Next-Generation Starship Booster Sustains Damage During Testing
SpaceX’s next-generation Starship booster, known as Booster 18, sustained significant damage during a recent test on November 21. This incident has raised concerns regarding the development timeline of the Starship program. The test took place at SpaceX’s facility in Starbase, Texas, early in the morning when the lower section of the booster ruptured, as confirmed by independent video footage.
Details of the Incident
SpaceX reported that Booster 18 experienced an anomaly during gas system pressure testing ahead of structural proof tests. Fortunately, no personnel were injured. The company stated, “The teams need time to investigate before we are confident of the cause.”
Design and Upgrades
Booster 18 is the first Super Heavy booster constructed for the third version of the Starship program. Key upgrades from version 2 include:
- An upgraded fuel transfer line similar in size to the Falcon 9 booster.
- An integrated hot-staging ring that remains attached to the booster.
- A reduction in grid fins from four to three for improved reentry.
- Upgraded Raptor engines for enhanced performance.
Impact on Upcoming Missions
Before the anomaly, SpaceX had high hopes for launching version 3 of the Starship soon. Kiko Dontchev, Vice President of Launch at SpaceX, expressed optimism at the Economist Space Summit on November 5, indicating potential test flights in January. Despite noting that the Starship remains a development vehicle, he emphasized the importance of learning through testing.
Future Plans and Schedules
SpaceX indicated that this incident would not hinder the overall progress of Starship V3. Plans are in place for the next Super Heavy booster to be stacked in December, aligning with the testing schedule for the first Starship V3 vehicle. The company aims to have the twelfth flight test of Starship conducted by the first quarter of 2026.
Nasa’s Artemis Program Considerations
The setback could exert additional pressure on NASA to reassess its Artemis lunar landing timeline. SpaceX is contracted to provide a Starship-based lander for Artemis 3, scheduled for 2027. With previous delays already apparent, there are concerns about meeting this schedule. NASA Acting Administrator Sean Duffy announced plans on October 20 to seek acceleration proposals from contractors, including SpaceX and Blue Origin.
Technical and Strategic Developments
On October 30, SpaceX presented NASA a “simplified” architecture for Artemis 3, although specific technical details have not been disclosed. The company maintains that Starship, despite current delays, is still the optimal solution for returning humans to the lunar surface.
Going forward, SpaceX plans to focus on two major milestones for Starship V3. These include placing one ship in orbit for extended testing and launching another ship to demonstrate in-space propellant transfer. Both tests are targeted for 2026, contingent on the results of upcoming flight evaluations.
