Grasshopper Precision Flight

In this video of a June 14th test flight, published last week,  the SpaceX Grasshopper makes an ascent to 1,066 feet, its highest point yet, and then comes back in for a precision landing utilizing a new set of sensors  “adding a new level of accuracy in sensing the distance between Grasshopper and the ground, enabling a more precise landing.”

While the ongoing tests in Grasshopper tests in Texas suggest the company is getting better all the time at going “low and slow,”  it should prove a fascinating experience to watch the progression of attempts to assert control over the first Falcon 9 V1.1 first stage after it has performed its primary function in each of the long line of operational  flights beginning with the Cassiope launch scheduled for September.