SpaceX sends 25th prototype Starship to Starbase launch pad

SpaceX continues preparations for a second attempt at an orbital launch of the Starship rocket system. The company has sent a new prototype upper stage to the launch platform at the Starship base in Texas.

Here's What We Know

The Starship rocket system consists of two stages. The first is the Super Heavy launch vehicle with 33 Raptor engines. The second is the Starship itself with six Raptor engines.

As part of a recent launch, which ended in an explosion at an altitude of about 40 km, SpaceX wanted to send a prototype spacecraft into orbit. It is called Ship 24. The 25th prototype, Ship 25, recently went to the launch pad.

The spacecraft will undergo static firing tests. As part of the test, SpaceX will briefly fire all six or more Raptor engines. During this time Starship will be attached to the ground and will not fly anywhere.

It is far from certain that it will be Ship 25 that will go on its second flight. SpaceX is developing several Super Heavy and Starship prototypes at once. Perhaps the final decision has been made, but it has not been officially announced.

Source: SpaceX