Starbase Update: Progress on Star Factory, Office Building, and Booster Production

TLDRStarbase is bustling with activity as work progresses on the Star Factory, office building, and booster production. Key highlights include window installations and outside cladding in the Star Factory, progress on the new office building, and the completion of booster aft section for Booster 17. Ship 29 completes static fire tests and prepares for flight, while booster 4 is scrapped. The orbital launch mount and Chopsticks undergo refurbishment, and work continues on the second Starship launch tower.

Key insights

🚀Significant progress in the construction of the Star Factory and office building.

🔥Ship 29 completes multiple static fire tests, getting ready for its flight.

💥Booster 4 is scrapped, highlighting the constant iteration and improvement of SpaceX's launchpads.

🌟Continued development of the second Starship launch tower for future launches.

🔧Refurbishment work on the orbital launch mount and Chopsticks.

Q&A

What progress has been made on the Star Factory and office building?

Windows have been installed in the Star Factory, and cladding has been added to the office building.

What tests has Ship 29 completed?

Ship 29 has completed a six-engine static fire test and a single-engine test utilizing its header tanks.

Why was Booster 4 scrapped?

Booster 4 was scrapped due to the constant iteration and improvement of SpaceX's launchpad designs.

What work is being done on the orbital launch mount and Chopsticks?

The orbital launch mount is undergoing refurbishment, including the installation of cryogenic hoses and the reinstallation of the hood cover. The Chopsticks are being repaired and improved after flight three.

What is the status of the second Starship launch tower?

Sections 8 and 9 of the second Starship launch tower have been outfitted with hardware and are waiting to be transported to Starbase for stacking.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Starbase is buzzing with activity, with progress seen in various areas.

00:45The Star Factory sees window installations and outside cladding.

04:29Booster aft section of Booster 17 is being fitted with its liquid oxygen header tank.

05:09Ship 29 completes multiple static fire tests, preparing for its flight.

07:17Booster 4 is being scrapped, highlighting SpaceX's commitment to improving launchpad designs.

08:13Sections 8 and 9 of the second Starship launch tower are being prepared for stacking.

09:06Refurbishment work is ongoing for the orbital launch mount and Chopsticks.