SpaceX performed the first cryogenic pressure-proof test on Starship 39 on 28th February. Since this is the first new-generation V3 Starship, SpaceX has been extra cautious in conducting prelaunch tests.
As of this writing, Ship 39 (V3 SN1) has gone through a series of three cryo-proof tests. These pressure and ultra-low temperature tests provide vital data for the spaceship’s structural integrity in extreme conditions and propellant loading capacity.
– Advertisement –SpaceX conducts a third cryogenic pressure-proof test on the first Starship V3 (Ship 39) that’s intended for the Flight 12 launch and landing test. Credit: NasaSpaceFlight.com via X.
To accommodate the new V3 Starship testing, SpaceX has made a new test structure. This structure supports the upper-stage Starship spacecraft during testing and for erection (see picture above).
The ship transport stand seamlessly integrates with the new Starship V3 test structure. This new steel truss structure is like a mini launch tower that helps conduct ground testing. This tower also has grab arms that hold Starship during intense testing.
SpaceX performed three consecutive cryogenic pressure-proof tests on Ship 39. However, there has been no static fire test conducted on this Flight 12 Starship V3 prototype.
After three cryo tests, Starship 39 is parked at Massey’s alongside the ship-testing tower structure. Besides testing the ship itself, SpaceX is also validating the launch pad (Pad 2), especially its deluge system (fire mitigation at liftoff). SpaceX also tested the new Chopsticks on the launch tower to prepare them for the Flight 12 launch.
In the coming days, if Starship 39 passes the static fire tests, it will be almost flight-ready. The Pad 2 launch mount is also ready for the 12th Starship flight test from Starbase, Texas.
SpaceX might soon announce a date for the Flight 12 launch, as it has already received environmental approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the test. Stay tuned for updates and live coverage as the event happens.
Video: Starship cryo tests and other Starbase development updates.
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Update:
In addition to the successful cryo tests, SpaceX's test tower also squeezed the V3 Starship 19 to analyze the catch pressure on the body of the ship during landing… pic.twitter.com/SasB1kJNP9
Video: SpaceX confirms that cryoproof tests have been completed on Flight 12 Starship V3 (upper stage).
Ship 39 cryoproof operations complete, the first campaign with a next generation Starship V3. Across several days, engineers tested the vehicle’s redesigned propellant system and its structural strength, including squeeze tests to mimic the forces of future ship catches
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