SpaceX is preparing to launch its Starship SN10 prototype on a 10-kilometer high-altitude test flight from the Boca Chica site. The event could occur this evening.
Starship SN9 lifted off successfully on February 2 from South Texas, reaching 10 kilometers before a landing failure. One of its three Raptor engines failed to relight, leading to the crash—the second after SN8. This triggered a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) investigation.
The FAA regulates U.S. civil aviation, authorizing SpaceX test flights and setting no-fly zones around launch and landing areas.
The probe is now closed. The vehicle crashed " within the limits of the FAA's safety analysis ", the agency stated, with the landing and explosion posing no danger to anyone. The FAA has approved SpaceX's final accident report, including causes and corrective actions.
This approval clears the path for the SN10 prototype, stationed on the pad for weeks.
It has conducted two static fires, igniting its three Raptor engines briefly; one was replaced. SpaceX now readies for the 10km flight, possibly this evening. Follow live on the Astro Alex YouTube channel – Space & Aero.
Elon Musk recently tweeted a 60% chance of success.
On a recent Joe Rogan podcast, Musk confirmed aims for a Starship orbital flight this year and crewed missions by 2023.
