SpaceX says Starship Flight 15 booster aborted 'chopsticks' landing catch after launch due to guidance issue (video)

Starship Flight 15 Test Flight

SpaceX shared insights regarding a landing catch issue during the Starship Flight 15 test flight. Conducted on Friday, Nov. 13, the test flight saw the first of two planned landing catches aborted.

Guidance Issue and Aborted Catch

According to the company, the booster's attempt to execute the 'chopsticks' landing catch was aborted due to a guidance issue. SpaceX stated it has an understanding of why the rocket missed its planned landing attempt.

Future Development Plans

The data gathered from this test will be used to refine the vertical landing and catch mechanisms for future Starship test flights as SpaceX works toward mission reliability.