SpaceX completed a critical engine test at its Starbase facility, igniting all six Raptor engines on the Starship upper stage for a full minute. The static fire marks a key milestone ahead of the vehicle's 13th integrated flight test, which is expected to include the Super Heavy booster.
The test, which generated a plume of exhaust and steam, was captured on video by the company. All six engines fired simultaneously at full thrust for the planned duration, validating propulsion systems and ground support equipment. No major anomalies were reported.
An official launch window has not been announced, but such tests typically precede a flight by several weeks. The previous launch, Flight 12, occurred in December 2024, and SpaceX has been working to increase flight cadence at Starbase.
The 13th flight will continue testing of Starship's orbital capabilities, including in-space engine reignition and heat shield performance. SpaceX aims to demonstrate the rapid reusability of both stages, a core requirement for NASA's Human Landing System contract and Mars ambitions.
This launch is part of a broader push to operationalize Starship for cargo and crew missions. However, the timeline remains contingent on regulatory approvals from the FAA, which has been reviewing environmental and safety assessments for increased launch frequency.