BrandWikiReturn

List of Starship vehicles

Since April 2023, Starship has been launched times, with successes and failures. The vehicle Starship when combined with the Super Heavy booster, also named Starship,[1] has been developed with the intention of lowering launch costs using economies of scale.[2] SpaceX aims to achieve this by reusing both rocket stages, increasing payload mass to orbit, increasing launch frequency, creating a mass-manufacturing pipeline and adapting it to a wide range of space missions.[3][4] Starship is the latest project in SpaceX's reusable launch system development program and plan to colonize Mars.[5]

There are three versions of Starship: Block 1 (also known as Version 1 or V1), Block 2, and Block 3, the proposed variants include a depot, Starship HLS, and Starship Crew. Block 2 Starships are designed to be compatible with Block 1 and with future Block 2 boosters.[6] As of September 2025, Block 1 vehicles have been retired, and four Block 2 vehicles have flown so far.[7] The Starship spacecraft is intended to be reusable, and to be recovered via large arms on the tower capable of catching the descending vehicle.[8]

Development

Starhopper

Construction on the initial steel test article—Starship Hopper,[24] Hopper, Hoppy,[25] or Starhopper[26]—began at Boca Chica, Texas in 2018. Starhopper had a single engine and was test flown to develop landing and low-altitude/low-velocity control algorithms.

Starhopper used liquid oxygen (LOX) and liquid methane fuel. After it completed its testing campaign Starhopper was repurposed as a water tank, weather station and equipment mount for cameras, lights, loudspeakers and a radar system.[27]

Testing

It passed tanking tests, wet dress rehearsals, and pre-burner tests.[28] A storm blew over and damaged Starhopper's nose cone. SpaceX continued testing without one.[29]

It then passed a static fire test,[30] and in a tethered test reached 1 meter altitude.[31][32][29] On July 25, 2019, a Starhopper test flight reached about 20 m altitude,[33] followed by an August 27 test that rose to 150 m[34] and landed about 100 m from the launchpad, the Raptor engine's first use in flight.

On September 3, 2024, Starhopper was moved to a parking lot nearby the launch site.[35]

Testing

It passed tanking tests, wet dress rehearsals, and pre-burner tests.[28] A storm blew over and damaged Starhopper's nose cone. SpaceX continued testing without one.[29]

It then passed a static fire test,[30] and in a tethered test reached 1 meter altitude.[31][32][29] On July 25, 2019, a Starhopper test flight reached about 20 m altitude,[33] followed by an August 27 test that rose to 150 m[34] and landed about 100 m from the launchpad, the Raptor engine's first use in flight.

On September 3, 2024, Starhopper was moved to a parking lot nearby the launch site.[35]

Mark series (Mk1–Mk4)

SpaceX began building the high-altitude prototype, Mk1 in Texas and Mk2 in Florida, using competing teams that shared progress, insights, and build techniques.[36][31] The vehicle featured three Raptor methalox engines and was meant to reach an altitude of 5 km.[37][38]

Mk1 was 9 m in diameter and about 50 m tall,[39] with an empty mass of 200 t. It was intended for testing flight and reentry profiles, in pursuit of a suborbital flight. When announced, it had three sea-level Raptor engines, two fins each at the front and back, and a nose cone containing cold-gas reaction control thrusters, with all but the aft fins being removed afterwards.[40][41][39]

On November 20, 2019, Mk1 blew apart during a pressure test.[42][43]

SpaceX began Mk2 in Florida, sharing progress, insights, and build techniques with the Mk1 team in Texas.[36][31] It was never completed.[44]

The Mk3 prototype began construction in late 2019.[39] In December 2019, Elon Musk redesignated Mk3 as Starship SN1, and predicted that minor design improvements would continue through SN20.[45] SpaceX began stacking SN1 in February 2020 after successful pressurization tests on propellant tank prototypes. SN1 was destroyed during a cryogenic pressurization test on February 28, 2020, due to a design flaw in the lower tank thrust structure.

Mk4 began construction in Florida in October 2019,[46] but was scrapped after a few weeks.

Hops (SN3–SN6)

SN3 and SN4

SN3 was destroyed during testing on April 3, 2020[47][48] due to a failure in the testing configuration.[47]

SN4 passed cryogenic pressure testing on April 26[49] and two static fires on May 5 and 7: one tested the main tanks, while the other tested the fuel header tank.[50] After uninstalling the engine, a new cryogenic pressure test was conducted on May 19. A leak in the methane fuel piping ignited, causing significant damage to the rocket's base, destroying the control wiring.[51] SN4 was destroyed on May 29, due to a failure with the Ground Support Equipment's quick-disconnect function.[52]

SN5 and SN6

After a static fire test on July 30,[53] SN5 completed a 150-meter flight (August 4) with engine SN27.[14][54] SN5 was scrapped in February 2021.[55]

SN6 completed a static fire on August 24, and a 150-meter hop test flight with engine SN29 on September 3. In January 2021, SN6 was scrapped.[56]

SN3 and SN4

SN3 was destroyed during testing on April 3, 2020[47][48] due to a failure in the testing configuration.[47]

SN4 passed cryogenic pressure testing on April 26[49] and two static fires on May 5 and 7: one tested the main tanks, while the other tested the fuel header tank.[50] After uninstalling the engine, a new cryogenic pressure test was conducted on May 19. A leak in the methane fuel piping ignited, causing significant damage to the rocket's base, destroying the control wiring.[51] SN4 was destroyed on May 29, due to a failure with the Ground Support Equipment's quick-disconnect function.[52]

SN5 and SN6

After a static fire test on July 30,[53] SN5 completed a 150-meter flight (August 4) with engine SN27.[14][54] SN5 was scrapped in February 2021.[55]

SN6 completed a static fire on August 24, and a 150-meter hop test flight with engine SN29 on September 3. In January 2021, SN6 was scrapped.[56]

High-altitude test flights (SN8–S23)

SN8 and SN9

SN8 was planned to be built out of 304L stainless steel,[57] although some parts may have used 301L steel.[58] In late October and November, SN8 underwent four static fires. During the third test, on November 12, 2020, debris from the pad caused the vehicle to lose pneumatics.[59] Launch took place on December 9. Launch, ascent, reorientation, and controlled descent were successful, but low pressure in the methane header tank[60] kept the engines from producing enough thrust for the landing burn, destroying SN8 on impact.[61]

On December 11, 2020, the stand beneath SN9 failed, causing the vehicle to tip and contact the walls inside the High Bay assembly building.[62] SN9 then required a replacement forward flap.[63] SN9 conducted 6 static fires in January 2021,[64] including three static fires in one day.[65] After these tests, two engines had to be replaced.[66] After struggling to gain U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) permission,[67] SN9 conducted a 10 km flight test on February 2. Ascent, engine cutoffs, reorientation and controlled descent were stable, but one engine's oxygen pre-burner failed, sending SN9 crashing into the landing pad.[68] The landing pad was then reinforced with an additional layer of concrete.[69] After the SN9 failure, all three engines were used to perform the belly flop landing sequence. This offered a failsafe should one fail to ignite.[70][71]

SN10–SN14

SN10 underwent a cryogenic proof test on February 8, 2021, followed by a static fire on February 23.[72] After an engine swap, another static fire was conducted on February 25.[73]

Two launch attempts were conducted on March 3. The first attempt was automatically aborted after one engine produced too much thrust while throttling up. After a 3-hour delay to increase the tolerance,[74] the second attempt launched and landed successfully. The test ended with a hard landing-at 10 m/s – most likely due to partial helium ingestion from the fuel header tank. Three landing legs were not locked in place, producing a slight lean after landing. Although the vehicle initially remained intact, the impact crushed the legs and part of the leg skirt. Eight minutes later the prototype exploded.[75][76]

SN11 accomplished a cryogenic proof test on March 12 that included a test of the Reaction control system (RCS),[77][78] followed by a static fire test on March 15, 2021. Immediately after ignition, the test was aborted.[79] Another static fire attempt[80] led to reports that one of the three engines had been removed for repairs.[81] A replacement engine was installed[82] and a third static fire was attempted on March 26.[83] A 10 km flight test was conducted in heavy fog on March 30. The test included engine cutoffs, flip maneuver, flap control and descent, along with a visible fire on engine 2[84] during the ascent. Just after the defective engine was re-ignited for the landing burn, SN11 lost telemetry at T+ 5:49 and disintegrated.[85]

SN12 through SN14 never launched.[86]

SN15–SN19

SN15 introduced improved avionics software, an updated aft skirt propellant architecture, and a new Raptor design and configuration.[87][88] A Starlink antenna on the side of the vehicle was another new feature.[89] SN15 underwent an ambient temperature pressure test on April 9, 2021,[90] followed by a cryogenic proof test on April 12, and a header tank cryogenic proof test on April 13.[91][92] A static fire was conducted on April 26,[93][94] and a header tank static fire on April 27 followed.[95] A 10 km high-altitude flight test was conducted in overcast weather on May 5, achieving a soft touchdown. A small fire near the base started shortly after landing, though this was extinguished.[96] After its engines were removed, it was moved to the Rocket Garden on May 31, 2021.[97] On July 26, 2023, SN15 was scrapped.[98]

SN16 was scrapped, while SN17, SN18, and SN19 were never completed.

SN20/Ship 20–Ship 23

SN20 was the first vehicle with a complete thermal protection system (TPS). SN20 rolled out to the launch mount on August 5, 2021, and was stacked onto Booster 4 for a fit test.[99][100][101] U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) filings in May 2021 by SpaceX stated that the orbital flight would launch from Boca Chica, Texas. After separation, Starship would enter orbit and around 90 minutes later attempt a soft ocean landing around 100 km off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii.[102] However, S20 was retired in March 2022. As of April 2024, SN20 (Ship 20) remains in the Rocket Garden.

