What Went Wrong With Starship's Third Test Flight?

TL;DR

SpaceX's third Starship test was a mixed success, with successful hot staging and orbital velocity achieved, but issues during booster re-entry and engine relighting in space. Challenges remain, but the test showcased the potential of Starship as a large payload launch vehicle.

Transcript

this week we saw the third test of the SpaceX Starship and super heavy booster once again rocket lifting off from Bach chicaa we saw the hot staging success we saw Starship go to orbital velocity didn't go into orbit but it could have if it wanted to and then attempt a re-entry there was successes there were problems it's complicated and so to puzz... Read More

Key Insights

• 🚙 The third SpaceX Starship test demonstrated the potential of the Starship as a large payload launch vehicle, even without full reusability.
• 👾 Challenges remain with booster re-entry, engine relighting in space, and overall attitude control.
• 🛀 This test showed progress towards building a propellant depot and addressing zero-boil-off issues.
• 🚀 SpaceX must conduct a mishap investigation, address identified issues, and obtain FAA approval before the next launch.

Questions & Answers

Q: What was the goal of the third SpaceX Starship test?

The goal was to improve on previous issues, successfully achieve hot staging, reach orbital velocity, and test additional objectives in space.

Q: What were the main challenges faced during the test?

The test faced challenges with booster re-entry, including issues with grid fins and stability. The Starship also had difficulty relighting engines in space.

Q: Did the Starship reach orbit during the test?

While the Starship achieved orbital velocity, it did not enter orbit. This was intentional, as it allowed for a natural re-entry over the Indian Ocean.

Q: What were the key successes of the test?

The test showcased successful hot staging, reaching orbital velocity, and live onboard video footage during the flight. The heat shield also held up well during ascent.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The third SpaceX Starship test aimed to improve on previous issues and achieve orbital trajectory.

• Hot staging and initial launch went smoothly, with identical success to the second flight.

• Booster re-entry had problems with grid fins and stability, while the Starship achieved orbital velocity but failed to relight engines in space.