Video: SpaceX testing chopsticks to catch Super Heavy rocket falling from space

SpaceX has been known to develop the novel technology that makes a rocket land on its legs after launching satellite into orbit, only to be refurbished and launched again.

The Elon Musk-led company is now preparing for the most advanced rocket grab in the history of rocketry. The company is readying to catch the world's heaviest rocket booster, the Super Heavy, as it returns from space.

WATCH SPACEX READIES CHOPSTICKS FOR SUPER HEAVY

The ambitious plan involves catching the falling Super Heavy boosters using the launch tower's "chopstick" arms. This innovative approach aims to revolutionise rocket recovery and enhance the reusability of the company's Starship system.

Recent footage shared by SpaceX showcases tests of the chopstick mechanism at their Starbase facility in Texas. The company has been observed clamping the tower arms around a portion of a Super Heavy booster to evaluate the system's parameters.

This testing is crucial for verifying the forces the chopsticks will need to withstand during an actual catch attempt.

Starship Super Heavy

In preparation for future missions, SpaceX is modifying the design of the chopsticks. The new version will be shorter, extending just far enough to position vehicles over the mount. This adjustment is expected to provide better control authority during the catching process.

The development of this catch system follows the successful fourth test flight of Starship, where both the Super Heavy booster and Starship upper stage achieved soft splashdowns. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has expressed interest in attempting to catch the booster with the "mechazilla" arms as early as the next flight.

To support these advancements, SpaceX is constructing a second launch tower at Starbase. This expansion will allow for more frequent launches and testing of the Starship system, including the chopstick catch mechanism.

As SpaceX continues to refine this technology, it moves closer to its goal of a fully reusable launch system. The ability to catch and rapidly reuse Super Heavy boosters could significantly reduce launch costs and turnaround times, potentially revolutionizing access to space.