What's the difference between the tests on earth (as seen on youtube etc) where the engine runs the whole time and seems to display good throttle control and this type of landing?
The Grasshopper tests had a full tank of fuel and (if I recall) additional ballast, to counteract the thrust of the engines. That's what allowed them to hover and perform the various low-velocity translation tests.
Of course, these barge landings are the first high-velocity tests, so there'll be kinks to work out.
I was impressed by how small the barge looked compared with the F9 it's clever that the F9 can autonomously target such a small area. If they keep targeting 'Just Read the Instructions' by the time land based landings come to be it will be nailed. Awesome stuff!
Of course, these barge landings are the first high-velocity tests, so there'll be kinks to work out.