SpaceX has unveiled Starship Version 3, the tallest rocket ever built, featuring significant upgrades including more powerful Raptor engines and a new hot-staging system. This iteration will be crucial for testing in-orbit refueling, a necessary capability for lunar missions under NASA's Artemis program. While no official launch date has been set, the rocket could potentially launch soon from SpaceX's Texas Starbase facility.
Background
SpaceX's Starship program is a fully reusable spacecraft and super heavy-lift launch vehicle being developed for missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. It represents a key component of NASA's Artemis program for returning humans to the lunar surface.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- May 12, 2026 at 07:00 PM
- Score
- 8.0 / 10