The Future of SpaceX: Third Test Flight of Starship Super Heavy

Recently, the Federal Aviation Administration has given SpaceX the green light for the third test flight of its Starship Super Heavy vehicle. This exciting development means that the test could take place as soon as tomorrow morning. SpaceX has set a 110-minute launch window beginning at 7AM CT / 8AM ET / 5AM PT on March 14th.

While the first two Starship launches were successful in some mission goals, both ended in explosions. The FAA has provided SpaceX with a list of 63 corrective actions to address issues such as leaking propellant. These corrective measures are crucial for ensuring the safety and success of the upcoming test flight.

The upcoming third test flight aims to build on the lessons learned from previous flights while attempting several ambitious objectives. These include successful ascent burn of both stages, opening and closing Starship’s payload door, a propellant transfer demonstration during the upper stage’s coast phase, the first-ever re-light of a Raptor engine while in space, and a controlled reentry of Starship. Additionally, SpaceX plans to try new techniques like in-space engine burns while prioritizing public safety.

For this third test flight, SpaceX is planning to have Starship splashdown in the Indian Ocean instead of closer to Hawaii like in previous attempts. This change in trajectory will allow for new techniques to be tested while ensuring the maximum safety of the public. By targeting the Indian Ocean for splashdown, SpaceX is aiming to demonstrate its capabilities in various aspects of space travel.

The upcoming third test flight of SpaceX’s Starship Super Heavy vehicle represents a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards space exploration. With the FAA’s approval and a clear set of corrective actions in place, SpaceX is poised to overcome past challenges and achieve new heights in the realm of spaceflight. By setting ambitious objectives for the test flight and prioritizing public safety, SpaceX is demonstrating its commitment to innovation and progress in the aerospace industry. As we look forward to the test flight tomorrow, the future of SpaceX and space exploration as a whole is filled with excitement and potential.