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Road closures Oct 23 to 25 - but it sounds like a simple static fire test (rocket stays on the ground), otherwise they would probably need more paperwork.
Starship (/Super Heavy) testing: Mk1 stacked, 20 km flight this year
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the testing and development of SpaceX's Starship and Super Heavy rocket system, focusing on the progress of prototypes, testing schedules, and potential implications for spaceflight. The scope includes technical details, testing updates, and speculative future applications of the technology.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants describe Starship as a fully reusable two-stage rocket intended to replace Falcon 9/Falcon Heavy, with a payload capacity of 100-150 tonnes to low Earth orbit.
- Others highlight the potential for Starship to enable rapid Earth-to-Earth transportation and crewed missions to Mars.
- Several updates indicate delays in testing schedules due to engine issues and other technical challenges, with specific dates being pushed back multiple times.
- Some participants note the progress on the orbital prototypes, mentioning the completion of structural components and the installation of the Raptor engine on Starhopper.
- There are discussions about the implications of achieving a significantly lower failure rate for the Starship system compared to current rockets.
- Speculation exists regarding the timeline for future tests, including a planned 20 km flight for a full-scale prototype.
- Participants express uncertainty about the safety and reliability of the Starship system, comparing it to modern aircraft.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the ambitious goals of the Starship project and the technical challenges involved. However, there are multiple competing views regarding the timelines for testing and the implications of the technology, and the discussion remains unresolved on several technical aspects.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the evolving nature of testing schedules, dependencies on technical developments, and the speculative nature of future applications and safety assessments.