SpaceX is set to launch its eighth Starship rocket attempt, marking a significant step towards the company’s goal of developing a fully reusable spacecraft. The upcoming flight test, scheduled to take place on Friday, will not only replicate the booster catch but also attempt to return the Starship vehicle and upper stage to the launch site.
Elon Musk announced the plan earlier this week, stating that “Starship 8 flies Friday.” However, it’s essential to note that SpaceX still needs formal approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) before proceeding with the launch. The FAA has been a target for Musk’s criticism over regulatory issues and job cuts.
During the flight test, mission operators will attempt to deploy four Starlink simulators, similar in size and weight to next-generation Starlink satellites. They will also aim to perform a third return and catch of the rocket booster at the launch pad, which would cause sonic booms in the area.
The success of this launch is crucial for SpaceX’s ambitious plans to send humans to the moon and Mars. The company envisions the Starship as a fully reusable transportation system capable of carrying both humans and cargo to Earth’s orbit, the moon, and even Mars.
Previous Starship tests have shown improvement with each iteration, with the most recent test ending in a fiery explosion due to propellant leaks and fires in the aft section. Despite this setback, SpaceX continues to work towards its goals, including increasing Starship launches in 2025.
The FAA has proposed a plan to quintuple flight tests to 25 this year, which Musk’s request is currently being considered. The company aims to send humans to Mars by late 2026 and crewed flights in 2028. With the success of this launch, SpaceX will be one step closer to achieving its ambitious goals.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/02/26/elon-musk-spacex-starship-flight-8-test-texas/80438111007