SPLASHDOWN
SpaceX to attempt first Starship spacecraft recovery on land in 15th flight
SpaceX plans to launch its Starship rocket for the 15th time to test spacecraft recovery. The mission will attempt to catch the spacecraft at the Texas launch site rather than discarding it at sea. Elon Musk envisions regular Starship launches to expand the Starlink satellite network and future AI capabilities. NASA has provided significant funding for the Starship project under the Artemis moon program.
SpaceX launch today: Elon Musk’s Starship Flight 15 double catch attempt - launch time, how to watch and why it matters
SpaceX launch: SpaceX is preparing for Starship Flight 15 on November 13, with Elon Musk’s company attempting to catch both the Super Heavy booster and Ship using mechanical arms at its Texas launch site for the first time. The test could move SpaceX closer to fully reusable rockets and support NASA’s future Moon mission plans.
NASA adopting Apollo's urgency to build a moon base and land astronauts within two years
NASA plans to return astronauts to the moon with the Artemis III mission set for next summer. Following that, Artemis IV aims to accomplish a historic moon landing by 2028, marking the first since the Apollo missions. Administrator Jared Isaacman emphasized the importance of efficiency and a fast-paced approach similar to Apollo's playbook. Docking exercises with SpaceX and Blue Origin's landers will occur before the moon base establishment.
New US passport design coming in 2028: Key things Americans need to know about November fairs
The US passport is getting a new look, with the ‘Flight of the Eagle’ design expected to begin shipping in 2028. Here’s what will change, when the redesigned passport may arrive and where Americans can find special passport application fairs in November 2026.
4 astronauts return to Earth after eight months in space
After spending eight months aboard the International Space Station, four astronauts have returned to Earth, a notable transition since they replaced a colleague who fell ill, making it NASA's first medical evacuation in decades. Throughout their mission, they participated in vital scientific research and commemorated American holidays in microgravity. The remaining seven astronauts continue to engage with visitors from around the world, showcasing camaraderie in their cosmic home.
NASA's Crew-12 undocks from ISS, set to splash down off California after nearly eight months in space
NASA's SpaceX Crew-12 has undocked from the International Space Station and is on its way home. The mission included significant scientific investigations aimed at future Moon and Mars missions. Crew members participated in critical spacewalks, with Jessica Meir and Sophie Adenot completing important tasks outside the station. NASA is targeting a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean off the California coast on Thursday.
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SpaceX's supersized Starship launches into orbit for the first time but flight ends early
SpaceX successfully launched its Starship spacecraft into orbit, marking a significant milestone for the company. The Starship delivered 26 advanced Starlink satellites with cheers from onlookers at the launch site. Although the mission was cut short, it demonstrated SpaceX's progress in achieving orbital capabilities. The spacecraft reentered over the Pacific Ocean before splashing down near Hawaii, showing careful flight management.
SpaceX Starship Flight 14: When and where to watch historic launch, 3 major firsts including Starlink V3 debut
SpaceX's Starship Flight 14 is set to attempt orbital insertion and deploy next-generation Starlink V3 satellites. The mission will also involve testing the spacecraft's heatshield during atmospheric reentry. Starship will work in conjunction with the Super Heavy booster to complete multiple objectives. The launch window opens later today and lasts for about 75 minutes. Successful execution of the mission is essential for future SpaceX operations in space.
In 1974, Skylab 4 astronauts returned after 84 days in orbit; flipped circuit breakers cut pitch-and-yaw control before Carr used backup mode for reentry
The Skylab 4 mission set a new record with astronauts spending 84 days in space, where they conducted crucial scientific experiments while circling the Earth. Upon their return, they were found to be in better health than their predecessors. However, a circuit breaker malfunction threatened their reentry, but the crew adeptly managed the situation and safely splashed down off the coast of San Diego.
In 1959, Able and Baker survived a 300-mile Jupiter rocket flight; Able died during surgery four days later, while Baker lived to 27
In 1959, two brave monkeys named Able and Baker embarked on a historic space mission. Tragically, Able passed away just four days post-mission due to complications during surgery. Meanwhile, Baker enjoyed a long and celebrated life, becoming a star at a space center, receiving numerous awards and fan letters for her pioneering role. Baker lived until 1984, reaching the remarkable age of 27.
On August 7, Elon Musk feared SpaceX’s Ship 40 was lost at sea. 11 days later, it became the first Starship upper stage ever recovered after returning from space
SpaceX has made a remarkable achievement by successfully retrieving Starship Ship 40 from the depths of the Indian Ocean. The spacecraft emerged from its recent journey intact following its splashdown. Engineers are preparing to evaluate the vessel's condition near Christmas Island, allowing them to gather essential data that telemetry could not provide. This recovery is a pivotal milestone for advancing the Starship program.
SpaceX's Starship rockets grounded pending investigation after test flight
SpaceX Starship launches are paused. An investigation is underway after a recent test flight. The rocket's first-stage booster experienced engine issues during its return. It did not achieve a controlled splashdown. The spacecraft itself completed its mission with a splashdown in the Indian Ocean.
How to watch NASA’s Artemis II splashdown: Timing, streaming platforms, and what to expect
How to watch artemis 2 splashdown, NASA live stream: NASA’s Artemis II mission is approaching its final stage as the Orion spacecraft prepares for reentry and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. The 10-day mission carried four astronauts on a historic journey around the Moon, marking the first crewed lunar mission profile in over 50 years.
