New version of Starship rocket ready for critical test flight
Summary
SpaceX is preparing to launch a new, improved version of its Starship rocket for a key test flight. The rocket has stronger engines, better safety features, and will be important for NASA’s plans to send astronauts to the moon by 2028.Key Facts
- The new version 3 Starship rocket includes upgrades and more powerful Raptor engines.
- The test flight is scheduled for Thursday from SpaceX’s Starbase launch site in Texas.
- This will be the 12th sub-orbital test flight for the Super Heavy-Starship integrated system.
- The first stage booster will separate and land in the Gulf of Mexico upon returning from launch.
- The Starship upper stage will enter a sub-orbital path and splash down in the Indian Ocean after about an hour.
- The flight will deploy 22 Starlink satellite simulators during the mission.
- The last two satellites will scan the rocket’s heat shield to gather data for future flights.
- NASA is relying on SpaceX to develop this rocket for landing Artemis astronauts on the moon by 2028 but is also preparing a backup lander with Blue Origin.
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