tech
SpaceX scrubs Starship launch after some of its engines didn't start
“Now offloading propellant. Next launch attempt hopefully in a few days.”
TL;DR
- SpaceX called off a Starship rocket and Super Heavy booster test flight at the final countdown stage.
- The abort occurred because several of the Super Heavy booster's 33 Raptor engines failed to start.
- Elon Musk confirmed the issue on X, stating that the company is offloading propellant and aiming for a launch in a few days, likely early next week.
- Engineers will replace two Raptor engines on the Super Heavy booster.
- This test flight (Flight 13) is the second to use the upgraded Raptor 3 engine and aims to address issues from previous flights, including engine startup sequences and landing burns.
- Successful tests are crucial for SpaceX's plans for Starlink launches, orbital refueling, and supporting NASA's Artemis lunar program.