SpaceX has conducted a key test of its Starship rocket system, igniting 31 of its 33 engines in a static fire at its facility in Boca Chica, Texas. The test, which lasted only a few seconds, was designed to verify the performance of the Super Heavy booster before an eventual orbital launch attempt.
Although two engines did not fire—one was switched off beforehand and another shut down automatically—Elon Musk stated that the remaining 31 engines were “still enough to reach orbit”. The static fire marks a significant milestone for the most powerful rocket system ever built, which will surpass both the Soviet N1 rocket and Nasa’s Space Launch System in thrust.
The Starship system is designed to be fully reusable, with both the Super Heavy booster and the upper-stage ship returning to Earth for multiple flights. This reusability is expected to drastically reduce launch costs over time, akin to operating an airliner.
SpaceX now plans to review test data and inspect the launch pad for any damage. Previous engine firings had cracked the concrete under the mount, requiring repairs. Musk has indicated that an orbital attempt could take place in late February or March, pending successful analysis.
Nasa has contracted SpaceX to develop a version of Starship for its Artemis programme, which aims to return astronauts to the Moon. Musk himself has long-term ambitions to use the rocket for Mars settlement and point-to-point travel on Earth.
