more fragile areas such as the welds and nose cone, which are critical for the ship's ability to endure re-entry heat.

What is the significance of the developments regarding Ship 33, the first Block 2 Starship?

Ship 33, the first Block 2 Starship, is actively being stacked in Mega Bay 2. Its development signifies the progression to the next generation of Starships, with the vehicle nearing completion and expected to receive its engines in the coming weeks.

What is the current status of Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket and its projected launch date?

Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket is in the final stages of assembly, with a 'no earlier than' launch date set for September 29th. The rocket's development has picked up pace, and recent activities suggest an imminent launch, although it could still be delayed.

What are the potential implications of Sierra Nevada Corporation's interest in acquiring United Launch Alliance (ULA)?

If Sierra Nevada Corporation were to acquire ULA, it would significantly expand its capabilities and presence in the space industry. However, the high price tag of $3 billion presents financial challenges, and the acquisition could involve significant risks or require creative financial strategies.