Rocket Lab is set to capture an Electron rocket booster in mid-air as it returns from space with a custom Sikorsky S-92 helicopter tomorrow (April 28) if weather conditions are favorable. The rocket will be used to transport a payload of 34 commercial satellites. Capturing a returning rocket stage mid-air is more complex than you may think, as several critical milestones must align perfectly to ensure a successful operation.
What are some of the milestones you ask? First, Rocket Lab’s Sikorsky S-92 will move into position in the capture zone, approximately 150 nautical miles off New Zealand’s coast, one hour prior to liftoff. When the first stage booster enters the capture zone, the S-92 will attempt to rendezvous with the returning stage and capture the parachute line via a hook. After it’s captured and secured, the helicopter will then transport it back to land where Rocket Lab will analyze and assess its suitability for reflight. Now if only the CopterPack Backpack Helicopter could be modified for this task.
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We’re excited to enter this next phase of the Electron recovery program. We’ve conducted many successful helicopter captures with replica stages, carried out extensive parachute tests, and successfully recovered Electron’s first stage from the ocean during our 16th, 20th, and 22nd missions. Now it’s time to put it all together for the first time and pluck Electron from the skies,” said Peter Beck, Rocket Lab founder and CEO.
