SpaceX: Starship Test Flight Set for January 15

SpaceX’s Starship is preparing for its seventh test flight on Wednesday, January 15, with a 60-minute launch window opening at 4:00 p.m. CT. (2pm PST/5pm EST). Previously, the launch date was set for January 10.

A live webcast will begin about 35 minutes before liftoff and will be available on the X platform (@SpaceX) and the X TV app.

This mission marks significant advancements for Starship and its Super Heavy booster. It will include:

• Payload Test: Deployment of 10 Starlink simulators to test satellite delivery capabilities.
• Reentry Experiments: Tests on heat shield materials, thermal performance of catch fittings, and new reentry stress designs.
• System Upgrades: Enhanced avionics, redesigned propulsion, and increased propellant capacity for longer missions.

The Super Heavy booster will also undergo its first hardware reuse, utilizing a Raptor engine from a previous flight. The booster’s return plan includes a soft splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico unless conditions allow for a tower catch.

Excitement guaranteed—can’t wait to see this launch and the test simulation of the Starlink payload (Pez dispenser!).