SpaceX has canceled its latest Starship/Super Heavy test flight, originally scheduled for March 3rd, due to unresolved issues with the ultra-heavy booster during the countdown. The planned launch from the Starbase Test Site in Boca Chica, Texas, faced a delay at the T-40 second mark after the countdown was interrupted by an unspecified problem with the Starship Upper Stage. Following the scrub, SpaceX announced that the team is considering the next best opportunity for flight. The March 3rd mission would have marked the first attempt since the failed Flight 7 on January 16th, where contact with the Starship was lost shortly after liftoff.
In response to prior issues, SpaceX has made modifications to prevent similar setbacks in future flights. The company also plans to expand Starship production and launch operations in Florida, with the construction of a new facility called Gigabay at Kennedy Space Center, expected to be completed by the end of 2026. SpaceX aims to launch its first Starship from Florida’s launch complex 39A in late 2025, contingent upon the completion of an environmental review. Additionally, they are pursuing a second launch facility at Cape Canaveral. The environmental assessment for the site is ongoing, with a draft impact statement anticipated for public comment this spring.
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