SpaceX shared on its X page on Monday that it is targeting Monday, November 18th, for the next launch of the Starship program. The announcement comes only three weeks after SpaceX’s last launch from Star Base in Boca Chica, TX.
A Quick Turn Around
Following the successful launch of IFT-5 on October 13, 2024, SpaceX stands ready to fly again just 36 days later—an impressive turnaround for a program still in development.
Previous Starship launches have all been delayed due to FAA Safety Investigations. IFT-5 was the first launch where no major anomaly took place, meaning that no post-flight FAA investigation was required. Proceeding on their own timeline, SpaceX has been able to modify its launch vehicle and proceed with its next launch. The launch license issued for IFT-5 will also cover IFT-6 because the flight profile is the same.
This is the first Starship launch where a launch date has been announced weeks in advance. A NOTAM issued Monday establishes an aerospace notice from the launch site to south of the Bahamas.
What is IFT-6 All About?
This test, which will focus on pushing the boundaries of both the Starship spacecraft and its Super Heavy booster, includes a series of critical objectives designed to advance the reusability of the entire launch system. Key targets include returning the booster to the launch site for a mid-air catch, reigniting the Raptor engine while in orbit, and conducting heatshield durability and maneuvering tests over the Indian Ocean.
The booster catch attempt, which was a success in a previous test, proved the feasibility of the design concept and provided SpaceX with crucial data on how the system can be fine-tuned for reliability and efficiency. This upcoming test builds on that success with several hardware and software enhancements. SpaceX engineers have made significant hardware upgrades, adding redundancy to the booster’s propulsion systems and strengthening structural components in critical areas. These improvements aim to further increase the system’s resilience and ensure safe handling during both launch and recovery.
A central part of the mission will be refining the “catch” procedure. SpaceX plans for the booster to return to the launch site after helping propel the Starship into orbit, where it will attempt another catch using SpaceX’s unique mechanical system. Enhancements for this flight include modifications designed to allow the booster to more quickly and efficiently offload propellant after the catch. If successful, this process would cut down turnaround times and help meet SpaceX’s goal of achieving rapid reusability.
In orbit, SpaceX will attempt to reignite one of the Starship’s Raptor engines—a move essential for long-duration missions and deep-space capabilities. A successful in-space reignition would mark an important step in demonstrating that the Raptor engines are capable of performing in the vacuum of space after a prolonged period, a capability crucial for potential Mars or Moon missions.
Additionally, the test will include an array of heatshield experiments and new reentry maneuvers. Engineers have incorporated an improved heatshield system and modified descent controls, which will undergo rigorous testing as Starship reenters Earth’s atmosphere over the Indian Ocean. The data from these experiments will contribute to SpaceX’s understanding of how well the vehicle can withstand the intense heat and pressure of reentry, one of the most challenging aspects of making Starship reusable.
Software plays a pivotal role in SpaceX’s evolving system, and for this test, mission designers have adjusted software controls and updated the “commit criteria”—the parameters that determine when it’s safe to proceed with launch and landing. These refinements aim to optimize the booster’s performance and safety during both ascent and return, increasing the reliability of the system.
Mission Changes From IFT-5
IFT-6 will follow the same general flight profile as IFT-5, with some tweaks. Following a successful stage separation, the Starship will coast where a soft touchdown will occur in the Indian Ocean.
This mission, for the first time, will be launched in the afternoon. SpaceX reports that the 30 minute launch window opens at 4:00PM CT. According to SpaceX officials, the timing allows for better observations of Starship’s splashdown in the Indian Ocean.
Flight 6 will also descend at a higher angle of attack, purposely placing more stress on the vehicle’s navigating flaps to test their limits
After a successful booster return to launch site (RTLS), SpaceX will again attempt to navigate Booster 31 back to the launch tower. SpaceX emphasizes that the catch attempt will only be made if specific criteria can be met. If not, the booster will perform a soft touchdown in the Gulf of Mexico. A sonic boom will be audible to launch spectators in Texas and Mexico.
What’s Next?
Since Starship is a consistently evolving program, this date is still tentative. Backup dates have yet to be public, but SpaceX will push to make the 18th happen.
This is the planned final flight of the Block 1 variant of Starship. The next launches will have different vehicle features and possibly different configurations.
Keep watching social media and announcements from Cameron County on road closures and other key information. If you plan to attend, start making preparations now! Accommodations will fill up very quickly!
