Elon Musk’s SpaceX is expected to launch its Starship rocket from Boca Chica, Texas, later today
By Alex Wilkins
17 April 2023
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Watch the livestream of SpaceX’s second and latest attempt at launching the Starship rocket.
Elon Musk’s SpaceX is gearing up for its biggest launch yet, with the maiden flight of its Starship rocket. You can watch the launch streamed live above.
Read more:
SpaceX launch cancelled: Why didn't Elon Musk's Starship blast off?
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What time is the launch?
SpaceX is set to send its Starship rocket into near orbit for the first time at 1320 GMT today – that’s 1420 BST in the UK and 0820 CDT in Boca Chica, Texas, where it will lift off.
What is Starship?
The largest and most powerful rocket system ever built. SpaceX says it will eventually ferry astronauts to the moon and Mars, if all goes according to plan. It is 120 metres tall and once in operation will be fully reusable and able to transport up to 100 passengers.
Has Starship launched before?
The rocket has had a long, difficult history of development, such as scrubbed launches and failed landings. One in 2020 saw a smaller, prototype Starship engulfed in flames. This is the first test of both rocket stages together.