SpaceX moved the Starship upper stage back to its buildings after testing its engines. Workers rolled the Super Heavy booster out to the launch site for Flight 9. A Coast Guard notice points to May 21 as the first possible launch date. The launch might happen during sunset between 6:30 PM and 8:34 PM local time. SpaceX has not said anything official about when the rocket will fly.
The upper stage failed during its last two flights earlier this year. It blew up after separating from the booster on both Flight 7 and Flight 8. The new ship has bigger tanks, different engines, and better heat protection. Local cameras caught the recent engine test, which seemed to work well without problems. SpaceX needs to check everything before deciding whether the ship can fly again.
This flight marks the first time SpaceX will reuse a booster in the Starship program. The same booster first flew during Flight 7 several months ago. SpaceX wants to reuse both parts of the rocket system to save money. The company hopes the upper stage will survive and splash down safely in water. Success would help clear the path toward catching these rockets instead of landing them.
The upper stage failed during its last two flights earlier this year. It blew up after separating from the booster on both Flight 7 and Flight 8. The new ship has bigger tanks, different engines, and better heat protection. Local cameras caught the recent engine test, which seemed to work well without problems. SpaceX needs to check everything before deciding whether the ship can fly again.
This flight marks the first time SpaceX will reuse a booster in the Starship program. The same booster first flew during Flight 7 several months ago. SpaceX wants to reuse both parts of the rocket system to save money. The company hopes the upper stage will survive and splash down safely in water. Success would help clear the path toward catching these rockets instead of landing them.