Ship 21 was scrapped before being completed.[103]

Ship 22 moved to the Rocket Garden in late February 2022. Its nosecone was converted into a Human Landing System interior mockup. 3d Artist TheSpaceEngineer has claimed that this mockup features two decks, the first containing the life support systems (ECLSS), and the second serving as habitation for the crew.[104]

Ship 23 was scrapped and partially recycled in Ship 24.[105]

SN8 and SN9

SN8 was planned to be built out of 304L stainless steel,[57] although some parts may have used 301L steel.[58] In late October and November, SN8 underwent four static fires. During the third test, on November 12, 2020, debris from the pad caused the vehicle to lose pneumatics.[59] Launch took place on December 9. Launch, ascent, reorientation, and controlled descent were successful, but low pressure in the methane header tank[60] kept the engines from producing enough thrust for the landing burn, destroying SN8 on impact.[61]

On December 11, 2020, the stand beneath SN9 failed, causing the vehicle to tip and contact the walls inside the High Bay assembly building.[62] SN9 then required a replacement forward flap.[63] SN9 conducted 6 static fires in January 2021,[64] including three static fires in one day.[65] After these tests, two engines had to be replaced.[66] After struggling to gain U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) permission,[67] SN9 conducted a 10 km flight test on February 2. Ascent, engine cutoffs, reorientation and controlled descent were stable, but one engine's oxygen pre-burner failed, sending SN9 crashing into the landing pad.[68] The landing pad was then reinforced with an additional layer of concrete.[69] After the SN9 failure, all three engines were used to perform the belly flop landing sequence. This offered a failsafe should one fail to ignite.[70][71]

SN10–SN14

SN10 underwent a cryogenic proof test on February 8, 2021, followed by a static fire on February 23.[72] After an engine swap, another static fire was conducted on February 25.[73]

Two launch attempts were conducted on March 3. The first attempt was automatically aborted after one engine produced too much thrust while throttling up. After a 3-hour delay to increase the tolerance,[74] the second attempt launched and landed successfully. The test ended with a hard landing-at 10 m/s – most likely due to partial helium ingestion from the fuel header tank. Three landing legs were not locked in place, producing a slight lean after landing. Although the vehicle initially remained intact, the impact crushed the legs and part of the leg skirt. Eight minutes later the prototype exploded.[75][76]

SN11 accomplished a cryogenic proof test on March 12 that included a test of the Reaction control system (RCS),[77][78] followed by a static fire test on March 15, 2021. Immediately after ignition, the test was aborted.[79] Another static fire attempt[80] led to reports that one of the three engines had been removed for repairs.[81] A replacement engine was installed[82] and a third static fire was attempted on March 26.[83] A 10 km flight test was conducted in heavy fog on March 30. The test included engine cutoffs, flip maneuver, flap control and descent, along with a visible fire on engine 2[84] during the ascent. Just after the defective engine was re-ignited for the landing burn, SN11 lost telemetry at T+ 5:49 and disintegrated.[85]

SN12 through SN14 never launched.[86]

SN15–SN19

SN15 introduced improved avionics software, an updated aft skirt propellant architecture, and a new Raptor design and configuration.[87][88] A Starlink antenna on the side of the vehicle was another new feature.[89] SN15 underwent an ambient temperature pressure test on April 9, 2021,[90] followed by a cryogenic proof test on April 12, and a header tank cryogenic proof test on April 13.[91][92] A static fire was conducted on April 26,[93][94] and a header tank static fire on April 27 followed.[95] A 10 km high-altitude flight test was conducted in overcast weather on May 5, achieving a soft touchdown. A small fire near the base started shortly after landing, though this was extinguished.[96] After its engines were removed, it was moved to the Rocket Garden on May 31, 2021.[97] On July 26, 2023, SN15 was scrapped.[98]

SN16 was scrapped, while SN17, SN18, and SN19 were never completed.

SN20/Ship 20–Ship 23

SN20 was the first vehicle with a complete thermal protection system (TPS). SN20 rolled out to the launch mount on August 5, 2021, and was stacked onto Booster 4 for a fit test.[99][100][101] U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) filings in May 2021 by SpaceX stated that the orbital flight would launch from Boca Chica, Texas. After separation, Starship would enter orbit and around 90 minutes later attempt a soft ocean landing around 100 km off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii.[102] However, S20 was retired in March 2022. As of April 2024, SN20 (Ship 20) remains in the Rocket Garden.

Ship 21 was scrapped before being completed.[103]

Ship 22 moved to the Rocket Garden in late February 2022. Its nosecone was converted into a Human Landing System interior mockup. 3d Artist TheSpaceEngineer has claimed that this mockup features two decks, the first containing the life support systems (ECLSS), and the second serving as habitation for the crew.[104]

Ship 23 was scrapped and partially recycled in Ship 24.[105]

Block 1 launches (S24–S32)

Ships 24 and 25

Ship 24 was first spotted in November 2021, and conducted cryogenic proof tests on June 2, 2022, June 6, and June 7.[106][107] On June 9, Ship 24 was rolled back to the production site for engine installation,[108] and was rolled to Suborbital Pad B on July 5.[109][110] Ship 24 conducted a series of spin prime tests in mid-late July.[111][112][113][114] It completed a two engine static fire test on August 9,[115] followed by an additional spin prime test on August 25.[116] On September 8, 2022, Ship 24 underwent a six engine static fire test.[117] The ship was subsequently stacked on top of Booster 7 in mid-October, followed by two destacks in October and early November.[118][119][120] On December 15, Ship 24 conducted a single engine static test fire.[121][122] In January 2023, Booster 7 and Ship 24 conducted a Wet Dress Rehearsal.[123] On April 20, 2023, Ship 24 was destroyed in flight along with Booster 7 after spinning out of control.[124][125]

Ship 25 was a Starship prototype similar to Ship 24, equipped with a heat shield and a payload bay, though this was permanently welded shut.[126] It was used to test the cryogenic test stand at Massey's test site.[127] During the third week of May 2023, Ship 25 was moved to the launch site and lifted onto suborbital pad B for engine testing.[126] On June 21, 2023, Ship 25 performed a successful spin prime test,[128] followed by a six engine static fire test.[129] It was lifted onto B9 for the first time on September 5, and was destacked several times throughout the rest of the month and mid October.[130] On October 22, B9 underwent two partial cryogenic tests, while S25 was not tested,[131] followed by a full wet dress rehearsal (WDR) two days later.[132] On November 18, 2023, Ship 25 was launched atop Booster 9 on the second Integrated Flight Test, with Ship 25 successfully separating from Booster 9.[133] Near the end of its burn, a LOX dump started a fire in the engine bay, causing an explosion.[133] The autonomous flight termination system activated, destroying the vehicle.[133]

Ships 26 and 27

Ship 26 was an expendable Starship prototype, lacking heat shield tiles and flaps. Ship 26 also lacked a payload bay door. On September 9, 2023, S26 was moved to Suborbital Pad B for static fire testing.[134] S26 then underwent a cryogenic test on October 9, 2023, followed by a preburner test with a single engine nine days later,[135] and a single engine static fire test on October 20, 2023, simulating a deorbit burn. S26 was rolled to the Massey's site on May 8, 2024, for static fire stand testing.[136] S26 conducted a cryogenic test on May 24,[137] followed by a six engine static fire on June 3.[138] S26's engines were removed on August 14.[139] It was moved into the High Bay on November 20,[140] where it was scrapped.[141]

Like S26, S27 was an expendable prototype, lacking heat shield tiles. It was the first Ship to have a reinforced payload dispenser. Ship 27 was scrapped on July 20, 2023, after the common dome failed.[142] S27's aft section was then converted into a test article for the engine shielding design present on S25.[130]

Ships 28–32

Ship 28, along with subsequent Block 1 models, features heat shield tiles as well as reinforced Starlink satellite dispensers.[143] S28 underwent cryogenic testing in July 2023.[144] On December 14, S28 was moved to the launch site and lifted onto Suborbital Pad B,[145] where it completed a spin prime test on December 16,[146] followed by a six engine static fire test on December 20,[147] and a deorbit burn test on December 29.[145] S28 was moved to the Orbital Launch Site for IFT-3 on February 10,[148] and was stacked onto B10.[149] The combined vehicle conducted two aborted wet dress rehearsal attempts on February 14 and 16.[150][151] It was returned to Suborbital Pad B on February 19,[152] where underwent a spin prime test on February 26,[153] On March 3, 2024, B10 and S28 completed a wet dress rehearsal,[154] followed by a final destack on March 5 for FTS installation.[154] FTS was armed on March 8, 2024,[154] and S28 being restacked on March 10, 2024.[155] S28 flew with B10 on March 14, and reached orbit. It conducted tests of the Payload Dispenser and fuel transfer system, before being destroyed during reentry.[156]

On September 22, 2023, S29 was moved to Massey's for cryogenic testing, where it was cryogenically tested on September 26.[157] On February 29, S29 was moved to the launch site,[158] where it underwent a cryogenic test on March 7,[159] followed by a spin prime test on March 11.[160] On March 12, 2024, S29 was briefly removed from the launch site to prevent damage from IFT-3, before returning ahead of two static fire tests on March 25 and 27.[161] On May 15, S29 was lifted onto B11, with the combined vehicle completing a partial cryogenic test on May 16,[162] and a full wet dress rehearsal on May 20.[163] A second wet dress rehearsal was conducted on May 28.[164] On May 29, S29 was destacked for final tile work and Flight Termination System (FTS) Installation,[165] with FTS installation occurring on May 30.[165] S29 was stacked onto B11 for the final time on June 5.[166] On June 6, S29 was launched with B11 on IFT-4, with S29 completing a full ascent burn with no engine failures.[167] It retained attitude control into reentry, despite the near-complete loss of a forward flap,[167] and achieved a successful landing burn.[167]

S30 was moved to Massey's test site for cryogenic testing on December 30, 2023.[168] On January 3, 2024, S30 underwent its first cryogenic test.[169] On May 1, it was rolled to the Suborbital Launch Site,[170] where it was lifted onto Suborbital Pad B for static fire testing.[171] It conducted a cryogenic test on May 7,[172] followed by an aborted static fire test,[173] and a 6 engine static fire test on May 8. On June 11, SpaceX began removing and replacing S30s thermal protection system, adding a backup ablative layer.[174][175] S30 was rolled to Massey's on July 21,[176] ahead of a 6 engine static fire on July 26,[177] and rolled back to the production site on July 27.[178] One of S30's Raptor Vacuum engines was replaced on August 3,[179] and it was rolled back to Massey's on August 6,[180] where it conducted a spin prime test on August 7.[181] SpaceX claimed that Booster 12 (B12) and S30 were ready to fly on August 8.[181] S30 was then rolled back to the production site.[182] On September 21, S30 was lifted onto B12.[183] A partial wet dress rehearsal was conducted on September 23.[184] followed by a second partial wet dress rehearsal on October 7,[185] followed by S30 being destacked for FTS installation.[186] FTS was installed on both vehicles on October 9,[187] and S30 was stacked onto B12 for Flight 5 on October 11.[188] On October 13, S30 launched on B12, and reached the desired trajectory after a nominal ascent burn with no engine failures. Like S29, S30 retained attitude control through reentry, and successfully reignited its engines for a splashdown in the Indian Ocean.[189] As of October 13, 2024, S30 is the heaviest artificial object to reenter Earth's atmosphere.[190]

On December 14, 2023, S31 was moved to the Rocket Garden,[191] before being moved back into the High Bay on January 4.[192] It was rolled to Massey's test site for cryogenic testing on May 11,[193] with the first test ending prematurely due to an electrical anomaly.[194] After being repaired, it returned to Massey's,[195] where it was cryogenically tested on July 2 and 3.[196] On July 5, S31 was moved to Mega Bay 2 for engine installation.[197] The process of replacing S31's thermal protection system began in early August.[198] On September 6, S31 was rolled to Massey's for static fire testing.[199] It attempted to static fire on September 8, with the test being aborted due to the weather.[200] S31 conducted a static fire on September 18,[201] and it was rolled back to the production site on September 20.[202] S31 was moved to the launch site for IFT-6 on November 11,[203] where its Flight Termination System was installed on November 12.[204] It was stacked onto Booster 13 (B13) on November 14,[205] with the combined vehicle conducted a partial wet dress rehearsal on November 17.[206] On November 19, S31 launched on B13, and reached the desired trajectory.[207] After conducting a relight of a raptor engine, S31 reentered the atmosphere, and successfully completed the landing burn for a splashdown in the Indian Ocean.[207] Several components of S31, including multiple tiles and COPVs, were recovered for analysis in Australia.[208][209]

