SpaceX Starship Test Flight 2 Update and Next Steps

TLDRIn an update from SpaceX and the FAA, details of the second test flight of Starship are revealed. The investigation into the mishap is closed and corrective actions are proposed. The booster experienced an explosion due to a filter blockage, while the ship had a planned venting of excess liquid oxygen. Both vehicles will undergo hardware redesigns and system updates for the next flight. SpaceX has applied for a launch license modification to allow subsequent flights. The next steps include hardware readiness, a wet dress rehearsal, and final preparations for the third flight.

Key insights

:rocket:The investigation into the mishap of the second test flight of Starship has been closed and SpaceX has proposed corrective actions.

:wrench:The booster explosion was caused by a filter blockage, leading to a loss of inlet pressure in the engine oxidizer turbo pumps.

:chart_with_upwards_trend:SpaceX has implemented 17 corrective actions, including vehicle hardware redesigns and updated control system modeling.

:calendar:SpaceX has applied for a launch license modification to allow subsequent flights of Starship.

:satellite:The next steps involve hardware readiness, a wet dress rehearsal, and final preparations for the third flight of Starship.

Q&A

What caused the explosion of the booster during the second test flight?

—The explosion was caused by a filter blockage, which led to a loss of inlet pressure in the engine oxidizer turbo pumps.

What corrective actions has SpaceX proposed?

—SpaceX has proposed 17 corrective actions, including vehicle hardware redesigns, updated control system modeling, and re-evaluation of engine performance based on flight data.

Has SpaceX applied for a launch license modification?

—Yes, SpaceX has applied for a launch license modification to allow subsequent flights of Starship.

What are the next steps for SpaceX?

—The next steps include hardware readiness, a wet dress rehearsal, and final preparations for the third flight of Starship.

When can we expect the third flight of Starship to take place?

—The exact date of the third flight of Starship has not been announced yet.

Timestamped Summary

00:00SpaceX and the FAA provide an update on the second test flight of Starship.

03:41The booster explosion was caused by a filter blockage, leading to a loss of inlet pressure in the engine oxidizer turbo pumps.

05:40SpaceX has implemented 17 corrective actions, including hardware redesigns and updated control system modeling.

09:46SpaceX has applied for a launch license modification to allow subsequent flights of Starship.

10:46The next steps involve hardware readiness, a wet dress rehearsal, and final preparations for the third flight of Starship.

Browse more