Because the rocket goes back to launch sites, lots of people will have really good cameras set up, lots of views. We will see this catch attempt with a lot of detail.
Because the rocket goes back to launch sites, lots of people will have really good cameras set up, lots of views. We will see this catch attempt with a lot of detail.
Newer versions of the ship have smaller flaps, hinging from points offcenter, so that they are protected by the body of the ship.
Images probably demonstrate this better than words.
Current: https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?action=dlattach;...
New: https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?action=dlattach;...
If they never get the second stage working with reusability they could strip the design down to a simple S2
Second stage reentry is necessary for this thing to ever carry people, ostensibly the mission the ship was designed for. It is a hard requirement.