SpaceX is taking a bold step forward despite a recent setback with Booster 18. The company is now focusing on Booster 19, aiming to achieve something unprecedented in the Starship program’s history.
Following the anomaly with Booster 18, which resulted in a hole being blown into its side, SpaceX is determined to push ahead. This incident, likely caused by an exploding Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessel (COPV), has not deterred the team. They’ve been working tirelessly to secure the site and continue their mission.
The Race to Flight 12
With Booster 18 out of the picture for Flight 12, all eyes are on Booster 19. As of November 27, stacking has commenced, and SpaceX aims to have it ready for testing in December. This ambitious timeline is a significant departure from their previous records, with the quickest booster build taking three months.
But here’s where it gets controversial: SpaceX is attempting to build, complete, and test a booster within a month, an achievement they’ve never accomplished before. It’s an audacious goal, and one that has many in the industry watching with bated breath.
The Challenges Ahead
While Booster 19 stacking is underway, there are other critical components to consider. Ship 39, the other half of Flight 12, is fully stacked but faces its own set of challenges. Currently occupying the ship cryo test stand is S39.1, a Block 3 ship aft test article. This means that SpaceX cannot proceed with cryogenic testing on Ship 39 until S39.1 is cleared.
Additionally, Pad 2, the launch pad, is almost ready for a vehicle, but there are still some crucial components missing. The main arm of the ship quick-disconnect arm has been installed, but the arm extension and other small items need to be finalized.
A Complex Puzzle
The path to Flight 12 is paved with milestones and challenges. From the construction of a new booster to the completion of a new launch pad, SpaceX has a lot on its plate. And this is the part most people miss: the intricate dance of testing and preparation that goes on behind the scenes. With booster and ship test tanks, cryogenic proof testing, and structural integrity checks, the process is meticulous and time-consuming.
So, as SpaceX embarks on this ambitious journey, the question remains: Can they pull off this unprecedented feat? Will Booster 19 be ready in time, and will all the pieces fall into place for Flight 12? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: SpaceX is leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of innovation and progress.
What do you think? Do you believe SpaceX can achieve this remarkable milestone? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!