SpaceX has received authorization from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to proceed with the second test flight of its colossal Starship rocket. This development comes after the first launch attempt in April resulted in a fiery explosion.
The FAA issued a launch license for SpaceX’s next-generation rocket, Starship Super Heavy, stating that the company had met all safety, environmental, policy, and financial responsibility criteria. SpaceX aims to conduct the uncrewed test flight on the upcoming Friday within a two-hour launch window opening at 8 a.m. ET.
The launch will occur at SpaceX’s Starbase test site located in Boca Chica, Texas. According to the company, residents of Cameron County and nearby areas may hear a loud noise during the rocket’s ignition and liftoff, dependent on weather and other conditions.
The entire event will be livestreamed on SpaceX’s website, beginning 30 minutes before the scheduled liftoff.
The Starship rocket, towering at nearly 400 feet, represents the most powerful rocket ever developed and is designed for future missions to destinations like the moon and Mars.
The rocket’s inaugural launch on April 20 ended in an explosion a few minutes into flight, causing extensive damage in and around the launch site. The incident prompted a safety review and an investigation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service due to its impact on nearby tidal flats and a Texas state park.
The FAA reported that SpaceX provided information on modifications made to the rocket system, including enhancements to the launch pad and a deluge system designed to protect specific pad components. The company has also complied with environmental protection requirements for the upcoming launch.