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SpaceX Starship returns to landing pad from orbit, acing test for reusable rockets

Starship upper stage’s successful return after orbiting Earth marks a key engineering milestone

On Saturday, Nov 14, SpaceX's Starship spacecraft completed its first successful return from orbit, landing at the launch site in Texas after a 22-hour journey in space. The 52-meter Starship descended into the "Mechazilla" mechanical arms of SpaceX's Starbase facility, still roaring with engine power. Charred from the intense heat of re-entry, the rocket was inspected by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and engineers shortly after its return.

This successful recovery marks a major milestone in SpaceX's quest to develop a fully reusable rocket, a goal that could revolutionize space travel by making it as affordable and convenient as commercial air travel.

Written by urgent.news from The Business Times - Companies & Markets's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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