SpaceX has launched a new documentary series providing an unprecedented look behind the scenes of its Starship development programme. The debut episode, titled “Test Like You Fly,” arrives exactly three years after the vehicle’s first integrated flight test and spotlights the rapid evolution of the world’s most powerful rocket.
The 25 minute premiere focuses on the transition to Version 3 hardware. This includes the new Raptor 3 engines, which now produce 280 metric tons of thrust each. When combined on a Super Heavy booster, these 33 engines generate over 17 million pounds of liftoff power.
The music, directing and everything is just so perfect. It’s a great documentary that keeps you totally captivated, hearing directly from SpaceX engineers.
Inside the Engineering Challenges
The documentary features dramatic footage of 33 engine static fires and addresses the engineering hurdles the team has faced. SpaceX engineers openly discuss past challenges, including the Ship 36 anomaly, and show off the upgrades designed to prevent future issues, such as a completely redesigned launch mount.
SpaceX says the series is meant to capture the push toward making Starship a fully and rapidly reusable system. The footage takes viewers inside the factories and onto the launch pads where the hardware is being prepared for humanity’s future goals of reaching Mars.
Flight 12 on the Horizon
The release of the documentary comes as teams at Starbase prepare for the upcoming Flight 12 test. This next mission is expected to further push the limits of the Version 3 hardware as SpaceX aims to refine its landing and recovery techniques.
Check out the first episode below:
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