Spacecraft US 12,503,253 B2 Not in force

Rocket landing systems

This invention describes a system designed to catch and stabilize a rocket as it lands. It uses several movable jaw-like structures that can close in to grasp the rocket, along with hook-shaped parts to secure it. These jaws can also adjust vertically to cushion the rocket's impact during capture.

Why it matters: Filed only two years ago, the fundamental engineering challenges of precisely capturing a multi-ton rocket stage with mechanical jaws and hooks remain. Significant hurdles in robust, high-speed mechanical actuation and control systems persist.

Status: Not in forceListed as no longer active. The specific reason is not in the record we hold.
How hard to build: SpecializedLarge mechanical jaws, actuators, precision control system

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