SpaceX is preparing another attempt at the 13th Starship flight test after a launch abort on 16 July caused by booster-engine start failures and a further weather-related postponement. The test is significant because it includes demonstrations needed for Starship’s future orbital and lunar roles, while the programme faces growing pressure to meet NASA Artemis deadlines and reassure investors.

The new 90-minute launch window opens at 17:45 CT on 24 July, with SpaceX citing improved visibility for heatshield imagery during ascent. Two Raptor engines were replaced after the previous abort, but the company apparently did not conduct a full static-fire test afterwards; the planned mission would last just over an hour, deploy 20 Starlink V3 satellites, attempt an in-flight Raptor relight, and end with splashdowns in the Gulf of Mexico and Indian Ocean.