On November 24, Elon Musk implied that S32 would be the last Block 1 starship.[210] SpaceX later confirmed that Flight 7 and subsequent launches would use Block 2 vehicles.[211] It was rolled into the High Bay on February 7, 2025,[212] where S32 was scrapped.[213]

Ships 24 and 25

Ship 24 was first spotted in November 2021, and conducted cryogenic proof tests on June 2, 2022, June 6, and June 7.[106][107] On June 9, Ship 24 was rolled back to the production site for engine installation,[108] and was rolled to Suborbital Pad B on July 5.[109][110] Ship 24 conducted a series of spin prime tests in mid-late July.[111][112][113][114] It completed a two engine static fire test on August 9,[115] followed by an additional spin prime test on August 25.[116] On September 8, 2022, Ship 24 underwent a six engine static fire test.[117] The ship was subsequently stacked on top of Booster 7 in mid-October, followed by two destacks in October and early November.[118][119][120] On December 15, Ship 24 conducted a single engine static test fire.[121][122] In January 2023, Booster 7 and Ship 24 conducted a Wet Dress Rehearsal.[123] On April 20, 2023, Ship 24 was destroyed in flight along with Booster 7 after spinning out of control.[124][125]

Ship 25 was a Starship prototype similar to Ship 24, equipped with a heat shield and a payload bay, though this was permanently welded shut.[126] It was used to test the cryogenic test stand at Massey's test site.[127] During the third week of May 2023, Ship 25 was moved to the launch site and lifted onto suborbital pad B for engine testing.[126] On June 21, 2023, Ship 25 performed a successful spin prime test,[128] followed by a six engine static fire test.[129] It was lifted onto B9 for the first time on September 5, and was destacked several times throughout the rest of the month and mid October.[130] On October 22, B9 underwent two partial cryogenic tests, while S25 was not tested,[131] followed by a full wet dress rehearsal (WDR) two days later.[132] On November 18, 2023, Ship 25 was launched atop Booster 9 on the second Integrated Flight Test, with Ship 25 successfully separating from Booster 9.[133] Near the end of its burn, a LOX dump started a fire in the engine bay, causing an explosion.[133] The autonomous flight termination system activated, destroying the vehicle.[133]

Ships 26 and 27

Ship 26 was an expendable Starship prototype, lacking heat shield tiles and flaps. Ship 26 also lacked a payload bay door. On September 9, 2023, S26 was moved to Suborbital Pad B for static fire testing.[134] S26 then underwent a cryogenic test on October 9, 2023, followed by a preburner test with a single engine nine days later,[135] and a single engine static fire test on October 20, 2023, simulating a deorbit burn. S26 was rolled to the Massey's site on May 8, 2024, for static fire stand testing.[136] S26 conducted a cryogenic test on May 24,[137] followed by a six engine static fire on June 3.[138] S26's engines were removed on August 14.[139] It was moved into the High Bay on November 20,[140] where it was scrapped.[141]

Like S26, S27 was an expendable prototype, lacking heat shield tiles. It was the first Ship to have a reinforced payload dispenser. Ship 27 was scrapped on July 20, 2023, after the common dome failed.[142] S27's aft section was then converted into a test article for the engine shielding design present on S25.[130]

Ships 28–32

Ship 28, along with subsequent Block 1 models, features heat shield tiles as well as reinforced Starlink satellite dispensers.[143] S28 underwent cryogenic testing in July 2023.[144] On December 14, S28 was moved to the launch site and lifted onto Suborbital Pad B,[145] where it completed a spin prime test on December 16,[146] followed by a six engine static fire test on December 20,[147] and a deorbit burn test on December 29.[145] S28 was moved to the Orbital Launch Site for IFT-3 on February 10,[148] and was stacked onto B10.[149] The combined vehicle conducted two aborted wet dress rehearsal attempts on February 14 and 16.[150][151] It was returned to Suborbital Pad B on February 19,[152] where underwent a spin prime test on February 26,[153] On March 3, 2024, B10 and S28 completed a wet dress rehearsal,[154] followed by a final destack on March 5 for FTS installation.[154] FTS was armed on March 8, 2024,[154] and S28 being restacked on March 10, 2024.[155] S28 flew with B10 on March 14, and reached orbit. It conducted tests of the Payload Dispenser and fuel transfer system, before being destroyed during reentry.[156]

On September 22, 2023, S29 was moved to Massey's for cryogenic testing, where it was cryogenically tested on September 26.[157] On February 29, S29 was moved to the launch site,[158] where it underwent a cryogenic test on March 7,[159] followed by a spin prime test on March 11.[160] On March 12, 2024, S29 was briefly removed from the launch site to prevent damage from IFT-3, before returning ahead of two static fire tests on March 25 and 27.[161] On May 15, S29 was lifted onto B11, with the combined vehicle completing a partial cryogenic test on May 16,[162] and a full wet dress rehearsal on May 20.[163] A second wet dress rehearsal was conducted on May 28.[164] On May 29, S29 was destacked for final tile work and Flight Termination System (FTS) Installation,[165] with FTS installation occurring on May 30.[165] S29 was stacked onto B11 for the final time on June 5.[166] On June 6, S29 was launched with B11 on IFT-4, with S29 completing a full ascent burn with no engine failures.[167] It retained attitude control into reentry, despite the near-complete loss of a forward flap,[167] and achieved a successful landing burn.[167]

S30 was moved to Massey's test site for cryogenic testing on December 30, 2023.[168] On January 3, 2024, S30 underwent its first cryogenic test.[169] On May 1, it was rolled to the Suborbital Launch Site,[170] where it was lifted onto Suborbital Pad B for static fire testing.[171] It conducted a cryogenic test on May 7,[172] followed by an aborted static fire test,[173] and a 6 engine static fire test on May 8. On June 11, SpaceX began removing and replacing S30s thermal protection system, adding a backup ablative layer.[174][175] S30 was rolled to Massey's on July 21,[176] ahead of a 6 engine static fire on July 26,[177] and rolled back to the production site on July 27.[178] One of S30's Raptor Vacuum engines was replaced on August 3,[179] and it was rolled back to Massey's on August 6,[180] where it conducted a spin prime test on August 7.[181] SpaceX claimed that Booster 12 (B12) and S30 were ready to fly on August 8.[181] S30 was then rolled back to the production site.[182] On September 21, S30 was lifted onto B12.[183] A partial wet dress rehearsal was conducted on September 23.[184] followed by a second partial wet dress rehearsal on October 7,[185] followed by S30 being destacked for FTS installation.[186] FTS was installed on both vehicles on October 9,[187] and S30 was stacked onto B12 for Flight 5 on October 11.[188] On October 13, S30 launched on B12, and reached the desired trajectory after a nominal ascent burn with no engine failures. Like S29, S30 retained attitude control through reentry, and successfully reignited its engines for a splashdown in the Indian Ocean.[189] As of October 13, 2024, S30 is the heaviest artificial object to reenter Earth's atmosphere.[190]

On December 14, 2023, S31 was moved to the Rocket Garden,[191] before being moved back into the High Bay on January 4.[192] It was rolled to Massey's test site for cryogenic testing on May 11,[193] with the first test ending prematurely due to an electrical anomaly.[194] After being repaired, it returned to Massey's,[195] where it was cryogenically tested on July 2 and 3.[196] On July 5, S31 was moved to Mega Bay 2 for engine installation.[197] The process of replacing S31's thermal protection system began in early August.[198] On September 6, S31 was rolled to Massey's for static fire testing.[199] It attempted to static fire on September 8, with the test being aborted due to the weather.[200] S31 conducted a static fire on September 18,[201] and it was rolled back to the production site on September 20.[202] S31 was moved to the launch site for IFT-6 on November 11,[203] where its Flight Termination System was installed on November 12.[204] It was stacked onto Booster 13 (B13) on November 14,[205] with the combined vehicle conducted a partial wet dress rehearsal on November 17.[206] On November 19, S31 launched on B13, and reached the desired trajectory.[207] After conducting a relight of a raptor engine, S31 reentered the atmosphere, and successfully completed the landing burn for a splashdown in the Indian Ocean.[207] Several components of S31, including multiple tiles and COPVs, were recovered for analysis in Australia.[208][209]

On November 24, Elon Musk implied that S32 would be the last Block 1 starship.[210] SpaceX later confirmed that Flight 7 and subsequent launches would use Block 2 vehicles.[211] It was rolled into the High Bay on February 7, 2025,[212] where S32 was scrapped.[213]

Block 2 launches (S33–S38)

Block 2 ships feature a new forward flap design, increased propellant capacity, and an increase in thrust.[214] Additionally, the leeward side of the vehicle has some external stringers.[215] These vehicles will be a total of 1.8 m meters taller than the previous Block 1 ships.[214]

On July 24, 2024, S33's nosecone and payload bay were rolled into Mega Bay 2 (MB2).[216] Stacking of the vehicle was completed on August 23.[217] On October 26, S33 rolled to the Massey's test site,[218] where it conducted a series of cryogenic tests.[219] After engine installation, it returned to Massey's test site on December 11.[220] It conducted a spin prime on December 12[220] with an aborted static fire on December 14,[221] and a static fire on December 15.[222] This was followed by a single engine static fire,[223] and a return to MB2 for final pre-flight modifications.[224] Payload integration occurred on January 7.[225] Ship 33 rolled to the launch site for launch on January 9,[226] where it was stacked onto Booster 14 (B14),[227] surpassing Starship Block 1 as the tallest rocket ever assembled.[228] The combined vehicle conducted a wet dress rehearsal on January 10,[229] before being destacked on the 11th.[230] It was restacked for launch the next day.[231] On January 16, Ship 33 launched atop Booster 14, but was destroyed during the ascent burn.[232]

On September 19, 2024, S34's nosecone was rolled into the High Bay ahead of integration with the payload bay.[233] The combined assembly was then rolled into the Starfactory,[234] and from there into Mega Bay 2.[235] On January 15, 2025, S34 rolled to the Massey's test site for cryogenic testing.[236] It completed its first test on January 17,[237] followed by a second cryo test.[238] It then returned to Mega Bay 2 for engine and aft flap installation.[239] S34 rolled to Massey's for static fire testing on February 10.[240] It conducted a long duration static fire on February 11,[241] before returning to Mega Bay 2.[242] Starlink simulators were installed on March 1,[243] after which S34 was rolled to the launch site and lifted onto B15 for launch.[244][245] A launch attempt was aborted late into the count on March 3.[246] S34 was destacked on March 4,[247] and restacked on March 5 after an aborted attempt earlier that day.[248] On March 6, S34 launched with B15, successfully separating from the booster.[249] Like on the previous flight, S34 was destroyed late into the ascent burn, spinning out of control before losing contact.[249]

