.png)
SpaceX's eagerly anticipated second flight of Starship and Super Heavy is on the horizon, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval hanging in the balance. Ship 25 and Booster 9, after successfully completing their latest tests, are ready for action. In this article, we dive into the latest developments, the quest for FAA approval, and some intriguing clues hinting at the launch date.
On October 24, SpaceX conducted a flawless Wet Dress Rehearsal, a pivotal step in launch preparation. The prototypes, filled with liquid methane and oxygen, simulated the entire sequence leading up to liftoff. The test concluded with the activation of the Water Deluge System (WDS), a crucial safety measure, without igniting the 33 Raptor engines on the Super Heavy. This successful dry run underscores SpaceX's meticulous preparations.
Just two days later, on October 26, SpaceX grounded Ship 25. This action is vital to arm the Flight Termination System, a significant safety feature. Interestingly, the installation of explosive charges will only happen after receiving FAA's long-awaited launch authorization, following a procedure similar to the one in April.
A significant development occurred on October 28 when SpaceX reinstalled an additional ring on the Super Heavy. This ring is pivotal for executing the hot staging maneuver during the separation of rocket stages in flight, emphasizing the company's attention to detail and commitment to mission success.
The burning question on everyone's mind is when this historic launch will occur. November 6 has been circulating as a potential date, driven by two key clues. The first is tied to permits issued by the US Navy, specifically a "notice to mariners" for November 6. While previous notices have come and gone without a launch, the repetition adds to the anticipation. The second clue relates to NASA's flight schedule, featuring a WB-57 aircraft. This aircraft was present during the first Starship launch and is scheduled to be in the skies from November 3 to November 10. However, the final launch date ultimately hinges on FAA approval.
Securing FAA approval has been a complex journey. SpaceX submitted its report for the first launch between July and August, initiating FAA's analysis and suggested corrective actions. On September 8, the federal agency released the flight report, listing 63 corrective actions that SpaceX needed to complete before obtaining new permits. These actions were primarily proposed by SpaceX and were already in progress when the FAA's report was issued.
Simultaneously, the analyses were provided to the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to assess the environmental impact of the Starship launch. FWS began its work on October 19, deploying officials to the Starbase area. The extensive upgrades to the launch pad, especially the Water Deluge System, necessitated a fresh inspection. FWS now has 135 days to compile a report on its findings, although there are indications that it may not take that long.
In conclusion, the stage is set for the epic second launch of SpaceX's Starship and Super Heavy, with the world eagerly awaiting the FAA's crucial green light. Meticulous preparations, intriguing clues, and a firm commitment to safety underline the significance of this event for space exploration. As the countdown continues, all eyes are on the official announcement of the launch date.
