• SpaceX has stacked the new Starship Version 3 for the third time in three years at its South Texas launch pad; it is taller and more powerful than previous versions.
  • The rocket stands 124 meters tall, features 33 Raptor 3 engines producing 18 million pounds of thrust, new grid fins, and a hot staging system.
  • The upcoming flight will be the 12th full-scale Starship test flight, targeting a controlled splashdown of the upper stage in the Indian Ocean.
  • SpaceX plans to use this version for in-orbit refueling experiments, essential for future Moon missions under NASA’s Artemis program.
  • Launch is now targeted for Tuesday, May 19, pending FAA approval.

Sources & Links