SpaceX readies Starship V3 at Texas starbase for May launch
SpaceX just rolled out Starship V3, now officially the tallest rocket in the world at 408 feet. Built at its Texas Starbase, this massive spacecraft is a big step toward exploring deep space.
The first launch is planned for mid-May 2026, from a new pad, pending final FAA approval.
Starship V3 gains 10% more thrust
Starship V3 packs upgraded Raptor 3 engines delivering 18 million pounds of thrust, 10% more than before.
It features new hot-staging technology, redesigned grid fins for smoother recovery, and orbital refueling so it can handle longer missions like NASA's Artemis moon program.
Its upcoming test flight will check out the 12th Starship test flight, with a controlled splashdown in the Indian Ocean.
SpaceX has already fired up all 33 engines and loaded more than 11 million pounds of fuel; now it's adding safety systems while waiting for the green light to launch.