TLDR
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SpaceX stock dropped 5.58% as FAA approved the next Starship flight test.
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FAA cleared Starship Flight 13 after SpaceX fixed issues from the May mission.
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SpaceX will deploy 20 operational Starlink V3 satellites during Flight 13.
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Starship upgrades target improved booster returns and safer flight operations.
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The mission supports SpaceX’s plans for Starlink growth and lunar exploration.
SpaceX (SPCX) shares dropped 5.58% to $137.19 despite FAA approval for the next Starship mission. The decline followed a strong intraday selloff that pushed the stock near its session lows.SpaceX gained clearance to continue its Starship testing program from Texas.
Space Exploration Technologies Corp., SPCX
FAA Clears Starship Flight 13 After Booster Failure Review
The Federal Aviation Administration completed its review of SpaceX’s Starship booster failure from the May test flight. The approval allows the company to proceed with another launch attempt as early as July 16. The upcoming mission will test several changes made after the previous flight.
The May 22 Starship mission introduced an upgraded version of the rocket system and completed most planned objectives. The Super Heavy booster failed during its return attempt after several engines failed to restart. The booster lost control and crashed into the Gulf of Mexico after its descent sequence failed.
SpaceX identified multiple technical issues linked to the booster failure and updated its hardware and operations. The company adjusted engine systems, alarms, and flight procedures before the next launch. The FAA confirmed that incorrect engine alarm settings contributed to the previous mission failure.
SpaceX Prepares Flight 13 With Starlink V3 Satellite Deployment
SpaceX plans to launch Flight 13 from its Starbase facility in Texas during a 90-minute window. The launch window will open at 6:45 p.m. Eastern Time on July 16. The mission will follow a similar suborbital path used during Flight 12.
The company will deploy 20 operational Starlink V3 satellites during the upcoming flight. SpaceX used simulated payloads during earlier Starship tests. The mission will provide a new test for Starlink’s future satellite deployment capabilities.
The satellites will activate solar arrays and antennas after deployment and conduct brief connection tests. SpaceX will continue testing Starship’s heatshield materials during atmospheric reentry. These tests support the company’s goal of developing a fully reusable launch system.
Starship Program Remains Critical to SpaceX Growth Plans
SpaceX has invested more than $15 billion into Starship development as it targets expanded space operations. The company plans to use Starship for Starlink V3 satellite launches and future lunar missions. NASA selected Starship as part of its Artemis lunar exploration plans.
The Starship program has faced delays as SpaceX works to solve technical challenges. The company continues advancing the vehicle through repeated flight tests and engineering improvements. The next mission could determine the timeline for future orbital Starship operations.
SpaceX expects Starship to support larger satellite deployments and additional commercial missions. The company aims to use the rocket for advanced space infrastructure projects. SPCX shares declined despite regulatory progress and continued development of the Starship platform.
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