SpaceX is preparing for Starship’s first orbital flight test, which could take place as early as next week, pending regulatory approval. The private space firm recently tweeted photos of the fully stacked Starship at its Boca Chica facility in Texas, and Elon Musk himself shared an optimistic timeline on Twitter. In this blog post, we will discuss what to expect from this monumental event in SpaceX’s journey and the significance of Starship’s first orbital flight test.
A Moving Target for the Launch Date
The launch date for Starship’s first orbital flight has been a moving target, with Musk initially aiming for a March launch if the remaining tests went well. However, SpaceX still needs to obtain a launch license from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) before Starship can legally fly. According to Space.com, the FAA set a provisional April 17th launch window for Starship, but the actual date depends on the completion of the regulatory process.
The Significance of Starship‘s First Orbital Flight Test
The upcoming flight test is crucial for SpaceX’s ambitious plans to develop a reusable super heavy-lift rocket. The Starship system, comprising the Super Heavy booster and the Starship upper stage, is designed to carry 100-150 tons (100,000-150,000 kg) into orbit. In comparison, SpaceX’s workhorse rocket, Falcon 9, has a payload capacity of 22,800 kg. The successful completion of the orbital flight test will mark a significant milestone in the development of this powerful rocket system.
What to Expect During the Flight Test
During Starship’s first orbital flight test, the Super Heavy booster and the second stage (also called Starship) will fly together for the first time. The plan is for stage separation to occur roughly three minutes into the mission, with the booster and second stage splashing down into the Gulf and the Pacific Ocean, respectively. SpaceX will not attempt to recover these components.
Gathering Crucial Flight Data
SpaceX is likely to focus on gathering as much flight data as possible during the test to inform and improve the probability of success in future Starship development. The company has not made any promises regarding the completion of specific milestones like Max Q (the point of maximum pressure on the vehicle) or Starship ignition. However, the data collected during the test will be invaluable in advancing the development of the 394-foot-tall Starship system.
How to Watch the Launch
SpaceX plans to livestream the launch on its website, allowing space enthusiasts worldwide to witness this historic event. The exact date of the launch will depend on the technical readiness of the rocket and the weather. As of now, weather reports for Brownsville, Texas (adjacent to SpaceX’s Starbase launch and testing facility) indicate a high likelihood of a sunny and clear day – perfect for rocket flying.
Starship’s first orbital flight test is a monumental event in SpaceX’s journey towards developing a reusable super heavy-lift rocket system. While there are still regulatory hurdles to overcome, the anticipation and excitement surrounding this test are palpable. Stay tuned for updates on the launch date and don’t forget to catch the livestream of this historic event.
