SpaceX is making steps toward the fifth flight of its Starship, despite the FAA estimating that the launch license may not be approved until late November. In a recent update from the company, SpaceX announced a potential launch date of October 13th, just a week away, though it hinges on regulatory approval. While the FAA's official stance suggests a launch won’t happen before November, SpaceX’s readiness for launch could be seen as an attempt to apply pressure on the agency.
In the update, SpaceX provided detailed insight into the flight profile and conditions surrounding the booster catch attempt. The fifth test flight of Starship aims to advance toward full and rapid reusability, with a primary objective of attempting the first-ever return-to-launch-site booster catch. Starship’s upper stage is set for re-entry and a splashdown in the Indian Ocean, marking another step in demonstrating the system’s full potential.
Despite SpaceX’s optimism, the FAA has reiterated that the company must meet all safety, environmental, and licensing requirements before receiving approval to launch. This was reaffirmed just days ago, with the FAA doubling down on its projection of a late-November approval. SpaceX, however, seems eager to proceed, potentially signaling they have internal information or readiness beyond what is publicly known.
One notable development is that SpaceX has begun installing the flight termination system (FTS), an essential safety measure involving explosives that is usually one of the last steps before a launch. This installation suggests that SpaceX is gearing up for an imminent attempt. The FTS ensures that if the rocket strays from its path, it can be destroyed to prevent any danger to the public or property.
As for the booster catch attempt, SpaceX explained that numerous criteria must be met for the attempt to proceed. The mission flight director will make the final call before the boost-back burn. If the conditions aren't ideal, the booster will perform a landing burn and splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico. Otherwise, it will return to the launch site for a catch attempt, a maneuver that has never been attempted before. The catch involves the booster returning at supersonic speeds, slowing down just in time to be caught by the tower's arms.
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7 окт 2024
