SpaceX is gearing up for the 12th test flight of its large Starship spacecraft scheduled for tonight. The aerospace company led by Elon Musk plans to launch the Starship within a 90-minute window starting at 5:30 pm Central Time (11:30 pm BST).
Yesterday, SpaceX was on the verge of launching the test flight when it had to abort due to issues with the new pad at Starbase near the Mexican border. Musk explained that a hydraulic pin on the launch tower’s arm malfunctioned, causing the delay. If the problem is resolved promptly, another launch attempt will be made on Friday.
During a livestream, a SpaceX representative highlighted the challenges of working with new systems, emphasizing the learning curve involved in troubleshooting issues in real-time before launch.
Elon Musk recently announced plans to take SpaceX public, following significant financial losses. SpaceX reported a $2.6 billion deficit from operations last year on $18.7 billion in revenue. The company aims to raise funds through the IPO, with estimates suggesting a potential offering of around $75 billion, surpassing Saudi Aramco’s record IPO.
SpaceX, officially known as Space Exploration Technologies Corp., intends to utilize the funds to advance projects focused on space exploration, particularly towards establishing human presence on the moon and Mars to safeguard against existential threats.
The Starship Version 3, standing at 407 feet tall with a diameter of approximately 30 feet, is the latest iteration of SpaceX’s powerful megarocket designed for crew and cargo missions to various destinations in space.
A live webcast of the 12th flight test will be available on the SpaceX website and @SpaceX, starting 45 minutes before liftoff. The webcast schedule is subject to change, as developmental testing is dynamic.
Despite encountering issues during the previous attempt, SpaceX is determined to proceed with the test flight, demonstrating the company’s commitment to advancing space exploration and technology.
