SpaceX has pushed back the launch of its Starship megarocket, the seventh test flight, by 48 hours. The delay was announced on social media without specifying a reason. However, it is likely due to weather conditions or technical issues that need to be resolved prior to liftoff.
The new launch date for the seventh Starship test flight has been set for January 15. For live coverage of this event, please visit this page.
The Starship program features a combination of the Super Heavy booster and the upper-stage spacecraft. The rocket’s maiden flight took place in 2023 and is capable of generating 17 million pounds of thrust when launched. Once certified, NASA plans to use it for various missions, including lunar and Mars excursions, as well as deeper exploration of our solar system.
This upcoming test will mark a significant milestone by launching a new-generation Starship spacecraft with upgraded features and deploying simulated satellites. The mission aims to demonstrate the rocket’s capabilities as a satellite deployment vehicle.
Each of the six previous test flights has seen improvements in performance, and SpaceX is working towards certification. In October’s fifth test, the company successfully caught the returning Super Heavy booster using mechanical arms attached to the launch tower. While not attempted during the sixth test, this maneuver will be tried again during the seventh flight.
SpaceX conducted two Starship flight tests in 2023 and four in 2024. This year, the company is seeking permission from the Federal Aviation Administration to carry out up to 25 Starship flights over the next 12 months.
Source: https://www.digitaltrends.com/space/spacex-delays-seventh-launch-of-starship-megarocket