SpaceX successfully completed the first combat tests of its new Super Heavy rocket engine model, which will be capable of delivering a spacecraft even to the Moon

SpaceX successfully completed static fire tests of the Super Heavy V3 engines

At the second launch pad of the Starbase spaceport in Texas, Space X conducted its first flawless static fire tests of 10 first‑stage engines for the Starship V3 rocket complex. This event marked an important step toward the planned first flight of the rocket in April, which is considered the most powerful project of its kind.

What’s new?
Item Description Pad Tested on the new launch pad Starbase 2, doubling launch frequency capabilities from this base. Raptor 3 engines In a 10‑engine configuration, the new high‑performance Raptor 3 engines were tested for the first time. Super Heavy booster Showcased the new version of the booster, but at publication it was still not fully assembled (23 additional engines needed).

Additional information
* Two days ago, successful static fire tests of the second stage – the Starship V3 vehicle – were completed. This provides grounds to believe that the complex is ready for flight in early April.

* NASA is actively pushing Space X: Starship V3 is essential for returning Americans to the Moon and potential Mars missions. With new engines, it can deliver up to 100 t of cargo to low Earth orbit, almost three times more than the previous version (35 t).

* Space X announced on X (Twitter) on March 18 that the “activation campaign” for Super Heavy V3 and Starbase 2 was completed. The post mentioned that cryogenic fuel and oxidizer were loaded onto the rocket for the first time.

Current status
* Only 10 of the required 33 engines are installed on the booster so far, but the company does not see this as an obstacle.

* Tests were halted earlier than planned due to ground equipment issues, not problems with the rocket itself. Space X is confident that everything is under control.

Thus, Space X makes a significant step forward toward its first Starship V3 flight in April, confirming the readiness of the new complex and its potential for future interplanetary missions.