SCIENCE

United States: SpaceX targets July 16 Starship launch

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South Texas – SpaceX is preparing for the thirteenth integrated test flight of its Starship launch system, targeting liftoff as early as Thursday, July 16, 2026, from its Starbase facility on the Gulf Coast. The company has scheduled a 90-minute launch window opening at 5:45 p.m. Central Time (22:45 UTC), using Super Heavy Booster 20 and Ship 40 for the mission. Designated Flight 13, the test will mark a critical milestone for the aerospace company as it attempts, for the first time, to deploy functioning next-generation Starlink satellites directly from the Starship upper stage, advancing SpaceX’s plan to use the fully reusable system for large-scale satellite deployment. United States – The launch campaign follows the Federal Aviation Administration’s closure on July 13, 2026, of its mishap investigation into Starship Flight 12, which ended with the loss of the Super Heavy booster during its return sequence. Investigators and SpaceX engineers identified several anomalies in the previous flight, including a 90-degree deviation in the booster’s planned flip maneuver caused by slight differences in the Starship upper stage engine startup timing, as well as relight issues affecting five of the booster’s 33 Raptor engines during the boostback burn. In response, SpaceX has implemented hardware and software modifications, including a more robust engine startup sequence for Flight 13, intended to ensure more reliable control and performance during stage separation and the booster’s return operations.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Earlier in 2026 Flight 12 suffers booster loss
Earlier in 2026 Investigators review Flight 12 anomalies
Earlier in 2026 SpaceX develops corrective engine software
July 13, 2026 FAA closes Flight 12 mishap probe
July 13, 2026 Regulatory clearance granted for Flight 13
July 16, 2026 Launch window opens at Starbase
July 16, 2026 Flight 13 to deploy Starlink satellites
July 16, 2026 Modified startup sequence to ensure flip

Why This Matters to You

SpaceX's Starship launch affects us all. It's about advancing satellite technology, which can improve internet access and weather forecasting. If you're a tech enthusiast, you might want to watch the launch live on July 16th. It's a peek into the future of space travel and technology.

The Bottom Line

SpaceX is making strides in space technology, but it's not without hiccups. They've learned from Flight 12's mishap and made changes for Flight 13. It's a reminder that progress often comes with bumps in the road. Worth forwarding if you know someone fascinated by space exploration.