S35's payload bay was rolled into the High Bay ahead of stacking with its nosecone.[250] Stacking was completed on January 31,[251] with S35 rolling to Massey's on March 10.[252] It conducted three cryogenic tests on March 11 and 12,[253][254] and returned to the production site on March 13.[255] On April 29, S35 was rolled to Massey's test site,[256] before aborting a static fire the same day.[257] It conducted a single engine static fire on April 30,[258] replicating an "in-space burn".[259] After a static fire was aborted on May 1,[260] S35 performed a long duration second static fire on the same day,[261] before returning to Mega Bay 2 for inspections.[256] After a week in Mega Bay 2, it was rolled to Massey's for additional static fire testing.[262] A static fire attempt was aborted on May 11,[263] with the long duration test being completed on May 12.[264] It was then rolled back into Mega Bay 2 on May 13,[265] before returning to Massey's for additional engine testing.[266] It aborted a spin prime attempt on May 22,[267] completing the test later that day.[268] It returned to Mega Bay 2 on May 23,[269] where it received its eight Starlink simulators on May 24.[270] S35 rolled to the launch site on May 25,[271] where it was lifted onto B14.[272] S35 launched atop B14 on May 25, and successfully separated from the booster.[273] Unlike on flights 7 and 8, S35 successfully made it past engine cutoff.[273] Due to an issue with the payload door, it did not deploy its eight Starlink simulators.[273] Additionally, a fuel leak resulted in a loss of attitude control of the ship.[273] This resulted in S35 being safed before reentry, which includes the venting of all onboard propellant.[273]

S36's payload bay and nosecone rolled into Mega Bay 2 in mid February.[242] Stacking completed after one month.[274] On April 26, S36 was rolled to Massey's for cryogenic testing,[256] where it conducted a cryogenic test on April 27.[256] It returned to the production site on April 29.[256] S36 was rolled to the Massey's test site on June 15,[275] followed by a single engine static fire test on June 16.[276] As propellant was being loaded for static fire testing on June 18, Ship 36's upper half became compromised, with preliminary indications suggesting a COPV failure at the payload bay.[255][277] This caused an explosion which destroyed the vehicle and severely damaged the Massey's test site.[278]

S37's payload bay and nosecone were moved into Mega Bay 2 (MB2) on March 15, 2025.[255] Its CH4 transfer tubes were moved into MB2 in mid April.[279] On May 29, S37 was rolled to the Massey's test site for cryogenic testing.[280] After completing these tests, it returned to MB2 on June 4.[281] On July 28, S37 was rolled to the launch site for a static fire,[282] where it was lifted onto Pad 1.[283] Ship 37 aborted a single engine static fire attempt on July 30.[284] The test was complete on July 31,[285] followed by a six engine static fire test on August 1.[286] It returned to MB2 on August 3,[287] where a Raptor Vacuum was replaced on August 5.[288] It was rolled to Pad 1 on August 11 for additional engine testing.[289] The first attempt at the test was aborted on August 12,[290] with the second attempt resulting in a spin prime on August 13.[291] It returned to Mega Bay 2 on August 14,[292] with payload integration occurring on August 23.[293] Following this, S37 was rolled to the launch site and stacked onto Booster 16.[294] The first launch attempt was aborted about ten minutes into propellant load,[295] with a second scrub forty seconds before the launch target.[296] The third attempt to launch was successful, with S37 successfully deploying eight Starlink simulators.[297] It then went on to relight one of its engines in space, before reentering and splashing down in the Indian Ocean.[297]

S38's nosecone was stacked onto its payload bay with flaps in mid April 2025.[279] It was rolled to the Massey's test site for cryogenic testing on July 27.[298] On July 30, S38 conducted a cryogenic proof test,[299] followed by a return to the production site on August 1.[299] Engine Installation began on August 14.[292] S38 rolled out to Pad 1 on September 17 for static fire testing.[300] The first static fire attempt ended in an abort as propellant load began on the vehicle.[301] A second attempt on September 19 also ended in an abort,[302] with the test being completed on the third attempt.[303] S38 would then return to Mega Bay 2 on September 24.[304] On October 11, following installation of its payload,[305] S38 returned to Pad-1 for flight test 11, where it was stacked onto B15-2.[306]

Block 3 launches (S39–subsequent)

Block 3 ships feature a different tile design,[307] Raptor 3 engines,[308] as well as hardware for refueling operations in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), such as docking ports and a redesigned quick disconnect.[308] The switch to Raptor 3 also enables the removal of most of the aft section's shielding.[308]

S39's LOX (liquid oxygen) header tank was spotted in Starfactory on March 16, 2025.[309] It was installed into its nosecone on April 9.[310] The payload bay was integrated with the rest of the nosecone in mid August.[311] Stacking of the ship concluded in mid November.[312] S39 rolled to Massey's on a repurposed static fire stand on February 26, 2026,[313] where it conducted a cryogenic test on February 28.[314] This testing continued on March 2,[315] with the vehicle returning to the production site on March 8.[316] Rollout for engine testing occurred on April 11,[317] with a potential spin prime on April 12.[318] Ship 39 completed a roughly minute long static fire on April 14.[319]

S40's stacking completed on March 2.[315]

Test articles

Starship-based test articles

Liquid Oxygen Header Test Tank (LOX HTT) was based on the LOX Header tank, as well as surrounding parts of the nosecone. On January 24, 2020, the tank underwent a pressurization test which lasted several hours.[324] The following day it was tested to destruction.[320]

SN2 was a test tank used to test welding quality and thrust puck design. The thrust puck is found on the bottom of the vehicle where in later Starship tests up to three sea-level Raptor engines would be mounted. SN2 passed a pressure test on March 8, 2020.[325][326] It was moved around the Sanchez site on August 8, 2025.[327]

SN7 was a pathfinder test article for the switch to type 304L stainless steel.[57] A cryogenic proof test was performed on June 15, 2020, achieving a pressure of 7.6 bar before a leak occurred. During a pressurize to failure test on June 23, 2020, the tank burst at an unknown pressure.[328][322]

SN7.1 was the second 304L test tank, with the goal of reaching a higher failure pressure.[57] The tank was repeatedly tested in September, and tested to destruction on September 23.[329] The bulkhead came apart at a pressure of 8 bar in ullage and 9 bar at base.[330][323]

SN7.2 was created to test thinner walls, and therefore, lower mass. It is believed to be constructed from 3 mm steel sheets rather than the 4 mm thickness of its predecessors.[331] On January 26, 2021, SN7.2 passed a cryogenic proof test. On February 4, during a pressurize to failure test, the tank developed a leak.[332][71] On March 15, SN7.2 was retired.[333][334]

S24.1 was a test article design to test the redesigned aft section present on Block 1 ships after S24. It conducted a single test on the can-crusher on October 7, 2022. After this test failed, it received modifications before completing two tests on December 5 and 6.[335]

S26.1 was a test tank designed to test the aft section of Block 1 ships after S24.1's failure. It conducted two tests on the can-crusher, before being moved off in July 2023.[336] On September 21, 2023, it was tested to destruction.[337]

S24.2 was a test article designed to test the payload bay of Starlink dispenser vehicles.[338] On September 28, 2023, it was moved to the Massey's test site. It performed two tests before subsequently being scrapped.

TT16 is a test tank designed for testing the Block 2 ship aft section,[339][340] consisting of an aft section and a small common dome section. Its official designation is not yet known.[215] On July 18, it was rolled to the Massey's test site for structural testing.[339] It conducted two cryogenic tests on July 25,[341] followed by another test on September 6, 2024.[342] It was returned to the production site in early October for scrapping.[343] In January 2025, it was moved into Starfactory, potentially to test modifications made to S34.[344] On February 4, it rolled to Masseys for additional testing,[212] this time of the bumpers needed to enable a ship to be caught.[240]

General test articles

Test Tank 1 (TT1) was a subscale test tank consisting of two forward bulkheads connected by a small barrel section. TT1 was used to test new materials and construction methods. On January 10, 2020, TT1 was tested to failure as part of an ambient temperature test, reaching a pressure of 7.1 bar.[345][347]

Test Tank 2 (TT2) was another subscale test tank similar to TT1. On January 27, 2020, TT2 underwent an ambient temperature pressure test where it reached a pressure of 7.5 bar before a leak occurred.[348] Two days later, it underwent a cryogenic proof test to destruction, bursting at 8.5 bar.[349][346][350]

GSE 4.1 was first spotted in August 2021 and was the first ground support equipment (GSE) test tank built, made from parts of GSE 4.[335] It underwent a cryogenic proof test in August 2021 before it was rolled to the Sanchez site.[351] It was rolled back to the launch site in November 2021, where it underwent an apparent cryogenic proof test to failure on January 18, 2022, where it burst at an unknown pressure.[352]

EDOME was a test tank created to test flatter domes, possibly used on future Starship prototypes. It was moved to the launch site in July 2022, and then back to the production site the next month, after undergoing no tests.[353] It was later moved from the production site to the Massey's test site in late September 2022, where it was damaged during a cryogenic pressure test to failure.[353] After repairs, it was tested to destruction in late October 2022.[353]

EDOME 2 was a test tank which is likely designed to continue testing a flatter dome design. As of October 4, 2023, its official designation is unknown. It was tested once, before being scrapped for unknown reasons.[354]

