SpaceX is preparing for a new phase in the Starship program, which involves capturing the spacecraft using the Mechazilla launch tower's mechanical arms. According to Elon Musk, the 14th test flight will be the final one before the company attempts this maneuver during the 15th flight. The technology is currently being tested on the Super Heavy booster.
Musk estimates the probability of a successful capture on the first attempt at 50–60%. He noted that the previous test flight demonstrated enough precision that the ship could have been caught if the necessary infrastructure had been in place. The company is also working toward the goal of full system reusability, aiming to operate both the booster and the ship like commercial aircraft.
The company plans to conduct a test involving the relaunch of previously flown Starship and Super Heavy hardware. This milestone is expected to take place in late 2026 or, more likely, early 2027. SpaceX intends to achieve rapid turnaround times with minimal maintenance to significantly reduce the cost of orbital cargo delivery and support future lunar and Martian missions.
