SpaceX’s Starship Rocket Stacked on Launchpad for Upcoming Test Flight

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk shared a video showcasing the stacking of the Starship rocket on the launchpad in preparation for its fourth test flight. The colossal rocket, measuring 120 meters tall, is comprised of the Super Heavy booster and the Starship spacecraft. However, the launch is contingent upon approval from the Federal Aviation Administration, which is currently reviewing the third test flight conducted two months ago. SpaceX aims to increase the frequency of Starship launches, as well as secure permission to launch from the Kennedy Space Center, paving the way for more frequent flights. The ultimate goal is to land both stages of the rocket post-launch for reuse, similar to the Falcon 9 rocket. Starship is intended for missions to the moon and potentially the first crewed trip to Mars in the future.

Starship’s Fourth Test Flight Set for June, According to Elon Musk

SpaceX’s Starship rocket is poised for its fourth test flight as early as June, according to Elon Musk. The upcoming flight will mark a significant milestone in the development of the world’s most powerful rocket. The Starship has undergone three test flights to date, with varying degrees of success. The third flight, conducted in March, was the most successful, achieving many of the mission goals. SpaceX is awaiting a launch permit from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) before proceeding with the fourth flight. The Starship is intended to play a crucial role in NASA’s Artemis program, aiming to transport crew and cargo to the moon. The rocket is also being considered for future missions to Mars. The FAA is currently conducting an environmental review for proposed Starship launches from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, which would provide SpaceX with an additional launch location.

FAA to Review SpaceX’s Starship Launch Plans at Kennedy Space Center

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced an environmental review of SpaceX’s plans to launch the Starship from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The review is necessary as SpaceX has made changes to its plans since NASA’s previous assessment five years ago, including an increased launch frequency and a more powerful rocket design. The Starship, with its colossal thrust of 17 million pounds at launch, has a greater potential to impact the local environment than any other vehicle launched from Florida’s Space Coast. The FAA’s review will assess the potential effects of Starship launches on wildlife, air quality, and noise levels.

Scroll to Top