SpaceX canceled the eighth test flight of the Starship rocket 40 seconds before launch due to detected anomalies in both elements of the system. As reported by IZ with reference to SpaceX, the launch was supposed to take place from the Starbase site in Texas, but engineers decided to stop preparations after detecting low pressure in the system. Elon Musk explained that the decision was made due to a large number of uncertainties and shortcomings in the operation of the equipment.
According to SpaceX representatives, it will take at least 24 hours for a new launch, but a specific date has not yet been announced. Elon Musk noted that it is better to thoroughly check all systems than to risk a repeat of the incident with the previous Starship flight, when communication with the ship was lost eight minutes after launch. Engineers are already working to eliminate the problems and check both stages of the rocket.
This flight was to be the first since the failed launch on January 16, when SpaceX lost contact with Starship. After that incident, the company changed the design of the rocket and added new safety systems. In particular, ventilation systems and a nitrogen purge system were installed to reduce the risk of fire. A new launch date is expected to be announced in the near future.
Recall, we previously wrote about where and when to watch the launch of Starship Flight 8 from SpaceX.