In this episode of What's Going on With Shipping, we dive into the latest developments in the high-stakes salvage of SpaceX's Starship 40 following its splashdown in the Indian Ocean. ⚓Satellite Insights: We analyze recent satellite imagery showing the three salvage vessels—Normand Ranger, Skimmer Tide, and Go Australus—positioning to recover the 170-foot spacecraft. ⚓Salvage Techniques: A look at how the Normand Ranger might be using specialized cranes and a unique "platform" to lift the Starship and prepare it for transport. ⚓The Challenge of the Tow: Why towing a vessel not designed for the sea requires a "catenary" line to absorb shock and a sea anchor to prevent dangerous pitching and yawing. ⚓AIS Tracking: Using Marine Traffic data to monitor the progress of the salvage fleet as they begin the slow, 800+ mile journey to Dampier, Australia. ⚓Timeline to Dampier: We calculate the estimated arrival time based on current speeds and the unpredictable weather conditions of the Indian Ocean. Contact What's Going on With Shipping via: Patreon: www.patreon.com/wgowshipping Twitter: @mercoglianos Bluesky: @mercoglianos.bsky.social Facebook: @wgowshipping Email: mercoglianosal@gmail.com Marine Traffic www.marinetraffic.com Satellite imagery captures race to recover 170-foot SpaceX Starship in the Indian Ocean https://www.cnn.com/2026/08/03/science/spacex-starship-indian-ocean-recovery-satellite-images