splash-down

A spacecraft makes a splash-down in the ocean.

Definition

Noun (also written as splashdown) - The landing of a spacecraft on water: The controlled descent and arrival of a space vehicle onto the surface of a body of water (such as an ocean or lake), typically after re-entry into Earth's atmosphere.

Usage Examples

• (The spacecraft landed safely on water.)
• (Water landing.)
• (The landing on water was postponed.)

Advanced Usage

• "Splash-down zone": A designated area of ocean or lake where a spacecraft is expected to land.

  • The recovery team was already stationed in the splash-down zone before re-entry began. (The area prepared for water landing.)

• "Splash-down event": The specific moment or period when the spacecraft contacts the water.

  • The splash-down event was broadcast live on television. (The water landing moment.)

Variants and Related Words

• Splashdown (noun, alternative spelling): Same meaning; often used as a single word in technical contexts.

  • The splashdown was flawless. (The water landing was perfect.)

• Splash down (verb phrase): To land on water (used as a verb).

  • The capsule will splash down off the coast of Florida. (The spacecraft will land on water.)

Synonyms

• Water landing: A general term for any landing on water, not limited to spacecraft (e.g., for aircraft).
• Ditching: An emergency landing of an aircraft on water (less common for spacecraft).

Related Idioms