SpaceX delayed the eighth test flight of its Starship Super Heavy rocket on Tuesday after computers detected technical issues. The company plans to try again on Wednesday, CNN reported.
The announcement came during a livestream after multiple holds were triggered by both Starship and the Super Heavy booster, stopping the countdown just 40 seconds before liftoff.
The rocket was set to launch from South Texas, carrying four mock satellites for a test flight. SpaceX said if the issues are resolved quickly, another launch attempt could happen on Tuesday.
The flight follows the previous attempt in January, where the booster successfully returned, but the upper stage disintegrated over the Caribban. SpaceX aims for a smoother outcome this time.
What is Starship?
Starship is the largest and most powerful rocket ever built. It stands 403 feet tall, making it nearly 100 feet taller than the Statue of Liberty. Its booster, called Super Heavy, is powered by 33 Raptor engines that generate 16 million pounds of thrust at full power.
The upper stage, also called Starship, has a stainless steel design with large fins, resembling classic science-fiction rockets. It is designed to transport people to the Moon and Mars. SpaceX has already tested its basic design and aims to improve reliability over multiple test flights this year. The company could get approval for up to 25 launches in 2025.
What went wrong last time?
The previous test started well, with all 33 booster engines firing and separating correctly. However, two minutes into the upper stage’s flight, sensors detected a pressure rise in a section called the “attic,” likely caused by unexpected vibrations. This led to propellant leaks and fires, shutting down five of six engines. Eventually, the self-destruct system triggered, causing the spacecraft to break apart.
What has SpaceX changed?
To prevent the same failure, SpaceX has modified the fuel lines, adjusted engine thrust levels, and added more vents to release trapped propellants. They also introduced a system to purge flammable gases from the attic area.
What will happen during the flight?
During this test, Starship will release four dummy satellites designed to mimic SpaceX’s Starlink internet satellites. These will burn up in the atmosphere over the Indian Ocean. The upper stage will also practice a controlled reentry, pivoting into a landing position before hitting the water. Additionally, SpaceX will attempt another booster recovery to refine its reusability technology.