Archive · 21 Jul 2026
SpaceX Delays Starship Flight 13
SpaceX has delayed the 13th flight test of its Starship rocket to July 23, 2024.
The previous attempt on July 16 was aborted because some of the rocket's engines didn't ignite properly.
This is important because SpaceX wants to use Starship to launch Starlink satellites.
The upcoming test will carry 20 Starlink satellites, but they won't stay in orbit; they will burn up in the atmosphere.
A successful test would be a big step towards using Starship for regular satellite launches and eventually for deep-space missions.
SpaceX has been testing Starship rapidly, even after some failures, to improve the rocket.
SpaceX delayed Starship Flight 13 to July 23, 2024, after an abort on July 16 due to engine ignition issues.
The upcoming test will carry 20 Starlink satellites to demonstrate satellite deployment and laser communication links.
The satellites will not remain in orbit and will burn up in Earth's atmosphere.
A successful test is crucial for SpaceX to validate Starship's systems for future Starlink missions and deep-space travel.
SpaceX aims to begin launching Starlink satellites with Starship by the end of the year.
- Who
- SpaceX
- What
- Delayed Starship Flight 13 launch
- When
- July 23, 2024
- Where
- Texas
- Why
- To test Starship's ability to carry and deploy satellites
- Launch Date
- July 23, 2024
- Previous Attempt
- July 16, 2024 (aborted)
- Number of Satellites
- 20 Starlink satellites
- Launch Site
- Texas
- Satellite Fate
- Burn up in Earth's atmosphere
- Starship's Purpose
- Fully reusable launch system for large payloads and deep-space missions
