SpaceX’s Starship Flight 10 might be launching soon, with a fresh FAA advisory pointing to June 29th as the potential launch date, and June 30th as a backup. This flight would come just over a month after Flight 9, marking a much faster turnaround time for SpaceX.
Flight 10 aims to build on lessons learned from previous tests, particularly from Flight 8, which experienced its own set of challenges.
Despite previous setbacks, including a significant failure in May, SpaceX has remained focused on improving the performance of its upper-stage spacecraft. The key objectives for Starship include solving problems with its heat shield and achieving a successful tower catch for reusability, both of which are critical for the future of space travel.
The FAA’s advisory comes shortly after the closure of the mishap investigation for Starship Flight 8. That flight failed when the upper-stage ship’s engines didn’t shut down properly after separating from the Super Heavy booster. SpaceX later clarified that the failure was due to engine malfunction, which caused an uncontrolled mixing of propellants-different from the issue that caused the failure in Flight 7.
SpaceX has implemented corrective measures to avoid similar failures in the future, with eight new safety protocols already in place. However, Flight 9, which took place last month, also ended in failure, prompting the FAA to open another investigation. The cause of that failure is still unknown, and SpaceX has not provided further details yet.
Since then, SpaceX has conducted two significant ground tests. The first was a static fire of the Super Heavy booster, where all 33 engines were fired for a full-duration run. The second test involved a single engine on the upper-stage spacecraft, likely simulating an in-space ignition. These tests are vital for ensuring that everything is functioning properly before attempting the next flight.
As the June 29th launch window approaches, SpaceX is continuing to refine Starship and hopes to reduce its turnaround time between flights. If Flight 10 proceeds as planned, it could be an important step forward for SpaceX, offering a glimpse of the future of reusable spacecraft.