Falcon 9 Block 5 — Definitive Human-Rated Variant Debuts

The final Falcon 9 Block 5 variant debuted with the Bangabandhu-1 satellite. Block 5 features upgraded Merlin 1D+ engines, thermal protection for rapid reuse, titanium grid fins for improved aerodynamic control, and landing legs redesigned for fast refurbishment. SpaceX certified Block 5 for NASA human spaceflight.