SpaceX is preparing for the eighth flight test of Starship, with a launch scheduled for Friday, February 28, pending regulatory approval. The upcoming test will focus on new objectives, including Starship’s first payload deployment and experiments aimed at enhancing the vehicle’s ability to return to its launch site.
Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, announced on Sunday evening that “Starship Flight 8 flies Friday.” A live webcast will be available on SpaceX’s website and X (@SpaceX), as well as on the X TV app, starting approximately 40 minutes before liftoff. The launch window is set to open at 5:30 p.m. CT, although the schedule is subject to change as with all test flights.
Improvements have been implemented following issues encountered during Starship’s previous flight, which resulted in the loss of the vehicle. These upgrades include stronger forward flaps to withstand reentry heat, a redesigned propulsion system with a 25% increase in propellant volume, and avionics upgrades for enhanced navigation and redundancy.
During this test, a satellite deployment simulation will take place, with Starship releasing four Starlink simulators to simulate future missions. Additionally, a Raptor engine relight in space is planned to assess engine performance beyond Earth.
SpaceX will once again attempt to launch, return, and catch the Super Heavy booster using the launch tower’s “chopsticks.” The booster will decelerate from supersonic speeds, generating a sonic boom near the landing zone. However, if conditions are unfavorable, the booster will perform a controlled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico.
This mission will push the upper stage’s heat shield to its limits, testing new thermal protection materials and aerodynamic changes aimed at improving future reentry success. Sensors on the launch tower’s chopsticks will also gather data to refine booster recovery operations.
Excitement is guaranteed for this upcoming launch, as SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of space exploration. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting test flight!