Overview

• SpaceX released renders showing upgraded grid fins that are 50% larger and stronger, reducing the count from four to three on its Super Heavy booster.
• The new fins sit lower on the vehicle with shafts and actuators relocated inside the main fuel tank and feature a catch point designed for tower-based retrieval.
• The company describes the redesign as part of a Version 3 booster evolution intended to improve high-angle descent control, remove landing legs and speed up booster turnaround.
• Analyst reports tie the grid-fin update to additional Version 3 proposals—such as Raptor 3 engines, a roughly 25% propellant increase and probe-and-drogue refueling—but these elements remain unconfirmed by SpaceX.
• U.S. Coast Guard maritime advisories outline a potential Flight 10 launch window in mid-August from Starbase, marking the first opportunity to test the revamped booster hardware.