The Silicon Greybeard reports that they are testing this mechanical monster. I think the idea is that if they can catch the falling rocket by its grid fins, they can dispense with the landing legs, which is going to save considerable weight, which would be very good. Whether they can make this scheme work is another question. From what I have seen of the successful booster landings they have made, they have sufficient accuracy. It just seems very risky. If something goes wrong, the tower as well as the rocket could be damaged. But being as the tower is a ground based structure, if should not be nearly as expensive as a booster with its phalanx of very expensive rocket motors. So damaging the tower may be an inconsequential risk.
I still like rockets that land on their tail fins.
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| Destination Moon - Entertainment Pictures / Alamy Stock Photo |
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