Elon Musk has a bold plan for Starship's 6th flight after catching it mid-air

This mission aims to build on the successes of previous flights while introducing new objectives that will enhance the rocket's capabilities.

In Short

• Primary goal of this test flight is to replicate the successful catch maneuver
• This involves returning the booster to the launch site
• The sixth flight will test a crucial in-space relight of engine

Elon Musk's SpaceX is preparing for the sixth test flight of its Starship rocket from its Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas.

This mission aims to build on the successes of previous flights while introducing new objectives that will enhance the rocket's capabilities for future lunar and interplanetary missions.

The test flight is scheduled for November 19, 2024, at 3:30 am IST.

WHAT IS SPACEX PLANNING TO DO?

The primary goal of this test flight is to replicate the successful catch manoeuvre of the Super Heavy booster, which was achieved during the fifth test flight.

This involves returning the booster to the launch site for recovery using SpaceX's innovative "Mechazilla" gantry arms. Achieving this milestone would demonstrate significant advancements in reusability, a key aspect of SpaceX's vision for sustainable space travel.

In addition to the catch attempt, the sixth flight will test a crucial in-space relight of one of the Raptor engines on the Starship upper stage. This capability is essential for future orbital missions, allowing for controlled deorbit burns.

The mission will also assess new heat shield materials and evaluate the vehicle's manoeuvrability during reentry over the Indian Ocean.

BIG UPGRADES IN STORE

SpaceX plans to implement several upgrades for this flight, including enhancements to propulsion systems and structural reinforcements.

The Starship will intentionally fly at a higher angle of attack during descent, providing valuable data on flap control and thermal protection systems. Notably, certain sections of the heat shield will be modified or removed to facilitate testing for future catch hardware.

The upcoming test flight is not just a repeat of previous missions; it aims to expand the operational envelope of both the Starship and Super Heavy systems.

By gathering critical flight data, SpaceX hopes to refine its designs and procedures in preparation for ambitious goals such as Nasa's Artemis program, which seeks to return humans to the Moon by 2026.

As excitement builds around this mission, it represents another step forward in SpaceX's journey toward making space travel more accessible and sustainable.