• The bold maneuver marks a big step forward in SpaceX's development of reusable-rocket technology
  • The Falcon 9 photo revealed that the rocket is outfitted with "hypersonic grid fins" to increase stability during a return to Earth
  • SpaceX has attempted soft ocean splashdowns of the Falcon 9 first stage on three recent launches — in September 2013, and in April and July of this year.

Share This Article