SpaceX has obtained a launch license from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its upcoming Starship Flight 7 test flight, clearing the way for the company’s next launch of the world’s largest rocket. The license was issued on December 17, just two weeks before the expected launch date.
The FAA’s Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation, Kelvin B. Coleman, stated that the license modification is “well ahead” of the Starship Flight 7 launch date and demonstrates the agency’s commitment to enabling safe space transportation.
SpaceX has not yet set a specific target date for the flight but expects it to take place in early or mid-January 2025. This will be the company’s seventh major test launch of its Starship megarocket, with the aim of preparing for future launches carrying crew and cargo to orbit, Mars, and beyond.
The Starship Flight 7 mission profile involves launching the combined spacecraft and rocket from Boca Chica, Texas, attempting to catch the Super Heavy booster rocket at the launch site, and then landing the Starship vehicle in the Indian Ocean. This test will help SpaceX refine its reusable heavy-lift system and prepare for future missions.
NASA has selected the Starship vehicle for its Artemis 3 astronauts’ lunar mission in 2027, while SpaceX has already sold flights on the spacecraft to private customers, including billionaire Jared Isaacman.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/spacexs-starship-flight-7-test-flight-gets-faa-launch-license-but-when-will-it-fly