First flight of the Starfall capsule
On June 22, 2026, SpaceX lifted off from Cape Canaveral aboard a Falcon 9 carrying the previously unrevealed Starfall return capsule. The mission was purely experimental; the capsule completed several Earth orbits before executing a controlled re‑entry and landing.
Project objectives
According to the company, Starfall is intended to become a reusable system for bringing payloads back from orbit. Unlike the existing Dragon capsules, Starfall is designed to handle bulky or delicate cargo that has traditionally required disposable containers for return.
Technical characteristics
- Heat shield constructed from advanced carbon‑composite materials.
- Automated landing and impact‑damping system.
- Payload capacity up to 1,200 kg.
- Compatible with both Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy launch vehicles.
Upcoming test phases
SpaceX plans additional flights in the next months, targeting varied orbital parameters and landing sites to refine the capsule’s performance and reduce turnaround time between missions.
Future prospects
If the test program proves successful, Starfall could be used for returning scientific experiments, satellite components, or even lunar samples. The development expands SpaceX’s capabilities in both crewed and uncrewed space operations.