In this update, we dive deep into the ongoing efforts to recover the SpaceX Starship following its splashdown in the Indian Ocean. While the flight was a success in the air, the transition to a waterborne vessel presents unique challenges for the maritime salvage teams on site. Key Highlights of the Salvage Operation: 🚀The Recovery Fleet: An analysis of the three vessels on location—Go Australis, Normand Ranger, and Skimmer Tide—and their specific roles in the operation. 🚀Towing Logistics: Why towing a 300-foot stainless steel rocket over 850 nautical miles to Dampier, Australia, could take upwards of two weeks. 🚀Restricted Maneuverability: Examining AIS data that suggests a tow line may already be affixed, as the Normand Ranger signals limited ability to maneuver. 🚀Stability Issues: The physical challenges of towing a craft not designed for water, including the risk of rolling, yawing, and managing the submerged forward fins. 🚀Salvage vs. Recovery: A look at the potential goals of the mission—whether it's a full recovery or a critical material salvage of the heat shield before the craft potentially sinks. Contact What's Going on With Shipping via: Patreon: www.patreon.com/wgowshipping Twitter: @mercoglianos Bluesky: @mercoglianos.bsky.social Facebook: @wgowshipping Email: mercoglianosal@gmail.com 0:00 - Introduction & The Starship "Voyage Home" 0:58 - Salvage Update: Current Location in the Indian Ocean 1:47 - Meet the Salvage Fleet: Go Australis, Norman Ranger & Skimmer Tide 3:55 - Tracking the Vessels: Movements & Rendezvous 5:57 - The Challenges of Affixing a Tow to Starship 8:21 - AIS Signal Analysis: Restricted Maneuverability Detected 10:07 - Technical Hurdles: Hard Points, Listing & Stability 11:59 - Voyage Planning: Distance & Time to Port 12:44 - Current Status & Final Thoughts 13:58 - Upcoming Episodes & Channel Support Marine Traffic www.marinetraffic.com