SCIENCE

United States schedules Starship Flight 13 launch

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SpaceX has set the thirteenth test flight of its Starship launch system for Sunday, July 12, 2026, from its Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas. A 90-minute launch window will open at 5:45 p.m. Central Time (22:45 UTC) from Orbital Launch Pad 2. The decision follows a full-duration static fire test of Super Heavy Booster 20 on July 10, 2026, during which all 33 upgraded Raptor 3 engines fired for 25 seconds while the vehicle remained secured. Engineers reported performance within expected parameters. Flight 13 will be the second mission of the “Version 3” Starship design and the first to carry 20 Starlink V3 satellites, including six with external monitoring cameras.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Earlier Starship flights test prior architectures
Version 3 design introduces structural, hardware upgrades
July 10, 2026 Booster 20 static fire
July 10, 2026 all 33 Raptor engines ignite
July 12, 2026 Flight 13 launch window opens
July 12, 2026 Starship to carry Starlink V3
After launch engineers assess V3 performance
Subsequent missions expand Starlink V3 deployment

Why This Matters to You

This launch is a big step for SpaceX's Starship project. It's the first to carry Starlink V3 satellites, which could improve your internet speed and coverage. Keep an eye on your internet provider's offerings - you might see changes soon.

The Bottom Line

SpaceX continues to push the boundaries of space technology. If successful, this launch could pave the way for more reliable, faster internet across the globe. Worth forwarding if you know someone who's frustrated with their internet speed.