SpaceX Moves Starship Super Heavy Booster to Launch Pad for Testing
SpaceX has successfully transported its latest prototype, the Starship Super Heavy booster, to the launch pad for testing. The rocket, named Booster 9, is significant as it marks the return of SpaceX’s orbital launch mount at Starbase, the company’s facility in South Texas, since the failed liftoff of Starship’s first fully stacked launch on April 20.
During the initial test flight, Starship’s upper stage encountered issues and failed to separate from the Super Heavy booster as planned. Consequently, SpaceX decided to send a self-destruct command a few minutes after liftoff, resulting in damage to the orbital launch mount at Starbase.
Following the setback, SpaceX has been diligently working on repairing and upgrading the launch pad, including the installation of a steel plate to safeguard it during liftoff. The company is now confident in proceeding with the next steps towards conducting another orbital launch attempt.
Although the exact timeframe for the next launch is uncertain, there is speculation that it could occur within the next few weeks to several months. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk previously indicated the possibility of a launch in “6 to 8 weeks” via a tweet. However, the company must also navigate regulatory obstacles. A group of environmental organizations have filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), arguing that the agency failed to adequately assess the potential ecological damage caused by Starship launches in the South Texas region.
On Thursday (July 20), SpaceX tweeted images of Super Heavy Booster 9’s journey to the launch pad and stated that the rocket would undergo testing prior to Starship’s next test flight. Provided these tests progress smoothly, SpaceX aims to carry out an engine test firing and integrate it with the Starship upper stage, ultimately paving the way for liftoff, pending regulatory approvals.
With each development, SpaceX brings humanity a step closer to realizing the potential of space exploration and innovation.