Falcon 9 landing legs function as aerodynamic surfaces

the verdict

SUPPORTED

the evidence backs this

Recorded sources

2 sources for · 0 against

Counts group repeated records of the same source within each side. They do not measure evidence strength or source independence.

Is it true that Falcon 9 landing legs function as aerodynamic surfaces?

Yes. Peer-reviewed research establishes that the Falcon 9 landing legs interact with aerodynamic forces during descent, contributing to the booster's unique sonic boom signature.

Verdict: SUPPORTED · 2 sources for, 0 against · Last checked 5 Aug 2026

The analysis

Judged against the evidence record for claims of this kind.

Evidence for · 2

Why does the Falcon-9 booster make a triple sonic boom during flyback? An initial analysis.

2025

Identifies that the lower portions of the booster, including folded landing legs, create a rearward-migrating rarefaction wave.

Get citation

Anderson, M. C. & Gee, K. L. (2025). Why does the Falcon-9 booster make a triple sonic boom during flyback? An initial analysis.. peer-reviewed literature. https://doi.org/10.1121/10.0035649

See more details

More for · 1

Grid fins and landing gear responsible for Falcon-9 booster’s unique sonic boom

2025

States that landing gear are responsible, alongside grid fins, for the booster's unique sonic boom dynamics.

Get citation

Liebendorfer, A. (2025). Grid fins and landing gear responsible for Falcon-9 booster’s unique sonic boom. peer-reviewed literature. https://doi.org/10.1063/10.0035947

Related receipts

Is it true that Landed Falcon 9 boosters remain stable on drone ships using landing legs and grid fins? SUPPORTED related question, same topic
Is it true that an adhesive surface increases aerodynamic drag and air resistance? SUPPORTED related question, same topic

What does the evidence say?

Judged against the evidence record for claims of this kind.

Receipt History

first checked05 Aug 2026

judged → SUPPORTED · 6705 Aug 2026

Anyone with this link can read the claim and its public receipt, including any personal information in that text. Open permanent receipt.

Check your own claim

Challenge the receipt

I have a source that contradicts this verdict I have a source that supports it No source: request a receipt review Requests are recorded for review. This does not start an automatic check or guarantee a response time.

See the evidence timeline

Citation formatting by citeproc-js (Frank Bennett) and the Citation Style Language project. Source and licenses.

This receipt is an automated verdict against our published method · not an opinion about any author or publication.
Terms · Privacy · How verdicts work