In a significant step toward its next launch, SpaceX has conducted its most powerful Super Heavy booster test to date, firing all 33 Raptor engines at full thrust. The milestone comes ahead of the planned 12th integrated test flight of its Starship launch system.
The static fire test took place at SpaceX’s Starbase facility in Boca Chica and featured the upgraded Super Heavy V3 booster. This latest version is designed to power the Starship spacecraft toward orbit and support future missions to the Moon and Mars.
According to the company, the test was a “full duration and full thrust” firing, meaning the engines operated at maximum power for the entire planned sequence. During the test, the booster remained secured to the launch mount as the engines generated millions of pounds of thrust, producing massive exhaust plumes across the site.
Already known as the most powerful rocket stage ever built, the Super Heavy booster is expected to deliver even higher performance in its V3 version. The upgrades are aimed at improving reliability, increasing thrust output, and enhancing reusability.
The successful test marks an important milestone ahead of Starship’s next launch attempt, which could happen in the coming weeks, subject to regulatory approvals and final system checks.
SpaceX has been rapidly advancing the Starship programme, learning from both successes and setbacks in earlier flight tests. In recent missions, the company achieved a breakthrough by catching returning Super Heavy boosters using large mechanical “chopstick” arms attached to its launch tower, a key element in its reusable rocket strategy.
However, challenges continue with Starship’s upper stage, which has faced issues during re-entry and controlled splashdowns.
SpaceX believes that a fully reusable Starship system could significantly reduce the cost of space travel and eventually support long-term human settlements beyond Earth.
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