SpaceX has introduced a new grid fin design for its next-generation Super Heavy booster, which is 50% larger and stronger while reducing the number of fins from four to three. The updated design incorporates a catch function into the grid fins themselves, streamlining the recovery process and enhancing the booster’s aerodynamic control for future missions.

SpaceX is preparing for the 11th full-scale test flight of its Starship rocket, aiming for a successful launch from South Texas to the Indian Ocean. Scheduled for 6:15 pm CDT, this mission will utilize a previously flown Super Heavy booster and test a new landing burn engine configuration designed to enhance resilience against engine failures.

SpaceX successfully conducted a six-engine static fire test of its Starship rocket, marking a significant step towards its ninth flight test scheduled potentially for May 21. The upcoming launch aims to demonstrate the reusability of the Super Heavy booster for the first time, following two previous flights that ended prematurely.

SpaceX has made significant progress with its Super Heavy booster, successfully conducting a test fire of Booster 14, which has previously flown to the edge of space. This milestone brings the company closer to its goal of reusing the booster, even as it faces challenges with the Starship upper stage. The reflight of Booster 14 is crucial for the Starship program and highlights SpaceX's advancements in rocket reuse technology.