Technology
SpaceX conducts another successful short test flight of the Starship spacecraft concept
SpaceX did it again – a second 'jump' flight in less than a month with the Starship concept. This was a research flight of 150 meters (just under 500 feet) from its construction site in Boca Chica, Texas. The version used in this instance was SN6, a more recent iteration than the SN5 research article used by SpaceX to complete a similar test at the beginning of August.
The hop flight is a crucial aspect of the Starship research program and its Raptor engine. This designs are fitted with only one such engine, but the final version of development would have six, including three intended to travel in Earth's atmosphere, and three to be used while the spacecraft is in orbit.SpaceX 's achievement of two of these flights with a safe, upright landing in quick succession is a very positive indication for the spacecraft's production program, as there have been a number of prior designs that have never made it to this stage. Pressurization problems under load happened in earlier models when simulating what the fuel pressures would be on board.
These quick hops enable SpaceX to collect data on the efficiency of the Raptor as well as the efficiency of a full-size Starship prototype (though without elements like nosecone and eventual landing legs).Much of this would guide further experiments, including a much higher sub-orbital atmospheric flight expected to travel as far as commercial aircraft, and finally the first orbital launch of the Starship, which is likely to take place as soon as possible next year.
SpaceX is following a fast innovation production strategy for Starship, producing several iterations of designs at once at its Boca Chica facility, with the goal of rapidly developing and refining functionality, but still learning from mistakes.The goal has been to fly Starship's first operating missions early next year, so it would be incredibly promising if the organization continues to take into account where they are in the production cycle of the rocket.
