The next SpaceX Starship test flight will be the most ambitious to date, and the first, which includes a new "block 2" version with lots of design updates.
SpaceX aims to turn this craft into a rapidly deployable vehicle, which will be able to launch large loads into orbit, land on Earth and launch another mission within hours.
The company reports on its website, that Starship's electronics have undergone a "complete redesign", and now there are over on board 30 camera. He will also have on 25 percent more fuel, will be higher at 3,1 meters and redesigned front flaps.
He too, to deliver two astronauts to the International Space Station, includes an early version of the pins, necessary for capture by a ground tower.
SpaceX hopes, that the upper stage of the Starship will reach space, will complete a partial revolution around the Earth, will safely reenter the atmosphere and make a controlled landing in the Indian Ocean. The first stage of the Super Heavy must return to the launch site and be caught by the Mechazilla or the "sticks" on the launch tower - this will be the second capture if successful.
The launch marks a milestone for SpaceX, оскільки Starship буде використовуватися повторно вперше. One of 33 of Raptor Super Heavy engines was previously used in the fifth Starship test flight. To date, this has been the only test, під час якого ступінь було безпечно повернуто, so this is the company's first opportunity to reuse something.
in addition, will be deployed for the first time 10 models of Starlink satellites. These simulated satellites will be similar in size and weight to the company's upcoming third-generation Internet Beam equipment and will test Starship's ability to carry payloads into orbit and launch them safely.
SpaceX reports, that the launch will take place 13 January. The launch window will last until 16 January, which gives the company some freedom of action, if the launch is delayed due to engineering problems or inclement weather.