SpaceX Starship Flight Test 13 takes issue with the 'flight' bit
Engine replacement needed after launchpad abort
SpaceX's 13th Starship flight test ended at the launchpad after four Raptor engines failed to start, triggering an automatic abort moments before liftoff.
Elon Musk's biz ignited the booster's engines at 2245 UTC on July 16, but the automated system aborted the launch. The boss confirmed:
"Some of the engines didn't start, triggering an automatic launch abort… To be confident of a good flight, two Raptors will be removed and replaced. Most probable launch timing is early next week."
The nature of the problem is not clear, nor is whether the vehicle will need to be de-stacked for engine replacement. Although the abort showcased the booster's anomaly-detection capabilities, it is not a great look for a rocket that must launch multiple times in quick succession to meet the requirements of the Artemis IV Moon landing planned for 2028.
Flight Test 13 marks the...
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