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Upcoming Launch: SpaceX’s Starship Flight 8 Scheduled for Wednesday
SpaceX has announced that it will make another attempt to launch Starship Flight 8 on Wednesday, following a scrubbed launch that was initially set for yesterday evening Eastern Time. The delay was attributed to low pressure detected in the Super Heavy booster’s engine start systems. This upcoming launch will be a milestone for SpaceX, marking nearly two months since the last flight and providing the opportunity to test its upgraded upper stage for the first time.
A Review of Yesterday’s Launch Attempt
The recent attempt to launch Starship Flight 8 was notable as it was the first test to utilize a new holding window that begins 40 seconds prior to ignition. Unfortunately, pre-launch checks revealed ongoing issues related to the booster and upper stage. As a result, SpaceX opted to push back the launch without offering a comprehensive explanation for the change in plans.
In the wake of the scrub, CEO Elon Musk took to social media, explaining that a low “ground spin start pressure”was among the contributing factors for the delay. Ground spin pressure is critical in the Super Heavy rocket booster, as it enables the proper functioning of the engine ignition system. The engines are ignited through spin pumps that facilitate the optimal delivery of propellants for a successful liftoff.
What’s Next for Starship Flight 8?
As preparations continue, it’s still uncertain whether SpaceX will de-stack the Starship rocket ahead of Wednesday’s attempt. Similar to the previous Flight 7, Flight 8 represents a vital test for the upper stage. If successful, this launch will see the upper-stage ship fly for the second time, allowing engineers to assess advancements made to the propellant system, as well as new heat shield tiles and redesigned forward flaps.
Importantly, Flight 8 is expected to provide valuable data regarding two essential aspects of Starship’s operational profile. Firstly, it will test new recovery hardware designed to enhance future recovery efforts by simulating a catch on the launch pad. Secondly, a triumphant upper-stage test could facilitate a forthcoming in-space refueling mission, marking a step forward in establishing a propellant depot in orbit.
The launch window for Starship Flight 8 is slated to open at 5:30 p.m. Central Time. The rocket will follow a suborbital trajectory, and will also deploy dummy Starlink satellites as part of its test objectives.
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