SpaceX Conducts Successful Booster Test for Next Starship Launch
WASHINGTON — SpaceX has successfully test-fired the booster for its upcoming Starship launch, marking a significant milestone in the company’s progress. The test, which took place at SpaceX’s Starbase test site in Boca Chica, Texas, involved firing the Raptor engines in the Super Heavy booster designated Booster 9. SpaceX stated that all 33 engines successfully ignited, although two shut down prematurely. The full-duration static-fire test lasted approximately five to six seconds.
This recent test is an improvement over a previous attempt on August 6, when the engines fired for less than three seconds, and four of the Raptors shut down prematurely. If SpaceX is satisfied with the performance of Booster 9, it could signify one of the final technical milestones before the company is ready for a second integrated Starship/Super Heavy launch.
However, before proceeding with the launch, SpaceX still needs to obtain Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval, which includes modifications to its original Starship/Super Heavy launch license. SpaceX has already submitted a report on the failure of the April 20 launch, in which several Raptor engines in the Super Heavy booster shut down, leading to the loss of control and a tumbling descent. The FAA must review the report and assess whether SpaceX has made the necessary changes before approving a revised license. It is uncertain how long this process will take, but experts anticipate several weeks.
SpaceX has implemented various modifications based on the experience from the April launch. The launch pad now features a water deluge system designed to prevent damage caused by the Raptor plume, which previously sent sand and debris up to 10 kilometers from the launch site. The system was employed during the recent static-fire tests, but its effectiveness will only be fully demonstrated during an actual launch, as the engines were not fired at full thrust in the recent tests.
Additionally, the booster now includes an interstage ring on top with vents to accommodate a “hot-staging” approach. This method involves igniting the engines of the Starship upper stage while still attached to the Super Heavy booster, potentially improving the vehicle’s performance by up to 10%, according to SpaceX CEO Elon Musk.
Musk expressed confidence in the upcoming launch, stating that the company has made numerous other changes to the vehicle, totaling “well over a thousand,” which increases the probability of a successful flight. He estimated the likelihood of this next launch reaching orbit to be around 60%.
While SpaceX awaits FAA approval and finalizes preparations, space enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the potential success of the next Starship launch.