Third SpaceX Starship test flight could demo real-time propellant transfer

SpaceX is preparing for the third test flight and a new piece of information reveals that this launch could demonstrate a new orbital capability with NASA.

The next Starship will prepare to perform a “Propellant transfer demonstration”, told a NASA spokesperson to CNBC on Tuesday.

This could be a major capability for this Starship as SpaceX designed the vehicle to carry a massive payload to orbit. This feature may have been in development but the plan is subject to change based on chances of achieving the orbit.

The demonstration is part of the “Tipping Point Solicitation” appointed by NASA back in 2020. SpaceX is one of the key partners in the demonstration of cryogenic fluid management technology. The three other partners for such demonstrations are Eta Space, Lockheed Martin, and ULA.

NASA says this type of fluid management is essential for establishing a sustainable presence for manned missions on the Moon and Mars.

SpaceX has been awarded $53.2 million to demonstrate the transfer of 10 metric tons of cryogenic propellant specifically liquid oxygen, between tanks on a Starship vehicle.

The goal of this demonstration is to advance cryogenic fluid transfer and fill-level gauging technology through technology risk assessment, design and prototype testing, and in-orbit demonstration.

However, to demonstrate this technology, the Starship must achieve orbit.

SpaceX integrated Starship flight lifting off from Starbase in Texas, Image – SpaceX

Past Tests:

Starship is an integrated launch vehicle that comprises a first-stage launch booster and a second-stage Starship.

In April this year, SpaceX launched its first Starship launch flight. The rocket liftoff successfully from the launch pad but blasted in mid-air due to Rapid Unscheduled Disassembly (RUD).

Last month, SpaceX attempted the second integrated Starship flight test. This time, the company not only achieved takeoff but also performed hot-staging. Unfortunately, the first and second stages once again caused RUD failure.

One of the key outcomes of the second test is that the Starship fired its engine and kept on flying for several minutes before it experienced disassembly.

Third Flight:

Following the second flight test, SpaceX CEO, Elon Musk said that Starship Flight 3 hardware should be ready to fly in 3 to 4 weeks. Musk also shared a picture of the next four Starships prototypes.

Source – X/Twitter

NASA and SpaceX are working together to demonstrate the propellent transfer capability during the upcoming integrated flight test. Meanwhile, there’s no confirmation about the test time at the moment.

According to the past launch preparations, the FAA may take some time to investigate the third integrated flight test preparations. Unlike the past two tests, the third Starship test could get early launch approval.