SpaceX is conducting the seventh integrated test flight of its Starship vehicle today from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas. The launch window opens at 5:00 PM CT (6:00 PM ET), with the primary mission objectives including booster recovery, orbital flight demonstration, and payload deployment testing. This follows the successful Flight 6 in November 2024, where SpaceX caught the Super Heavy booster with the launch tower’s mechanical arms.
When Is the SpaceX Starship Launching Today?
The Flight 7 launch window begins at 5:00 PM Central Time (6:00 PM Eastern, 3:00 PM Pacific). SpaceX typically provides a 120-minute launch window for Starship test flights, allowing flexibility for weather conditions and final technical checks. The Federal Aviation Administration issued the launch license yesterday after completing environmental and safety reviews.
What Are the Mission Objectives for This Flight?
This test flight focuses on three critical milestones: repeating the successful booster catch maneuver, testing upgraded heat shield tiles during reentry, and demonstrating Starship’s payload deployment capabilities. SpaceX engineers have implemented modifications based on data from previous flights, including reinforced heat shield sections and improved propellant management systems.
Where Can I Watch the SpaceX Starship Launch Live?
SpaceX streams all Starship launches on X (formerly Twitter) via @SpaceX and on their official website at spacex.com. The webcast typically begins 30-45 minutes before liftoff. NASA also provides coverage through NASA TV, and space news outlets including Space.com and NASASpaceflight.com offer independent commentary streams.