See also

References

  1. Jonathan Amos. Biggest ever rocket is assembled briefly in Texas BBC News, August 6, 2021, retrieved May 30, 2022^
  2. Enrique Dans. Elon Musk's Economies Of Scale Won SpaceX The NASA Moonshot Forbes, retrieved April 25, 2024^
  3. Jackie Wattles. Elon Musk says SpaceX's Mars rocket will be cheaper than he once thought. Here's why CNN Business, September 29, 2019, retrieved January 3, 2024^
  4. Meredith Garofalo. SpaceX wants to build 1 Starship megarocket a day with new Starfactory Space.com, June 8, 2024, retrieved June 10, 2024^
  5. Musk says SpaceX to launch first uncrewed Starships to Mars in two years Reuters, September 7, 2024, retrieved September 8, 2024^
  6. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Launches Starship Flight 7 and Catches Another Booster! January 16, 2025, retrieved February 28, 2025^
  7. Eric Berger. Elon Musk just gave another Mars speech—this time the vision seems tangible Ars Technica, April 8, 2024, retrieved June 11, 2024^
  8. Everyday Astronaut. Go up SpaceX's Starship-catching robotic launch tower with Elon Musk! May 26, 2022, retrieved June 3, 2024^
  9. SpaceX may 'cannibalize' its first Mars rocket-ship prototype in Elon Musk's race to launch Starship Business Insider, August 7, 2019, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  10. Application for new or modified radio station under FCC rules June 4, 2020, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  11. Michael Baylor. SpaceX's Starhopper completes 150 meter test hop NASASpaceFlight.com, August 27, 2019, retrieved August 27, 2019^
  12. Mike Wall. SpaceX Starhopper Rocket Prototype Aces Highest (and Final) Test Flight Space.com, August 27, 2019, retrieved August 29, 2019^
  13. Eric Ralph. SpaceX Starship leaps towards Mars with picture-perfect hop debut Teslarati, August 4, 2020, retrieved August 4, 2020^
  14. Michael Baylor. Starship SN5 conducts successful 150-meter flight test NASASpaceFlight.com, August 3, 2020, retrieved March 20, 2021^
  15. Mike Wall. Starship SN6 maiden hop complete - Super Heavy is coming NASASpaceFlight.com, September 3, 2020, retrieved March 20, 2021^
  16. NOTAM retrieved December 5, 2020^
  17. Ethan Cotton. Starship SN9: 10 kilometer flight Everyday Astronaut, January 24, 2021, retrieved February 1, 2021^
  18. Ethan Cotton. When will SN10 launch? Live Updates Everyday Astronaut, February 22, 2021, retrieved February 28, 2021^
  19. Michael Baylor. Starship SN10 History Next Spaceflight, retrieved February 28, 2021^
  20. SpaceX. Starship March 30, 2021, retrieved December 21, 2022^
  21. Mike Wall. SpaceX launches Starship SN15 rocket and sticks the landing in high-altitude test flight Space.com, May 5, 2021, retrieved May 6, 2021^
  22. NASASpaceflight. Starship's Longest Static Fire Yet! What We Learned From Ship 34 February 17, 2025, retrieved February 18, 2025^
  23. Ryan Weber. Ship 36 experiences anomaly during engine testing, next steps unclear NASASpaceFlight.com, June 19, 2025, retrieved July 9, 2025^
  24. Commercial Space Transportation Experimental Permit – Experimental Permit Number: EP19-012, FAA, June 21, 2019, accessed June 29, 2019^
  25. NASASpaceflight. Starhopper Relocates At Starbase September 3, 2024, retrieved February 12, 2025^
  26. Chris Gebhardt. Starhopper first flight as early as this week; Starship/Superheavy updates NASASpaceflight, March 18, 2019, retrieved March 22, 2019^
  27. Starhopper / WAI Hub www.whataboutit.space, retrieved December 15, 2023^
  28. Thomas Burghardt. Starhopper successfully conducts debut Boca Chica Hop NASASpaceFlight.com, July 25, 2019, retrieved October 23, 2024^
  29. Chris Gebhardt. Starhopper conducts Raptor Static Fire test NASASpaceFlight.com, April 3, 2019, retrieved April 4, 2019^
  30. Loren Grush. SpaceX just fired up the engine on its test Starship vehicle for the first time The Verge, April 3, 2019, retrieved April 4, 2019^
  31. Michael Baylor. SpaceX considering SSTO Starship launches from Pad 39A NASASpaceflight, May 17, 2019, retrieved December 16, 2019^
  32. Chris Bergin. StarHopper enjoys second Raptor Static Fire! April 5, 2019, retrieved May 23, 2019^
  33. Eric Berger. SpaceX's Starship prototype has taken flight for the first time Ars Technica, July 26, 2019, retrieved August 8, 2019^
  34. Jeff Foust. SpaceX's Starhopper completes test flight SpaceNews, August 27, 2019, retrieved August 28, 2019^
  35. Starhopper Relocates At Starbase NASASpaceflight, September 3, 2024, retrieved September 4, 2024^
  36. Eric Berger. SpaceX plans to A/B test its Starship rocketship builds ars Technica, May 15, 2019, retrieved November 19, 2022^
  37. Eric Ralph. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk: Starship prototype to have 3 Raptors and "mirror finish" Teslarati, December 24, 2018, retrieved December 24, 2018^
  38. Jeff Foust. Musk teases new details about redesigned next-generation launch system SpaceNews, December 24, 2018, retrieved December 10, 2023^
  39. Mike Wall. 'Totally Nuts'? Elon Musk Aims to Put a Starship in Orbit in 6 Months. Here's SpaceX's Plan. Space.com, September 30, 2019, retrieved May 10, 2024^
  40. Chris Bergin. Starship Mk1 arrives at launch site ahead of flight test NASASpaceFlight.com, October 30, 2019, retrieved May 31, 2021^
  41. SpaceX's Starship is a new kind of rocket, in every sense The Economist, October 5, 2019, retrieved November 23, 2019^
  42. Loren Grush. SpaceX's prototype Starship rocket partially bursts during testing in Texas The Verge, November 20, 2019, retrieved March 10, 2020^
  43. Mike Wall. SpaceX's 1st Full-Size Starship Prototype Suffers Anomaly in Pressure Test Space.com, November 20, 2019, retrieved November 21, 2019^
  44. Ronnie Marley. SpaceX moving to MK3 vehicle following incident at Boca Chica Facility CBS News, November 20, 2019, retrieved March 10, 2020^
  45. Elon Musk. We're now building flight design of Starship SN1, but each SN will have at least minor improvements, at least through SN20 or so of Starship V1.0^
  46. Michael Sheetz. Aerial video shows SpaceX beginning construction of another Starship rocket in Florida CNBC, October 17, 2019, retrieved October 18, 2019^
  47. Starship SN3 failure due to bad commanding. SN4 already under construction NASASpaceFlight.com, April 5, 2020, retrieved April 19, 2020^
  48. Eric Berger. SpaceX loses its third Starship prototype during a cryogenic test arstechnica, April 3, 2020, retrieved April 29, 2023^
  49. Michael Baylor. SN4 becomes first full-scale Starship prototype to pass cryogenic proof test NASASpaceflight, April 26, 2020, retrieved September 23, 2020^
  50. Evelyn Arevalo. SpaceX completes another round of Starship tests at Boca Chica Tesmanian, May 9, 2020, retrieved September 23, 2020^
  51. Eric Ralph. SpaceX Starship prototype charred but intact after catching fire [photos] May 22, 2020, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  52. Jeff Foust. SpaceX Starship prototype destroyed after static-fire test SpaceNews, May 29, 2020, retrieved May 30, 2020^
  53. Chris Bergin. Starship SN5 completes successful Static Fire test NASASpaceFlight.com, July 27, 2020, retrieved August 4, 2020^
  54. Darrell Etherington. SpaceX Successfully Flies its Starship Prototype to a Height of Around 500 Feet techcrunch, August 5, 2020, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  55. The crew are currently cutting around the upper portion of Starship SN5. February 4, 2021, retrieved February 4, 2021^
  56. New 3mm Thick Test Tank Stacked – Starship SN6 Scrapped NASASpaceflight, January 12, 2021, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  57. Michael Baylor. Starship SN5 set for a static fire followed shortly by a 150-meter hop attempt NASASpaceflight, July 15, 2020, retrieved July 17, 2020^
  58. As Starships line up, Musk calibrates expectations for SN8 test November 1, 2020, retrieved November 3, 2020^
  59. Michael Baylor. Starship SN8 History nextspaceflight.com, retrieved January 29, 2021^
  60. Elon Musk. Fuel header tank pressure was low during landing burn, causing touchdown velocity to be high & RUD, but we got all the data we needed! Congrats SpaceX team hell yeah!! December 9, 2020, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  61. Mike Wall. SpaceX's Starship SN8 Prototype Soars on Epic Test Launch, with Explosive Landing Scientific American, December 10, 2020, retrieved March 3, 2021^
  62. Eric Ralph. SpaceX almost drops finished Starship prototype – but it might be salvageable TESLARATI, December 14, 2020, retrieved February 13, 2021^
  63. Starship SN9 Gets a New Forward Flap – Tankzilla Prepared for move NASASpaceflight, December 20, 2020, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  64. Michael Baylor. Starship SN9 History nextspaceflight.com, retrieved January 29, 2021^
  65. Mike Wall. SpaceX's Starship SN9 prototype fires up rocket engines three times in one day Space.com, January 13, 2021, retrieved January 14, 2021^
  66. Mike Wall. SpaceX swapping out two engines on Starship SN9 prototype ahead of test flight Space.com, January 15, 2021, retrieved January 17, 2021^
  67. Jeff Foust. FAA reviews delay SpaceX Starship test SpaceNews, January 29, 2021, retrieved January 30, 2021^
  68. Chris Bergin – NSF. Nice try, SN9! But didn't hit SN10 or the Tank Farm. You're next, SN10! February 2, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  69. Starship Landing Pad Work ahead of SN10 Launch – SN11/SN16 Prepare NASASpaceflight, February 11, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  70. It was foolish of us not to start 3 engines & immediately shut down 1, as 2 are needed to land. Will these changes be able to be implemented into the SN10 test flight? Yes. February 4, 2021^
  71. Chris Bergin. Starship SN10's Raptors installed ahead of testing and refined landing attempt NASASpaceflight, February 7, 2021, retrieved February 8, 2021^
  72. Eric Ralph. SpaceX Starship static fire bodes well for a launch later this week www.teslarati.com, February 23, 2021, retrieved April 29, 2023^
  73. Mike Wall. SpaceX fires up SN10 Starship prototype for 2nd time space.com, February 25, 2021, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  74. Launch abort on slightly conservative high thrust limit. Increasing thrust limit & recycling propellant for another flight attempt today.^
  75. SpaceX's Starship rocket lands but then explodes BBC News, March 4, 2021, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  76. Elon Musk reveals why the SN10 Starship exploded Engadget, March 10, 2021, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  77. Chris Bergin – NSF. Road open and workers heading back to the pad, led by the SpaceX Security Tesla with its disco lights flashing. That concludes Cryo proof testing for Starship SN11. March 11, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  78. Starship SN11 RCS (Reaction Control System) testing. March 12, 2021, retrieved March 12, 2021^
  79. Starship SN11. Aborted Static Fire. March 15, 2021, retrieved March 15, 2021^
