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SpaceX’s Ship 39 looks cool as it undergoes a cryogenic system inspection on Sunday, March 8. Photo credit: SpaceX
The images captured by SpaceX’s Ship 39 during its cryogenic operations tests look super cool. This is the first campaign for the next generation of Starship V3.
what is it?
Testing of Ship 39 took place over several days at Starbase Macy’s outpost in Boca Chica, Texas. Also known as Massey’s, it is SpaceX’s primary location for cryogenic testing of all of the company’s spacecraft and boosters. “Ship 39 cryogenic operation complete, first test of next-generation Starship V3,” SpaceX wrote on its X feed. “Over several days, engineers tested the vehicle’s redesigned propellant system and its structural strength, including squeeze tests that simulated the capture forces of future ships.”
Why is it special?
The test is an important step on the road to Flight 12, which will mark Spaceship 39’s first liftoff. Through this series of tests, Ship 39 validated its redesigned propellant system and other upgrades for the next generation of starships.