Planned Sequence of the Upcoming Flight
The aerospace company SpaceX is preparing the thirteenth experimental flight of its heavy-lift Starship vehicle. The launch is planned for July 16. During this mission, satellites of the newer Starlink V3 generation are to be deployed for the first time.
- First use of Starlink V3 aboard a Starship flight
- Testing of booster recovery procedures
- Evaluation of upgraded flight systems for future operations
Beyond the satellite deployment, the focus of the undertaking lies on technical validation. The recovery of the booster stage is to be demonstrated under realistic conditions. In addition, revised onboard systems are being used and assessed during the flight.
The test is regarded as a significant milestone toward routine operational missions with Starship. By combining payload deployment with system verification, key obstacles for later serial use are intended to be cleared.