SpaceX is preparing for the seventh flight test of its ambitious Starship program, which is scheduled to launch on Thursday, January 16 at 4:00 pm CT (10:00 pm GMT) with a launch window of 60 minutes.
According to the space giant, the test promises to deliver significant progress in the development of next-generation spacecraft, marking a major step towards reusable space technology.
How, when and where to watch the liftoff livestream
For those wishing to watch the launch live, SpaceX will be streaming the event via its official webcast, starting approximately 35 minutes before liftoff. The webcast can be accessed through the SpaceX website as well as the @SpaceX handle on X.
For viewers on mobile devices, the new X TV app will also provide access to live broadcasts. Given the dynamic nature of developmental testing, it is advisable to keep an eye on SpaceX’s official channels for any updates or changes to the schedule.
all about testing
The highly anticipated launch will see several upgrades to the Starship upper stage aimed at improving performance and reusability. One of the key features of this flight is the first payload deployment test, where Starship will deploy 10 Starlink simulators into space, simulating the deployment of the next generation Starlink satellites. The spacecraft will also conduct several re-entry experiments, including testing alternative heat shield tiles and refinement techniques for shipboard recovery and booster reusability.
The test will also showcase Starship’s advanced avionics, which have been redesigned to handle increasingly complex missions. Notable upgrades include a more powerful flight computer, integrated Starlink and backup RF communications functions, as well as several new sensors and high-definition cameras designed to provide real-time data during flight. With Starlink onboard, the vehicle will be able to stream video and telemetry at over 120Mbps, giving engineers invaluable insight into the vehicle’s performance.
Apart from the Starship test, the Super Heavy booster will be reused for the first time in this mission. The Super Heavy booster will attempt to return and catch up, with the possibility of splashing down in the Gulf of Mexico if conditions are not favorable for landing, the company said.
