Part 8/14:
Reusability is the cornerstone of SpaceX's strategy to lower launch costs and enable sustainable space expansion. The company has successfully demonstrated numerous landing recoveries for boosters and ships, but perfection is still sought—particularly for the orbital heat shield and propellant tanks.
Orbital Refilling:
One transformative technology is in-orbit refueling, which allows a spacecraft to transfer large quantities of propellant in orbit, enabling it to travel farther and carry heavier cargo. This process resembles aerial refueling but takes place in the vacuum of space.