Earlier this morning, SpaceX attempted the maiden flight of the Starship launch vehicle, before aborting the launch.
STARBASE, TEXAS – Earlier this morning, SpaceX began the live webcast of the first flight of the Starship Superheavy vehicle, which if successful, will take the throne of the most powerful rocket to ever launch. Teams worked all throughout the previous day and early morning to prepare the launch site and vehicle for flight, providing updates as T-0 approached.
There were a number of issues that came up nearing the T-10 minute mark, most notably a tank pressurization problem caused by a frozen valve. There were also concerns of a possible range violation by a vessel at sea, however the valve problem was the more pressing concern.
Shortly after Musk’s tweet was posted, commentators during today’s webcast confirmed the scrub of the launch, and instead carried on with the countdown as a wet-dress rehearsal, terminating the count at T-40 seconds.
The team will need a minimum of 48 hours to prepare for another attempt, hinting at a possible launch on Wednesday. Stay tuned for further updates from MaxQ regarding this highly anticipated launch.
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