  80. Chris Bergin – NSF. STATIC FIRE! Starship SN11 has fired up her three engines ahead of a test flight (as early as Tuesday), pending good test data (looked/sounded good!) March 22, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  81. Michael Baylor. SpaceX will conduct a second static fire test after one of three Raptor engines on Starship SN11 had to be removed for repairs. The static fire could occur as soon as Friday, pending Raptor readiness and road closures. March 24, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  82. Trevor Mahlmann. It's up and it's good! SpaceX Raptor 46 has risen up into the engine bay to be installed March 25, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  83. Chris Bergin – NSF. STATIC FIRE! Starship SN11 fires up (at least) Raptor SN46. Providing the data review is good, a launch will be attempted later today. March 26, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  84. Elon Musk. @SpaceX Looks like engine 2 had issues on ascent & didn't reach operating chamber pressure during landing burn, but, in theory, it wasn't needed. Something significant happened shortly after landing burn start. Should know what it was once we can examine the bits later today. March 30, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  85. Chris Bergin – NSF. Ended in a RUD. Remember, it's a test program and they've gained a lot of wins from the four flights. Stable controlled descent is one, but long-duration Raptor performance deserves a shoutout. March 30, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  86. Meanwhile, at SpaceX Boca Chica Starship SN10 took a peek out of the high bay as Starship SN12's aft section was being scrapped. January 23, 2021^
  87. Major upgrades are slated for SN15 November 25, 2020^
  88. Starship SN15 Flight Test SpaceX, May 5, 2021, retrieved May 6, 2021^
  89. SpaceX installs Starlink dish on upgraded Starship prototype April 14, 2021, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  90. Today, SpaceX teams conducted an ambient pressure test of Starship SN15. April 9, 2021^
  91. SpaceX's upgraded Starship gets frosty during cryogenic proof test Teslarati, April 12, 2021, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  92. When will SN15 launch? Live Updates April 8, 2021, retrieved April 14, 2021^
  93. STATIC FIRE! April 26, 2021^
  94. Starship SN15 static fire completed, preparing for flight later this week April 27, 2021^
  95. Starship SN15 static fires its Raptors again, though this time we believe only a single was engine fired. April 28, 2021^
  96. John Timmer. SpaceX successfully lands a Starship test flight Ars Technica, May 5, 2021, retrieved May 7, 2023^
  97. SN15 The Starship Campaign, retrieved November 19, 2021^
  98. Jack Beyer. RIP SN15 July 27, 2023, retrieved September 11, 2024^
  99. SN20 Leg Skirt Spotted – BN1 Booster Double Section Lifted Onto New Stand NASASpaceflight, March 8, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  100. As Starship SN15 prepares to roll to the launch site, the Forward Dome of SN20 has been spotted, with this vehicle set to be an Orbital Class Starship. April 7, 2021^
  101. The current status of SpaceX's Starship & Superheavy prototypes April 9, 2021^
  102. Stephen Clark. SpaceX outlines plans for Starship orbital test flight – Spaceflight Now retrieved May 14, 2021^
  103. NASASpaceflight. Ship 21 Finally Scrapped April 15, 2022, retrieved February 28, 2025^
  104. TheSpaceEngineer. SpaceX's first true Human Landing System prototype. November 2, 2024, retrieved November 2, 2024^
  105. Mike Wall. SpaceX fires up Starship and Super Heavy Booster 7 ahead of test flight August 10, 2022, retrieved August 11, 2022^
  106. Ship 24 Undergoes Third Cryo Proof Test June 8, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  107. Ship 24 Completes Cryogenic Proof Testing June 3, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  108. Ship 24 Rolled Back for Raptor Installation June 9, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  109. Starship 24 Rolled To The Launch Site July 5, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  110. Ship 24 Lifted Onto Pad B for Testing July 7, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  111. Ship 24 Spin Prime Testing July 18, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  112. Fresh Raptor Engines Arrive (while others depart) July 21, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  113. Ship 24 Raptor Engines Tested with Two Spin Primes July 22, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  114. Starship and Booster Engine Testing Double Header August 9, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  115. Starship 24 Static Fire Testing August 9, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  116. Booster and Ship Spin Prime Testing August 26, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  117. Starship 24 Six Engine Static Fire Test September 8, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  118. Starship 24 Destacked Amid Potential Problems October 18, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  119. Starship 25 Rolled out and Starship 24 Re-Stacked October 20, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  120. Ship 24 Destacked from Booster 7 for Static Fire November 9, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  121. Starship 24 Single Engine Static Fire December 15, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  122. Booster 9 Rolls Out With All New Design December 16, 2022, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  123. Jeff Foust. SpaceX completes Starship wet dress rehearsal SpaceNews, January 24, 2023, retrieved January 28, 2023^
  124. Starship 24 Destacked and Rolled Back for Final Launch Preparations January 27, 2023, retrieved January 27, 2023^
  125. Ship 24 Prepared for Flight January 31, 2023, retrieved January 31, 2023^
  126. NASASpaceflight. Ship 25 Takes Off! (Crane-Assisted) May 20, 2023, retrieved February 28, 2025^
  127. NASASpaceflight. Ship 25 Moved to New Test Site March 2, 2023, retrieved February 28, 2025^
  128. NASASpaceflight. Ship 25 Begins Testing Its Raptor Engines June 22, 2023, retrieved February 28, 2025^
  129. NASASpaceflight. Starship 25 Six Engine Static Fire Test - SpaceX Boca Chica June 26, 2023, retrieved February 28, 2025^
  130. Ryan Weber. SpaceX gearing up for a possible WDR as it waits for regulatory approval NASASpaceFlight.com, October 15, 2023, retrieved February 28, 2025^
  131. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Full Stack Testing at Starbase - Starship 25 on Booster 9 October 22, 2023, retrieved February 28, 2025^
  132. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Performs Wet Dress Rehearsal of Second Starship Flight Stack October 24, 2023, retrieved February 28, 2025^
  133. Ryan Weber. After upgrades, Starship achieves numerous successes during second test flight NASASpaceFlight.com, November 17, 2023, retrieved March 18, 2024^
  134. Ship 26 Rolled Out for Static Fire September 10, 2023, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  135. Ship 26 Tested, Hot Stage Ring Removed Again October 11, 2023, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  136. Booster 11 Lifted Onto the OLM for Pre-Launch Testing NASASpaceflight, May 12, 2024, retrieved May 12, 2024^
  137. RGV Aerial Photography. Second Launch Tower Construction Begins! May 25, 2024, retrieved May 25, 2024^
  138. It's Launch Week! (BONUS: Ship 26 Static Fire @ Masseys) NASASpaceflight, June 3, 2024, retrieved June 3, 2024^
  139. Chris Bergin. Old test vehicle Ship 26 is having its engines removed August 14, 2024, retrieved August 14, 2024^
  140. Zack Golden. After allowing it to live long enough to see the last of its V1 Counterparts fly November 20, 2024, retrieved November 20, 2024^
  141. Aaron McCrea. Starbase continues its rapid pace of advancement after Starship Flight 6 NASASpaceFlight.com, November 27, 2024, retrieved November 28, 2024^
  142. Booster 9 Rolled Out and Lifted onto the Launch Mount July 21, 2023, retrieved December 17, 2023^
  143. NASASpaceflight. Ship 28 Completes Critical Test Fire December 21, 2023, retrieved March 1, 2025^
  144. NASASpaceflight. First Hot Staging Ring Rolled Out for Testing August 3, 2023, retrieved March 1, 2025^
  145. Make Way! Starbase Demolitions Clear Room for Starfactory June 7, 2023, retrieved June 8, 2023^
  146. NASASpaceflight. Next Flight Starship Rolled Out and Tested December 17, 2023, retrieved March 1, 2025^
  147. NASASpaceflight. Ship 28 Static Fire December 20, 2023, retrieved March 1, 2025^
  148. NASASpaceflight. The Full Starship Stack is Back and Ready For Testing February 14, 2024, retrieved March 13, 2025^
  149. NASASpaceflight. The Full Starship Stack is Back and Ready For Testing February 14, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  150. NASASpaceflight. Crucial Starship Pre-Launch Test Aborted Twice February 17, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  151. SpaceX Performs Second Attempt of B10/S28 Wet Dress Rehearsal NASASpaceflight, February 16, 2024, retrieved February 16, 2024^
  152. NASASpaceflight. Ship 28 on Pad B Potentially for More Testing February 24, 2024, retrieved March 13, 2025^
  153. NASASpaceflight. Ship 28 Awaits Re-stacking on Booster 10 February 28, 2024, retrieved March 13, 2025^
  154. NASASpaceflight. Final Preparations Before Launch March 10, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  155. NASASpaceflight. Starship is Ready for Launch March 12, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  156. SpaceX Launches Third Starship Flight Test NASASpaceflight, March 14, 2024, retrieved March 14, 2024^
  157. NASASpaceflight. Booster 9 Hotstage Ring Removed September 23, 2023, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  158. NASASpaceflight. Ship 28 Stacked Once Again March 2, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  159. SpaceX Tests Ship 29 in Preparation for the Fourth Starship Flight NASASpaceflight, March 7, 2024, retrieved March 7, 2024^
  160. SpaceX Tests Ship 29 Again in Preparation for the Fourth Starship Flight NASASpaceflight, March 11, 2024, retrieved March 11, 2024^
  161. SpaceX Static Fires Ship 29 in Preparation for the Fourth Starship Flight NASASpaceflight, March 25, 2024, retrieved March 25, 2024^
  162. SpaceX Tests the Full Stack of the Fourth Starship Flight Test NASASpaceflight, May 16, 2024, retrieved May 16, 2024^
  163. SpaceX Performs Wet Dress Rehearsal of Fourth Starship Flight Stack NASASpaceflight, May 20, 2024, retrieved May 20, 2024^
  164. SpaceX Performs Second Wet Dress Rehearsal of Fourth Starship Flight Stack NASASpaceflight, May 28, 2024, retrieved May 28, 2024^
  165. NASASpaceflight. Flight Termination Charges Installed for Starship Flight 4 June 1, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  166. NASASpaceflight. Ship 26 Conducts First Static Fire on New Stand June 4, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  167. SpaceX Launches Second Starship Flight Test NASASpaceflight, November 18, 2023, retrieved November 30, 2023^
  168. NASASpaceflight. Booster 10 Rolled Back for Final Launch Checks January 3, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  169. NASASpaceflight. Ship 28 Rolled Back for Pre-Flight Preps January 6, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  170. SpaceX Rolls Ship 30 for Testing NASASpaceflight, May 1, 2024, retrieved May 1, 2024^
  171. Flight 5 Starship Rolled Out and Ready to Test NASASpaceflight, May 4, 2024, retrieved May 4, 2024^
  172. OLM Tested Ahead of Starship Flight 4 NASASpaceflight, May 8, 2024, retrieved May 10, 2024^
  173. SpaceX Static Fires Ship 30 in Preparation for the Fifth Starship Flight NASASpaceflight, May 7, 2024, retrieved May 7, 2024^
