The most powerful rocket ever built is on the verge of its biggest — and riskiest — test yet - edition.cnn.com
SpaceX is preparing for a high-stakes test flight of its Starship rocket, which aims to reach orbit and deploy new Starlink satellites. This mission represents a critical transition from testing to operational status for the world's most powerful launch vehicle.
Why it matters
Success would significantly advance space exploration capabilities, including NASA's lunar missions and the expansion of global internet infrastructure.
People near the sandy shores of Texas’ southernmost coastline are accustomed to the earth-shattering roar of the most powerful rocket ever made: Since 2023, various prototypes of SpaceX’s Starship have taken flight from the area 13 times — with nearly half ending in some form of unintended explosion. But the stakes are about to get even higher. On Monday, SpaceX will attempt to launch Starship to orbit for the first time, allowing it to deploy the inaugural batch of a new generation of Starlink internet satellites. A 75-minute launch window opens at 8:15 a.m. ET. The company is aiming to lift off at 8:48 a.m. ET. If successful, Monday’s test flight could mark a monumental step forward — signifying that Starship may soon leave its test flight phase and enter full operation.
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