Explainer Sep 6, 2026
Reusable rockets: where the field actually stands
One booster has now flown 37 times, launch costs sit near $2,600/kg against the Shuttle's $54,500, and SpaceX flew 165 orbital missions in 2025 — more than the rest of the world combined. In 2026 Blue Origin and China finally joined the reuse club, and Starship still has not been caught.