What is Mechazilla?

About Mechazilla: 

• It is the nickname for the large 400-ft rocket-catching structure at SpaceX’s Starbase.
• Feature
  • It features two enormous mechanical arms, often referred to as “chopsticks.” These arms are designed to catch the Super Heavy booster in mid-air as it returns to Earth.
• Working of Mechazilla
  • Launch and Ascent: The SpaceX Starship rocket, along with its Super Heavy booster, launches from the ground.
  • Booster Separation: After reaching a certain altitude, the booster separates from the upper stage of the rocket.
  • Controlled Descent: The booster begins descending back to Earth, using precision thrusters to control its path.
  • Catching the Booster: As the booster nears the landing site, Mechazilla’s giant arms move into position. The booster hovers briefly before the arms catch it, ensuring a safe and controlled landing.
• Significance:
  • Reusable: This new method of rocket recovery is far more efficient and reusable compared to traditional landing techniques.
  • Cost effective: By catching the booster midair, SpaceX can quickly refurbish and reuse it, significantly reducing launch costs and increasing the sustainability of space missions.

Q1: What is Starship?

Starship is a super-heavy-lift rocket and spacecraft built to carry immense cargo and numerous astronauts into deep space.

Source: What is ‘Mechazilla’? The giant arms that caught the massive Starship rocket midair

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