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Starship Ignites: V3 Booster Roars to Life!
19 Mar
Summary
- SpaceX conducted a static fire test on a new Starship V3 booster.
- This was the first engine test for the upgraded V3 vehicle.
- The test occurred on Pad 2 at SpaceX's Starbase facility.
SpaceX successfully completed an initial activation campaign for its Super Heavy V3 booster and Starbase's Pad 2. This campaign included the first-ever static fire test of a Version 3 Starship booster, igniting its engines while anchored to the pad.
This milestone, achieved on March 16, 2026, was also the inaugural test on the newly activated Pad 2. The static fire involved 10 engines and concluded prematurely due to a ground-side issue, with plans for a full 33-engine test to follow. Booster 19 will be paired with Ship 39 for Starship's 12th test flight, targeted for early to mid-April 2026.
The Starship V3 stands taller than its predecessor and boasts significantly increased power, capable of lifting over 100 tons to low Earth orbit. This enhanced capability makes V3 the first iteration designed for lunar and Martian journeys. Key milestones, including reaching Earth orbit and demonstrating in-space refueling, must be achieved before these ambitious missions can commence.
