SpaceX tests Starship upper stage for mission to Mars

SpaceX just conducted a 60-second full-duration static burn test for the upper stage of its Starship spacecraft.

The static burn test is one of the final critical steps before Starship can launch, Space.com reports. The booster used for Flight 9 has also completed a similar test, fueling speculation that SpaceX’s launch could happen within the next few weeks.

When fully assembled, Starship will stand 123 meters tall, making it the most powerful rocket system ever built. The spacecraft’s design includes a Super Heavy booster and Starship upper stage, both of which are designed to be fully reusable – a key element for long-term missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond.

SpaceX Starship prepares to leave the launch pad.

Starship has completed a total of eight test flights, including two in 2025. While the launches were successful, the spacecraft's upper stage failed on both flights after entering space, resulting in explosions less than 10 minutes after liftoff.

In contrast, the Super Heavy booster stage showed remarkable performance when it returned to Starbase and successfully landed with the help of the "magic wand" arm from the giant launch tower. This is a unique technological step in SpaceX's rocket capture system.

Starship is getting closer to becoming a fully reusable spacecraft as it completes further testing. Space enthusiasts will continue to monitor the vehicle’s development at Starbase. If SpaceX maintains its current pace of testing, Starship’s ninth test flight could be coming soon.

Khanh Huyen (Technology News)

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/spacex-thu-nghiem-tang-tren-cua-starship-cho-su-menh-toi-sao-hoa-ar943547.html