SpaceX’s Starship is set to undergo its first integrated flight test in the third week of April, pending regulatory approval. This test will mark the first time that a fully integrated Starship and Super Heavy rocket will be tested, with the aim of creating a fully reusable transportation system that can carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars and beyond. Success will be measured by the amount of knowledge gained, which will inform future development of Starship.
The SpaceX team has already completed multiple sub-orbital flight tests of Starship’s upper stage from Starbase, which have validated the vehicle’s design and proved that it can fly through the subsonic phase of entry before re-lighting its engines and flipping itself to a vertical configuration for landing. In addition, the team has conducted numerous tests of the Super Heavy rocket, including a full-duration 31 Raptor engine test – the largest number of simultaneous rocket engine ignitions in history.
The team has also constructed the world’s tallest rocket launch and catch tower, which stands at 146 meters tall and is designed to support vehicle integration, launch, and catch of the Super Heavy rocket booster. However, for the first flight test, the team will not attempt a vertical landing of Starship or a catch of the Super Heavy booster.
A live webcast of the flight test will begin approximately 45 minutes before liftoff. As with all developmental testing, the schedule is subject to change, so be sure to stay tuned to SpaceX’s social media channels for updates. The company appreciates all of the support and encouragement it has received as it ventures into new territory and works towards a future where humanity is exploring among the stars.
