Starship is ready for launch
SpaceX
SpaceX is preparing for Starship, the most powerful rocket ever built, to launch its next test. Here’s all you need to know.
When is the fourth Starship test launch?
The launch is expected to happen in the next week or so, with a possibility of June 5 pending regulatory approval by the US Federal Aviation Administration.
There are indications that the launch may happen on June 5 as nearby roads in Cameron County, Texas, where SpaceX's Starbase launch site is located, will be closed for “flight testing.” Alternative closures may also be scheduled on June 6 and 7 if needed.
How can I watch the Starship launch?
SpaceX will have a live webcast starting approximately 30 minutes before the launch.
Where is Starship going?
The fourth test flight will focus on returning Starship from orbit and conducting a mock landing in the ocean. Both Starship and the Super Heavy first stage booster will make a “soft splashdown” in the Gulf of Mexico and Indian Ocean, respectively.
What has happened in Starship launches so far?
All three previous Starship launches have ended in explosions as part of SpaceX's strategy to learn from failures quickly.
The third test flight on March 14 reached space and achieved several milestones despite failing to make a planned soft landing.
What if this launch fails?
Failures provide data and experience for SpaceX to improve future launches. SpaceX’s ability to iterate quickly has shown progress with each launch.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