  174. NASASpaceflight. Ship 30's Heat Shield Is Being Completely Replaced June 15, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  175. NASASpaceflight. New Ablative Material Spotted on Ship 30 June 22, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  176. NASASpaceflight. Ship 30 Ready for Next Static Fire July 23, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  177. Falcon 9 No Longer Grounded - SLS Core Stage Arrives at KSC NASASpaceflight, July 26, 2024, retrieved July 26, 2024^
  178. NASASpaceflight. Crabs Take Over Starbase July 30, 2024, retrieved March 13, 2025^
  179. NASASpaceflight. Tower Module 6 Stacked, S30 Raptor Swapped August 6, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  180. NASASpaceflight. Ship 30 Completes Testing, B14.1 Ready for More Slaps August 10, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  181. Ryan Weber. Flight 5 and 6 Preparations Underway as SpaceX reveals Raptor 3 NASASpaceFlight.com, August 9, 2024, retrieved August 9, 2024^
  182. NASASpaceflight. Starship Flight 5 Vehicles Ready To Fly? (plus Raptor 3, Slap Testing & More) August 12, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  183. SpaceX Stacks Ship 30 on Booster 12 NASASpaceflight, September 21, 2024, retrieved September 21, 2024^
  184. SpaceX Tests the Stack for the Fifth Flight of Starship - Booster 12 and Ship 30 NASASpaceflight, September 23, 2024, retrieved September 23, 2024^
  185. SpaceX Tests the Stack for the Fifth Flight of Starship - Booster 12 and Ship 30 NASASpaceflight, October 7, 2024, retrieved October 7, 2024^
  186. FTS Installed Before Launch & Potential Catch NASASpaceflight, October 11, 2024, retrieved October 11, 2024^
  187. FTS Installed, and TFR Posted! NASASpaceflight, October 10, 2024, retrieved October 10, 2024^
  188. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Prepared for Upcoming Starship Flight 5 October 8, 2024, retrieved March 3, 2025^
  189. SpaceX Launches Starship Flight 5 (and Catches A Booster) NASASpaceflight, October 13, 2024, retrieved October 13, 2024^
  190. Tiered Environmental Assessment for SpaceX Starship Indian Ocean Landings FAA, March 13, 2024, retrieved March 17, 2024^
  191. Building Starbase MEGA BAY 2 (9 months in 10 minutes) NASASpaceflight, April 11, 2024^
  192. Chris Bergin. Ship 31 going for a wander at the Production Site and heading into the High Bay. retrieved January 4, 2024^
  193. Chris Bergin. With Booster 11 (Flight 4) now at the launch site. Ship 31 (Flight 6) is preparing to roll to Masseys. retrieved May 11, 2024^
  194. Ship 29 Rolled Out for Full Starship Stack Testing NASASpaceflight, May 14, 2024, retrieved May 14, 2024^
  195. Starship Launch Tower Sections Outfitted for Installation NASASpaceflight, July 3, 2024, retrieved July 3, 2024^
  196. Elisar Priel. Compilation time-lapse of the two cryo-proof tests SpaceX teams performed this week on Starship S31 retrieved July 4, 2024^
  197. Starbase Prepares for Tropical Storm Beryl NASASpaceflight, July 7, 2024, retrieved July 7, 2024^
  198. Tower Module 6 Stacked, S30 Raptor Swapped NASASpaceflight, August 6, 2024, retrieved August 6, 2024^
  199. Starliner Leaves the ISS NASASpaceflight, September 6, 2024, retrieved September 6, 2024^
  200. RGV Aerial Photography. Starhopper Moved and Ship Testing Continues! September 8, 2024, retrieved September 8, 2024^
  201. NASASpaceflight. Booster 12 and Ship 30 Roll Out For Testing, Ship 31 Static Fires and Rolls Back September 21, 2024, retrieved March 13, 2025^
  202. SpaceX Rolls Booster 12 to the Launch Site (& Ship 31 Roll) NASASpaceflight, September 20, 2024, retrieved September 20, 2024^
  203. SpaceX Rolls Ship 31 to the Launch Site NASASpaceflight, November 11, 2024, retrieved November 12, 2024^
  204. Ryan Weber. SpaceX prepare for Starship Flight 6, another Booster catch and a daylight Ship splashdown NASASpaceFlight.com, November 18, 2024, retrieved November 18, 2024^
  205. SpaceX Stacks Ship 31 on Booster 13 NASASpaceflight, November 14, 2024, retrieved November 15, 2024^
  206. SpaceX Tests the Stack for the Sixth Flight of Starship - Booster 13 and Ship 31 NASASpaceflight, November 17, 2024, retrieved November 17, 2024^
  207. SpaceX Launches Starship Flight 6 (Booster Catch Aborted) NASASpaceflight, November 19, 2024, retrieved November 19, 2024^
  208. Interstellar Gateway. Starship 31 Debris Return! Project Fallen Star 1 November 27, 2024, retrieved November 27, 2024^
  209. Debris from SpaceX rocket test flight salvaged off Gascoyne Midwest Times, December 10, 2024, retrieved December 11, 2024^
  210. Four more Starships, the last of V1 retrieved November 25, 2023^
  211. Starship's Seventh Flight Test SpaceX, retrieved March 7, 2024^
  212. NASASpaceflight. Booster 15 Ready For Testing Ahead of Starship Flight 8 February 8, 2025, retrieved February 9, 2025^
  213. NASASpaceflight. "I Promise You Starbase Did Not Explode" February 12, 2025, retrieved February 13, 2025^
  214. RGV Aerial Photography. Booster 11 Back On The Pad! April 6, 2024, retrieved April 7, 2024^
  215. Starship 2.0: New Hardware Spotted NASASpaceflight, July 29, 2024, retrieved August 4, 2024^
  216. Jack Beyer. The combined nosecone and payload bay for Ship 33 July 25, 2024, retrieved July 25, 2024^
  217. Starship Version 2 Aft Section Rolled Out for Stacking NASASpaceflight, August 25, 2024, retrieved August 25, 2024^
  218. SpaceX's Next-Gen Starship Rolls Out NASASpaceflight, October 28, 2024, retrieved October 29, 2024^
  219. New Starship Block 2 Cryo Proof Tested NASASpaceflight, October 31, 2024, retrieved October 31, 2024^
  220. Ship 33 Test Campaign Begins NASASpaceflight, December 14, 2024, retrieved December 14, 2024^
  221. Alejandro Alacantarilla Romera. While Ship 33 still uses Raptor 2 engines, a lot of the internal transfer lines and manifolds have changed with the new ship design which means extra testing is required December 15, 2024, retrieved December 15, 2024^
  222. SpaceX's Starship Prepares for Flight 7: Testing & Expansion at Starbase NASASpaceflight, December 16, 2024, retrieved December 16, 2024^
  223. It's Christmas Time At Starbase NASASpaceflight, December 18, 2024, retrieved December 18, 2024^
  224. Ryan Weber. FAA gives Flight 7 the Go Ahead, SpaceX to complete final steps ahead of launch NASASpaceFlight.com, December 19, 2024, retrieved December 19, 2024^
  225. NASASpaceflight. Final Preparations For Starship Flight 7 January 8, 2025, retrieved January 9, 2025^
  226. Stephen Clark. A taller, heavier, smarter version of SpaceX's Starship is almost ready to fly Ars Technica, January 9, 2025, retrieved January 9, 2025^
  227. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Stacks Ship 33 on Booster 14 + New Glenn Goes Vertical! January 9, 2025, retrieved January 10, 2025^
  228. Stephen Clark. Rocket Report: China launches refueling demo; DoD's big appetite for hypersonics Ars Technica, January 10, 2025, retrieved January 10, 2025^
  229. NASASpaceflight. Starship Wet Dress Rehearsal ft. The Flame Trench January 9, 2025, retrieved January 10, 2025^
  230. NASASpaceflight. TESTING COMPLETE! Starship Tested & Destacked Before Flight 7 January 11, 2025, retrieved January 12, 2025^
  231. NASASpaceflight. Starship's Big Day: Flight 7 Countdown and New Tech Unveiled January 13, 2025, retrieved January 14, 2025^
  232. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Launches Starship Flight 7 and Attempts Another Booster Catch January 16, 2025, retrieved January 16, 2025^
  233. Starship 34 nose cone rolled into the high bay today September 19, 2024, retrieved September 19, 2024^
  234. Chris Bergin. Ship 34 (Flight 8), currently two sections tall September 23, 2024, retrieved September 23, 2024^
  235. The Ship 34 nosecone and payload section October 8, 2024, retrieved October 8, 2024^
  236. Elisar Priel. Starship S34 (flight 8) rolling out to Masseys. January 15, 2025, retrieved January 15, 2025^
  237. NASASpaceflight. The Starbase That Never Sleeps January 19, 2025, retrieved January 20, 2025^
  238. NASASpaceflight. Booster Catch, Ship Failure & The Path to Starship Flight 8. Starbase Update January 20, 2025, retrieved January 21, 2025^
  239. NASASpaceflight. New Chopsticks Soon on Starbase Tower 2? January 23, 2025, retrieved January 24, 2025^
  240. NASASpaceflight. Starship Flight 8 Testing Begins With A 33 Engine Static Fire February 10, 2025, retrieved February 11, 2025^
  241. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Performs Static Fire with Ship 34 for Starship Flight 8 February 11, 2025, retrieved February 12, 2025^
  242. NASASpaceflight. How Many Engineers Does it Take to Replace a Stop Sign? February 15, 2025, retrieved February 16, 2025^
  243. Starship Flight 8: Starlink Sim installation into Ship 34 now taking place. Twitter, March 1, 2025, retrieved March 1, 2025^
  244. Starship Flight 8: Ship 34 heading to pad A! Twitter, March 2, 2025, retrieved March 2, 2025^
  245. NASASpaceflight. The Stacking of Ship 34 and Booster 15 - Countdown to Launch March 2, 2025, retrieved March 2, 2025^
  246. Jackie Wattles. SpaceX calls off attempt to launch Starship's 8th test flight CNN, March 3, 2025, retrieved March 4, 2025^
  247. Starship Flight 8: Ship 34 destack. Twitter, March 4, 2025, retrieved March 4, 2025^
  248. NASASpaceflight. Stack Aborted! Starship Loses Part During Stacking - Countdown to Launch March 5, 2025, retrieved March 5, 2025^
  249. Starship's Eighth Flight Test SpaceX, February 24, 2025, retrieved March 6, 2025^
  250. Booster 14 Spin Prime Test Sparks Curiosity at Starbase NASASpaceflight, December 9, 2024, retrieved December 10, 2024^
  251. NASASpaceflight. Pad B's Major Milestones: Chopsticks, Tank Farm, and Flame Trench Developments February 3, 2025, retrieved February 4, 2025^
  252. NASASpaceflight. The One that Came Back - Booster 15 Returns as Pad B Shapes Up March 13, 2025, retrieved March 14, 2025^
  253. Starship Flight 9: Ship 35 is undergoing its second cryo, closely watched by Booster 16, at SpaceX's Masseys test site. Twitter, March 12, 2025, retrieved March 12, 2025^
  254. Ryan Weber. SpaceX press on with pre-launch testing while working Ship issue mitigation NASASpaceFlight.com, March 13, 2025, retrieved March 13, 2025^
  255. NASASpaceflight. Testing of New Ships Forges Ahead at Starbase March 16, 2025, retrieved March 17, 2025^
  256. NASASpaceflight. "Big Flash! And Then A Continuing Bit Of Flames!" May 3, 2025, retrieved May 4, 2025^
  257. SpaceX Performs Static Fire of Ship 35 in Preparation for Starship Flight 9 retrieved April 30, 2025^
  258. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX is Testing Ship 35 in Preparation for Starship Flight 9 April 30, 2025, retrieved May 1, 2025^
  259. The Starship preparing for our ninth flight test completed a single engine static fire demonstrating an in-space burn Twitter, May 1, 2025, retrieved May 1, 2025^
  260. NASASpaceflight. SCRUB: SpaceX Performs A Second Static Fire of Ship 35 May 1, 2025, retrieved May 2, 2025^
  261. Ryan Weber. As Ship 35 Static Fires, SpaceX has a Fleet of Vehicles Getting Ready for Flight NASASpaceFlight.com, May 3, 2025, retrieved May 5, 2025^
  262. Just over a week after its last trip, Starship S35 made the trip back to Masseys from Mega Bay 2, for some bonus static fire testing, before it get the go ahead to proceed to the launch site for Flight 9, potentially later this month. Twitter, May 10, 2025, retrieved May 10, 2025^
  263. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Reattempts the Static Fire of Ship 35 May 10, 2025, retrieved May 11, 2025^
  264. NASASpaceflight. DOUBLE HEADER: Flight 9 Ship Tested as Pad B Launch Mount Lifted May 12, 2025, retrieved May 12, 2025^
