Designers of the Rapido 60, Morrelli & Melvin, have just entered the space race in spectacular style.
Morrelli & Melvin have worked with Argo Rocket Marine Services to develop a rocket recovery vessel which will significantly reduce space launch and rocket component recovery costs by as much as 10 per cent.
According to the company's press release,
"...the recovery vessel is unparalleled in its maneuvering abilities, making it easy to position underneath rocket components descending by parachute. It is capable of sway (sideways) accelerations as great as 8.9m/s2 (almost 1 g) and has a top speed of 30 knots.
"The excellent maneuverability is due to the four-point configuration with 25ft individually rotating hulls connected by a 90ft x 90ft 'X' frame. This innovation allows the vessel to achieve “sway” turns, whereby it can rapidly move in a lateral direction without having to turn the entire vessel.
"Instead of having to turn one or more long hulls of a conventional monohull or catamaran, the short individual hulls are far more maneuverable and can be rotated quickly and with less energy. The design is also lightweight and minimalist, further contributing to performance and maneuverability..."
Further information
Visit Morelli & Melvin's announcement dated 12 February 2019 on their facebook page
Visit Argo Rocket Marine Services' website.
Visit Rapido Trimarans' website