SpaceX is gearing up for a more ambitious set of in-flight tests of its Starship vehicle on its next launch, as reported by Road Rug Cars. The company is aiming to launch the Starship/Super Heavy vehicle on its third integrated test flight as soon as March 14.
Unlike the previous test flights, the upcoming mission will feature a different profile, with a projected splashdown in the Indian Ocean nearly 65 minutes after liftoff. New elements added to the launch include firing of a Raptor engine while in space and opening and closing a payload bay door. Additionally, SpaceX plans to perform a propellant transfer test on the flight, a crucial step towards future tests for refueling Starship vehicles in orbit.
The pace of Starship development has been a topic of concern, especially in relation to supporting the first crewed Artemis landing. However, NASA and SpaceX seem to be working well together on the Human Landing System (HLS) version of Starship. According to NASA’s Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel, there has been a lot of positive learning from the flight tests, indicating good progress in the collaboration between the two entities.
The upcoming launch marks another significant milestone in SpaceX’s ambitious goals for the Starship program. Stay tuned to Road Rug Cars for more updates on this exciting development in space exploration.
