Elon Musk's Starship Super Heavy to launch on 6th flight today with Trump watching

This latest flight aims to build on the successes of previous tests while introducing new objectives to enhance the rocket's capabilities.

In Short

• A key goal is to replicate the successful mid-air catch
• SpaceX plans to reignite one of Starship's six Raptor engines while in space
• There are indications that President-elect Donald Trump may attend the launch

SpaceX is gearing up for the sixth test flight of its massive Starship rocket system.

The behemoth will launch in the wee hours of November 20 with a potential high-profile spectator in attendance. The 30-minute launch window opens at 3:30 am IST from SpaceX's Starbase facility in South Texas.

This latest flight aims to build on the successes of previous tests while introducing new objectives to enhance the rocket's capabilities.

A key goal is to replicate the successful mid-air catch of the Super Heavy booster, which was achieved during the fifth test flight last month. SpaceX will attempt to recover the booster using the launch tower's "chopstick" arms approximately seven minutes after liftoff.

IGNITION IN SPACE

In a new addition to the flight profile, SpaceX plans to reignite one of Starship's six Raptor engines while in space - a critical capability for future missions beyond Earth orbit.

The upper stage will also conduct heat shield experiments and test new reentry manoeuvres before splashing down in the Indian Ocean about 65 minutes after launch.

SpaceX has made several upgrades to the Starship system for this flight, including enhancements to propulsion systems and structural reinforcements. The company aims to demonstrate a monthly launch cadence as it works towards making the vehicle fully reusable.

DONALD TRUMP TO ATTEND

Adding intrigue to the event, there are indications that President-elect Donald Trump may attend the launch in person.

The Federal Aviation Administration has issued temporary flight restrictions over Brownsville, Texas, typical of preparations for a high-profile visit. Trump's close relationship with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has been well-documented, with Musk frequently advising the president-elect.

NASA is closely watching Starship's development, as the agency has contracted SpaceX to use a version of the vehicle as the lunar lander for its Artemis missions.

Successful testing of Starship is crucial for NASA's plans to return humans to the Moon.

HOW TO WATCH STARSHIP LAUNCH?

India Today Science will bring you all the coverage of the upcoming launch. You can also see the launch on other social media platforms and on You Tube.