Tutorial: Recovering Rocket Stages

The Space Shuttle and Falcon 9 v1.1 are examples of reusable or partially reusable rockets in the real world. This tutorial will explain how to recover a spent stage so you can get those extra funds!

The Problem

Many users have attached parachutes to their spent stages in the hope that it will parachute gently back to the planet. Unfortunately, this isn't the case. The game will automatically destroy any spacecraft that moves more than 2.5 kilometers away from your vehicle in the atmosphere. Thus, without mods, this feat is next to impossible to perform.

Ship Design

• The first stage of your spacecraft will be expendable (not reusable) because it will be separated too low in the atmosphere. I recommend using an RT-10 Solid Fuel Booster as the first stage because it is very cheap.

• The second stage will be the stage that you recover. It needs to have enough power to leave the atmosphere after being pushed some by the first stage. I recommend using four FL-T400 Fuel Tanks with an LV-T30 Liquid Fuel Engine under it. Remember to add 2 or more Mk2-R Radial-Mount Parachutes for recovery!

• The orbital stage will be used for orbit insertion and general maneuvering. Also this stage will contain most of your science modules. Add an FL-T400 Fuel Tank and an LV-909 Liquid Fuel Engine. Plan on attaching some SC-9001 Science Jr modules and Mystery Goo Containment Units for lots of science!

• The return stage will bring your kerbonaut home. I recommend using a Command Pod Mk1 with some Z-100 Rechargeable Battery Packs. Don't forget to add your Mk16 Parachute and a Communotron 16!