SpaceX Transports Gleaming New Starship Component to Texas for Upcoming Flight 7

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As the countdown begins for Starship Flight 7, SpaceX has successfully transported another upper stage nosecone along with the payload section to its Boca Chica, Texas assembly facilities. Recent footage from local media suggests that this component may be intended for the upcoming Starship Flight 9. This delivery illustrates SpaceX’s robust focus on hardware within its Starship testing program, enabling rapid advancements and numerous test flights for its rockets.

Preparations for Starship Flight 7: A Step Forward

Starship Flight 7 is anticipated to take place in January. In a departure from many prior tests, SpaceX has already secured the FAA’s approval for this launch well in advance. Earlier this month, the FAA issued the necessary flight license, while detailing certain anomalies that would not necessitate extensive inquiries if they occurred during the test.

This forthcoming flight will utilize an upgraded Starship upper stage spacecraft, which is expected to showcase a new tower catch mechanism for the upper stage. Enhancements include larger fuel tanks, an improved forward fin design, and new heat shield tiles. SpaceX constructs its rockets in sections at its Starfactory, followed by assembly in towering bays, culminating in tanking and static fire assessments.

Meanwhile, local media has reported that SpaceX is progressing with the construction of the upper stage intended for Flight 9. Visuals depict the rocket’s upper segment departing from Starfactory to the assembly site.

SpaceX's Starship second-stage during a Raptor vacuum static fire test. — SpaceX’s Starship second-stage during a Raptor vacuum static fire test. Image: SpaceX

The component being prepared encompasses the nosecone and payload bay of the second stage. Production involves automated processes at SpaceX’s Starfactory, where metal pieces are formed into cylindrical structures, subsequently stacked and welded in preparation for flight testing.

While numerous pre-flight tests have been performed in anticipation of Starship Flight 7, the rocket has yet to be assembled at the launch pad. A noteworthy test earlier in the month involved firing a single Raptor engine at the new engine testing facility, simulating an in-space re-ignition crucial for obtaining FAA certification for future orbital tests.

SpaceX aims to launch the Starship from Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida as part of its long-term vision. Additional footage has showcased the movement of the tower catch arms at KSC, demonstrating ongoing progress since the tower’s construction.

With Flight 7 potentially launching in January, the establishment of a second launch tower at the site could enhance the frequency of launches, as it reduces the time required for refurbishing the launch structure between missions. SpaceX has also completed static fire tests for both the 232-foot-tall Super Heavy booster and the upper stage designated for Flight 7, leaving only a few critical milestones before the rocket takes to the skies for its seventh endeavor.

Ship 35’s nose cone and payload section took a stroll from the Starfactory into Mega Bay 2. Let the stacking continue! 🤩🚀🔥@NASASpaceflight pic.twitter.com/RW25vl3gU5

— Mary (@BocaChicaGal) December 26, 2024