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SpaceX Aims for Indian Ocean Splashdown
25 Jul
Summary
- SpaceX's Starship is set for a new test flight from Texas.
- The flight aims for controlled splashdowns in the Indian Ocean and Gulf.
- Success is crucial for an upcoming NASA moon mission test.
SpaceX is preparing its Starship megarocket for a crucial test flight from Starbase, Texas. This attempt follows a previous launch that was aborted due to engine ignition failures. A 90-minute launch window is set to open on July 25, 2026.
The flight, designated Flight 13, is designed as a one-hour test mission. The primary goal is to achieve a controlled splashdown of the upper Starship spacecraft in the Indian Ocean. Simultaneously, the Super Heavy rocket booster, which separates from Starship shortly after liftoff, will attempt a controlled splashdown within the Gulf.
This marks the second test flight for the V3 version of Starship. The initial V3 flight in May experienced engine outages, impacting its performance. SpaceX is under significant pressure to refine Starship's capabilities, particularly in anticipation of a critical NASA test flight scheduled for the following year. Successful completion of these tests is vital for advancing plans for future moon landings.
