Space exploration technology company SpaceX’s interplanetary spacecraft prototype SN9 has been standing on the launch pad, and it is expected to conduct a test of about 12.5 kilometers in the first two weeks of the new year.
The SN9 starship has been integrated on the launch pad last week. Compared with the SN8, the SN9 will undergo a streamlined pre-launch test procedure.
The first test will involve filling the spacecraft with nitrogen, usually in two steps. First, the spacecraft will be filled with gaseous nitrogen, and then loaded with ultra-cold liquid nitrogen for low-temperature testing.
Compared with the previous SN8, the goal of SN9 is to achieve a “soft landing.” In the near future, SN9 will conduct a pressure test first, followed by a static ignition test on the three installed engines. If all goes well, SN9 may conduct a flight test of 12.5 kilometers from the ground as early as the first or second week of January.
The test is expected to be carried out early next week, and preparations for the test have already begun this Monday morning.
If all tests are carried out as planned, SN9 will then prepare for static ignition tests of three Raptor engines. Compared with the SN8, it has been streamlined. The SN8 has undergone several static ignition tests before launch.
After all, tests are completed, SpaceX will determine the launch date and notify the local aviation and maritime traffic management departments. This will also depend on weather conditions and preparedness.
According to the best-case test process, SN9 may be launched within the first two weeks of January. On the basis of the SN8 test, the chances of SN9 landing successfully increased greatly.
The pace of production in SpaceX’s Boca Chica plant is currently fast. The starship prototype SN10 has occupied the former position of SN9 in Gaowan, and the nose cone has been assembled. SN11 is about to complete the stacking operation of the hull in the middle of the factory.
Last Sunday, the stern of the SN11 was moved to a suitable location and will be docked with the rest in the next few days. In addition, SN12 is in manufacturing. Many of the super-heavy rocket prototype BN1 have been produced and are preparing for stacking operations.
According to Elon Musk (Elon Musk) previously stated that the BN1 jump test will be conducted within “a few months.” To meet frequent testing, the company is now delivering a large number of Raptor engines. At the test center in McGregor, Texas, the factory speed of the Raptor engine was impressive.
