Elon Musk has confirmed that SpaceX’s next Starship test launch will be delayed. Initially, the company aimed for a sixth liftoff this week, but now it will take place “three or four days” later. The new target is set for “probably sometime next week.” This delay comes as part of a backup window running through January 16.
The seventh Starship launch will mark the first time SpaceX attempts to deploy a payload using the reusable ship. The company plans to test its deployment capabilities by launching up to 10 Starlink simulators. The Starship will also splashdown in the Indian Ocean instead of catching it with the “Mechazilla” arm.
Following its last launch, SpaceX told the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that it aims to gain approval for 25 launches per year. Prior to the flight, Musk outlined four objectives: restarting Raptor engines in vacuum, daylight landing, higher peak heating reentry, and a faster/harder booster catch.
Source: https://www.teslarati.com/spacex-delays-starships-7th-launch