  265. Adrian Beil. And here we go. Booster 14-2 on the Pad. Ship 35 back in Mega Bay 2 for final checkouts. This is your Flight 9 Stack, currently targeting May 21. Twitter, May 13, 2025, retrieved May 13, 2025^
  266. NASASpaceflight. Starship 35 Rolls to Masseys for Testing May 21, 2025, retrieved May 21, 2025^
  267. NASASpaceflight. SCRUB: SpaceX Performs Engine Testing of Ship 35 May 22, 2025, retrieved May 22, 2025^
  268. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Performs Engine Testing of Ship 35 May 22, 2025, retrieved May 23, 2025^
  269. NASASpaceflight. "I need to get on a plane to Starbase..." May 24, 2025, retrieved May 24, 2025^
  270. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Rolls Out Booster 14-2 Ahead of Starship Flight 9 May 12, 2025, retrieved May 25, 2025^
  271. NASASpaceflight. Ship 35 Rolls to the Launch Site for Starship Flight 9 May 24, 2025, retrieved May 25, 2025^
  272. NASASpaceflight. Booster is Back, Ship Remains to be Stacked - Countdown to Launch May 25, 2025, retrieved May 26, 2025^
  273. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Starship Flight 9 May 21, 2025, retrieved May 27, 2025^
  274. NASASpaceflight. Despite Flight 8's Failure, SpaceX Races Ahead Towards Mars March 18, 2025, retrieved March 20, 2025^
  275. NASASpaceflight. Starship 36 Rolls to Masseys for Testing Ahead of Starship Flight 10 June 15, 2025, retrieved June 15, 2025^
  276. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Performs A Static Fire of Ship 36 June 16, 2025, retrieved June 16, 2025^
  277. "Preliminary data suggests that a nitrogen COPV in the payload bay failed..." X (formerly Twitter), June 19, 2025, retrieved June 19, 2025^
  278. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Ship 36 RUDs During Testing June 18, 2025, retrieved June 18, 2025^
  279. NASASpaceflight. Goodbye High Bay + Hello Pad B Flame Trench! April 14, 2025, retrieved April 22, 2025^
  280. Elisar Priel. Days after flight 9, SpaceX is already busy preparing for future flights of Starship, with S37 (potentially flight 11) taking an early morning trip to Masseys, as it starts its testing campaign with some cryo testing. Twitter, May 29, 2025, retrieved May 29, 2025^
  281. NASASpaceflight. "Did the Booster just Hit the Stand??" June 7, 2025, retrieved June 7, 2025^
  282. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Rolls Starship 37 for Pre-flight Static Fire to the OLM July 27, 2025, retrieved July 28, 2025^
  283. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Lifts Starship 37 for Pre-flight Static Fire to the OLM July 28, 2025, retrieved July 29, 2025^
  284. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Conducts Starship 37 Testing July 29, 2025, retrieved July 30, 2025^
  285. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Conducts Starship 37 Testing July 31, 2025, retrieved July 31, 2025^
  286. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Conducts Starship 37 Testing July 31, 2025, retrieved August 1, 2025^
  287. NASASpaceflight. Starship 37 Static Fires TWICE —Progressing Fast Towards Launch! August 4, 2025, retrieved August 5, 2025^
  288. NASASpaceflight. "(Ship 37) Static Fire Do-Over?" August 6, 2025, retrieved August 7, 2025^
  289. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Rolls Starship 37 for Pre-flight Testing on the OLM August 11, 2025, retrieved August 11, 2025^
  290. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Conducts Testing of Ship 37 on the OLM August 12, 2025, retrieved August 13, 2025^
  291. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Conducts Testing of Ship 37 on the OLM August 13, 2025, retrieved August 13, 2025^
  292. NASASpaceflight. "It's No Earlier Than the 24th" August 16, 2025, retrieved August 16, 2025^
  293. Starship Flight 10: The First of the Starlink Sims is being loaded into Ship 37 in Mega Bay 2. Twitter, August 23, 2025, retrieved August 23, 2025^
  294. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Rolls and Stacks Starship 37 for Launch August 23, 2025, retrieved August 24, 2025^
  295. NASASpaceflight. SCRUB: SpaceX Starship Flight 10 August 24, 2025, retrieved August 25, 2025^
  296. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Starship Flight 10 - Second Attempt August 24, 2025, retrieved August 26, 2025^
  297. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Starship Flight 10 - Third Attempt August 25, 2025, retrieved August 27, 2025^
  298. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Rolls Starship 38 For Pre-flight Proof Testing at Starbase July 26, 2025, retrieved July 27, 2025^
  299. NASASpaceflight. "Not one, but TWO Starship Static Fires" August 2, 2025, retrieved August 2, 2025^
  300. NASASpaceflight. "Up Next: Ship 38 Static Fire" September 17, 2025, retrieved September 18, 2025^
  301. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Performs Static Fire of Final Block 2 Ship September 17, 2025, retrieved September 18, 2025^
  302. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Performs Static Fire of Final Block 2 Ship - Second Attempt September 19, 2025, retrieved September 19, 2025^
  303. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Performs Static Fire of Final Block 2 Ship - Third Attempt September 19, 2025, retrieved September 22, 2025^
  304. NASASpaceflight. "Starwars... or Starbase?" September 25, 2025, retrieved September 26, 2025^
  305. NASASpaceflight. Full Stack ahead of Starship Flight 11 October 12, 2025, retrieved October 12, 2025^
  306. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Rolls and Stacks Starship 38 for Launch October 10, 2025, retrieved October 11, 2025^
  307. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX Conducts Starship 37 Testing July 31, 2025, retrieved July 31, 2025^
  308. Ryan Weber. The Future of the Starship Program, Block 3 and Mars NASASpaceFlight.com, May 30, 2025, retrieved July 31, 2025^
  309. NASASpaceflight. After Static Fire, Booster 14 Rolls Back for More Launch Preps April 9, 2025, retrieved April 22, 2025^
  310. NASASpaceflight. 🚨 Goodbye High Bay + Hello Pad B Flame Trench! April 14, 2025, retrieved April 22, 2025^
  311. NASASpaceflight. Testing Complete - Starship Launches This Week! August 18, 2025, retrieved August 19, 2025^
  312. NASASpaceflight. "They're really tearing down that launch mount" November 16, 2025, retrieved November 17, 2025^
  313. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX rolls Flight 12 Ship 39 to Masseys February 26, 2026, retrieved February 26, 2026^
  314. NASASpaceflight. Ship 39 survives its first test March 1, 2026, retrieved March 2, 2026^
  315. NASASpaceflight. "The artist formerly known as Ship 39?" March 4, 2026, retrieved March 6, 2026^
  316. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX rolls Flight 12's Booster 19 to Pad 2 March 8, 2026, retrieved March 8, 2026^
  317. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX rolls Ship 39 for engine testing 2026-04-11, retrieved 2026-04-11^
  318. NASASpaceflight. [DOUBLE HEADER] SpaceX Tests Flight 12 Ship and Booster 2026-04-12, retrieved 2026-04-13^
  319. NASASpaceflight. SpaceX attempts Ship 39 Static Fire at Massey's 2026-04-13, retrieved 2026-04-14^
  320. Header Tank tested to failure. Test Tank preps for transport NASASpaceflight, January 26, 2020, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  321. Starship SN2 Test Tank transported from Launch Site NASASpaceflight, March 16, 2020, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  322. Tariq Mali. Boom! SpaceX pops huge Starship SN7 test tank on purpose in pressure test Space.com, June 23, 2020, retrieved January 30, 2021^
  323. Mike Wall. SpaceX pops Starship tank on purpose in explosive pressure test Space.com, September 24, 2020, retrieved February 13, 2021^
  324. Starship Header Tank Pressurization Test NASASpaceflight, January 25, 2020, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  325. Jeff Foust. Second Starship prototype damaged in pressurization test SpaceNews, March 1, 2020, retrieved February 12, 2023^
  326. Mike Wall. SpaceX's latest Starship prototype passes big tank pressure test Space.com, March 10, 2020, retrieved March 10, 2020^
  327. NASASpaceflight. "It Belongs in a Museum (Booster 12)" August 9, 2025, retrieved August 10, 2025^
  328. Michael Baylor. Starship SN7 History nextspaceflight.com, retrieved February 9, 2021^
  329. LabPadre Space. Starship's SN7.1 Pushed To Failure (Time Lapse) September 23, 2020, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  330. 8 bar differential in ullage, 9 bar at base due to propellant head. It's enough. Improvements in work. September 26, 2020^
  331. Eric Ralph. SpaceX's thin-skinned Starship 'test tank' passes first trial Teslarati, January 27, 2021, retrieved January 30, 2021^
  332. Michael Baylor. Starship SN7.2 History nextspaceflight.com, retrieved February 6, 2021^
  333. Mary. Starship SN7.2 is headed back to the production site at SpaceX Boca Chica. March 15, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  334. Starship SN11 Abort Static Fire – SN7.2 Moved to the Production Site NASASpaceflight, March 15, 2021, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  335. Jax. Remembering 2022: What Happened to Starship This Year? Ringwatchers, December 31, 2022, retrieved October 22, 2024^
  336. RGV Aerial Photography. Launch site discussion July 8, 2023, retrieved July 12, 2023^
  337. Starbase Isn't Slowing Down! September 25, 2023, retrieved September 25, 2023^
  338. Massive Plumbing Installed for the OLM Deluge Plate July 12, 2023, retrieved July 12, 2023^
  339. New Launch Tower is Rising Quickly NASASpaceflight, July 20, 2024, retrieved July 20, 2024^
  340. RGV Aerial Photography. Major Progress and Deliveries for Tower 2! July 25, 2024, retrieved July 26, 2024^
  341. RGV Aerial Photography. Ship 30 Static Fire Test Completed! July 27, 2024, retrieved July 27, 2024^
  342. Chopsticks Perform Catch Simulation NASASpaceflight, September 8, 2024, retrieved September 8, 2024^
  343. Flight 6 Preps Underway NASASpaceflight, October 21, 2024, retrieved October 22, 2024^
  344. NASASpaceflight. And Then There Were Two (Towers with Chopsticks) January 30, 2025, retrieved January 31, 2025^
  345. Evelyn Aravelo. SpaceX conducted a pressure test on a Starship dome tank at Boca Chica today Tesmaian, January 10, 2020, retrieved February 1, 2021^
  346. Starship Test Tank 2 Destructive Cryo Test NASASpaceflight, January 29, 2020, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  347. Eric Ralph. SpaceX just blew up a Starship tank on purpose and Elon Musk says the results are in January 12, 2020, retrieved May 6, 2023^
  348. Elon Musk. Starship 9m test tank made 7.5 bar at room temp! Small leak at a weld double. Will be repaired & retested at cryo. https://t.co/Bz3lrwkYRU January 27, 2020, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  349. Chris Bergin – NSF. Farewell Test Tank 2, and we thank you. https://t.co/Je69rLmr28 https://t.co/AUpIb7kv24 January 28, 2020, retrieved August 22, 2021^
  350. Elon Musk. 8.5 bar^
  351. GSE Test Tank Undergoes Cryogenic Proof Testing August 26, 2021, retrieved January 19, 2022^
  352. GSE-4 Tank Fails During Testing January 18, 2022, retrieved January 20, 2022^
  353. Why SpaceX Could Be Forced To Abandon Starship Payloads Until 2024! CSI Starbase, March 22, 2023, retrieved December 13, 2023^
  354. The SpaceX Military Starship Is Real! How's This Going To End? What about it!?, December 12, 2023, retrieved December 12, 2023^