SpaceX is preparing for the 14th test flight of its Starship rocket, aiming for the vehicle's first successful trip into Earth's orbit, according to multiple outlets.
The launch is expected early Monday, according to CNBC and Arab News. SpaceX previously completed a wet dress rehearsal ahead of the flight, according to Engadget.
Arab News reported the test is expected to last about 10 hours and will involve the upper stage of the experimental vehicle. The outlet also noted the attempt comes three years after Starship's first test flight, and follows SpaceX's initial public offering in June, according to Arab News.
Outlets describe the orbital flight as a key milestone in SpaceX's development of Starship, a vehicle the company designed for future missions to the Moon and Mars.
How each side covered it
Left
- The New York Times said the flight would be a crucial milestone toward sending people to the Moon and Mars.
- Engadget reported SpaceX completed a wet dress rehearsal ahead of the flight.
- The Economist noted the launch aims to send Starship into orbit.
“If successful, the 14th test flight will be a crucial milestone toward the company’s ambitions of sending people to the moon and Mars.” — The New York Times
Center
- CNBC described the launch as a historic test flight of the massive Starship rocket.
- Arab News reported the flight was expected to last about 10 hours and occur three years after Starship's first test.
- Arab News linked the launch timing to SpaceX's initial public offering in June.
“SpaceX’s Starship rocket will attempt Monday to enter Earth’s orbit, a key step in the development of the massive launch vehicle designed for future missions to the Moon and Mars.” — Arab News
Questions readers ask
What is happening with SpaceX's Starship rocket?
SpaceX is attempting to send its Starship rocket into Earth's orbit for the first time during the vehicle's 14th test flight.
Why does this Starship flight matter?
Outlets including The New York Times described the flight as a crucial milestone toward SpaceX's ambitions of sending people to the Moon and Mars.
When is the launch expected?
CNBC and Arab News reported the launch was expected early Monday.
What preparations took place before the flight?
According to Engadget, SpaceX completed a wet dress rehearsal, a launch preparation exercise, ahead of the orbital test flight.
How long is the test flight expected to last?
According to Arab News, the test flight was expected to last about 10 hours and involve the upper stage of the experimental vehicle.
Sources · 7 outlet reports
- EngadgetLeft-leaningSpaceX Starship's first orbital flight test on track after successful launch rehearsal
- The EconomistLeft-leaningSpaceX sends Starship into orbit
- The New York TimesLeft-leaningSpaceX’s Starship Is Set to Make Its First Orbital Flight
- Arab NewsCenterSpaceX aims to put Starship in orbit for the first time
- CNBCCenterSpaceX prepares to send Starship rocket to orbit for first time
- France 24CenterSpaceX to attempt putting Starship rocket into Earth orbit for first time
- Phys.orgCenterSpaceX aims to put Starship in orbit for the first time