What time is splashdown for Artemis II? Here's when NASA astronauts will return to Earth - All about the most dangerous 13 minutes of the mission during fiery Earth reentry
Artemis 2 Live Return: NASA Moon Mission Splashdown Update: NASA Artemis 2 astronauts are returning after historic lunar flyby around the Moon. The Orion spacecraft — named Integrity by its crew — is set to splash down in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego on April 10, 2026, at approximately 8:07 p.m. ET. Mission control monitors critical reentry as Artemis 2 prepares intense atmospheric heat shield test. The crew continues deep space operations inside Orion during final hours before landing. Artemis 2 mission marks major step toward future Moon and Mars exploration programs. Engineers prepare parachute deployment and recovery teams for safe Pacific Ocean astronaut retrieval process.
ISRO gives Gaganyaan crew module another smooth 'fall test' win
India's space agency ISRO has successfully completed the second integrated air drop test for the Gaganyaan mission. This crucial test ensures the safe recovery of the crew module during re-entry. The test was conducted at Sriharikota. This follows a successful first test. These air drop tests are vital for validating parachute systems and splashdown safety.
Artemis II astronauts hurtle home from moon toward splashdown
The four Artemis II astronauts are returning to Earth aboard the Orion spacecraft after a historic 10-day mission, marking the first crewed lunar voyage in over 50 years. Their splashdown in the Pacific Ocean will conclude a critical test of the spacecraft's heat shield and pave the way for future lunar landings and Mars exploration.
When is Artemis II set to splash down in the Pacific Ocean off San Diego? Date, time and what happens during re-entry explained
NASA Artemis II return to Earth: Artemis II is set to splash down in the Pacific Ocean at 1:07 am BST on Saturday, concluding its historic lunar journey. The mission's most perilous phase, re-entry, involves extreme heat and speeds, with the spacecraft's heat shield playing a critical role. Recovery teams will be on standby following the intense 13-minute descent.
No Plan B: NASA issues stark warning as Artemis II crew faces riskiest mission phase
NASA warns no plan B Artemis II: The Artemis II crew has set a new human spaceflight distance record, reaching 248,655 miles from Earth. However, NASA warns the most dangerous phase, re-entry, is ahead. The mission's success hinges on the Orion spacecraft's heat shield withstanding extreme temperatures, as preparations for splashdown are underway.
Meet the US warship tasked with recovering Artemis II crew upon touchdown
A San Diego-based US Navy warship, the USS John P. Murtha, is set to play a crucial role in recovering the Artemis II astronauts after their historic splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. Sailors have been drilling extensively to ensure a safe retrieval of the Orion capsule and its crew, a mission described as a fitting tribute to the ship's namesake.
Prayers, pride and excitement: Shubhanshu Shukla's family await his return
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's family in Lucknow eagerly awaits his return from the International Space Station after his 18-day mission. His parents shared their joy in watching him show them the wonders of space. As the Axiom-4 mission prepares to undock, the family is filled with excitement and prayers for his safe splashdown off the California coast.
Ax-4 Mission Return: Where will splashdown occur? See date, time, how to watch livestream and crew
The private Ax-4 astronaut mission will undock from the International Space Station on July 14. The SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule will return with four astronauts, including Peggy Whitson. NASA, SpaceX, and Axiom Space will livestream the undocking and return events. Splashdown timing remains unconfirmed due to weather factors.
Four space tourists return to Earth after a private flight over Earth's poles
Four space tourists, including Bitcoin investor Chun Wang, concluded a privately funded SpaceX flight to Earth's north and south poles with a Pacific splashdown. The mission, named Fram2, marked the first human spaceflight over both poles and was packed with scientific experiments and stunning views. The crew included a filmmaker, a robotics researcher, and a polar guide.
'Wanted to say hi': Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore welcomed by dolphins swimming around spacecraft. Watch video
Astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore returned from a nine-month mission to the ISS, splashing down off Florida’s coast. The SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule, also carrying Nick Hague and Aleksandr Gorbunov, safely re-entered Earth, encountering dolphins during recovery. Safety checks were completed, and the astronauts are set for rehabilitation in Houston.
Gujarat cheers! Sunita Williams' home village celebrates her safe return with aarti & prayers
Residents of astronaut Sunita Williams' native village, Jhulasan, celebrated her safe return to Earth with prayers and aarti. Williams, along with fellow Crew-9 members, landed safely after spending nearly nine months in space. The successful splashdown was confirmed by SpaceX, and the crew is undergoing medical checks and adjustment to Earth's gravity.
Why NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore will experience a splashdown
Sunita Williams homecoming: NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore are set to be back on Earth after their prolonged stay in the International Space Station (ISS) for almost 9 months. The capsule carrying both astronauts is aiming to make a splashdown off the Florida coast by early evening (local time).
Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore to return: Why does SpaceX's Crew Dragon take 17 hrs to deorbit
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are gearing up to head back to Earth on SpaceX’s Crew Dragon after spending nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Their mission was extended due to some technical hiccups with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft. The Dragon capsule is all set to splash down off the coast of Florida, marking the successful end of an important space mission.
Sunita Williams' return: Why SpaceX's Dragon is taking 17 hours while Russian Soyuz needs just 3.5 hours to bring back astronauts from ISS
NASA's astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams are returning to Earth from the ISS with SpaceX's Dragon capsule, set to splash down off Florida's Gulf Coast. Their return involves a meticulously planned 17-hour deorbit, descent, and splashdown sequence to ensure optimal landing conditions and safety.
SpaceX returns 4 astronauts to Earth; rare night splashdown
SpaceX returned four astronauts from the International Space Station on Sunday, making the first U.S. crew splashdown in darkness since the Apollo 8 moonshot.
SpaceX capsule departs station with 4 astronauts, heads home
NASA's Mike Hopkins, Victor Glover and Shannon Walker, and Japan's Soichi Noguchi, headed home in the same Dragon capsule that delivered them to the space station last November.
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