What factor primarily dictates the selection of the *closest* possible drone ship location for a mission?

Answer

Balancing immediate performance needs against the long-term need for rapid turnaround.

Selecting the nearest viable drone ship minimizes transport time back to the processing facility and reduces engine wear caused by longer return burns, thus optimizing turnaround time.

What factor primarily dictates the selection of the *closest* possible drone ship location for a mission?

#Videos

Why SpaceX Chose To Land Off Coast of the Bahamas - YouTube

Why SpaceX Really Lands In The Ocean (Physics) - YouTube

oceanSpaceXrocketsLanding