SpaceX Gears Up for Starship’s 10th Test Flight
On Wednesday, SpaceX revealed a bold redesign for the Super Heavy rocket’s aerodynamic control surfaces. A new grid fin design is 50 % larger than the prior version, boosting the booster’s ability to maneuver at sharper angles of attack during descent.
Key Features of the Redesigned Grid Fin
- Three fins instead of four – the booster will now be fitted with three large, high‑strength grid fins.
- 50 % larger surface area – the new fins are significantly bigger, giving the rocket more control authority.
- Higher strength and stiffness – the redesign incorporates stronger materials to withstand the stresses of landing.
- Improved landing performance – the three‑fin arrangement allows the Super Heavy booster to descend at higher angles of attack, facilitating a safer touchdown at the launch tower.
Projected Launch Timeline
The 10th test flight of Starship is slated for later this month. It is expected to be the first mission to showcase the upgraded grid fins in real flight conditions.
Visual Highlights
SpaceX shared a photo of an engineer standing on one of the new grid fins, underscoring the practical size and strength enhancements. The image demonstrates the fins’ role as aerodynamic control surfaces that adjust the rocket’s trajectory during flight.
What to Expect
- The 233‑foot (71 m) Super Heavy booster will feature the three‑fin configuration.
- The larger, stronger fins will help the booster orbit‑jettison the Starship payload while maintaining control for a precise return to the launch pad.
- The improved design is expected to set a new benchmark for reusable rocket descent and landing mechanics.
SpaceX’s unveiling of this grid fin upgrade signals a significant step forward in the company’s pursuit of fully reusable launch vehicles and rapid cadence of Starship flights.
SpaceX Fins Forge Path to Lunar Landing
SpaceX has redesigned the booster fins to enhance both safety and performance during the Starship’s return.
Precision Placement Lowers Heat Exposure
- The new fin position shifts them further down the booster.
- By moving them closer to the engine jets during stage separation, the fins receive less heat.
- Reduced thermal load cuts the risk of structural damage.
Catch‑Maneuver Gives Ground‑Secure Booster
During landing, a towering mast deploys massive mechanical arms. The arms secure the booster just above the ground, a spectacular catch‑maneuver that marks the Starship’s return.
SpaceX Targets Late‑Month Launch from Boca Chica
SpaceX plans to launch the Starship from its Starbase site in Boca Chica, Texas, before the end of this month.
NASA Eyes Starship for Artemis Missions
NASA is closely monitoring the launch, as it hopes to use the Starship—alongside its own SLS rocket—for crew and cargo missions to the moon. NASA has already inked a deal with SpaceX to use a modified Starship to land two astronauts on the lunar surface in the Artemis III mission, currently set for 2027. Whether that target remains on schedule remains to be seen.
