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SpaceX Targets October 13 for Starship Flight 5 Launch at Boca Chica, 7:00 a.m. CT, First Booster Catch Attempt

Oct 12, 2024, 04:50 PM

SpaceX is set to launch its fifth Starship flight test on October 13, 2024, from Boca Chica, Texas, with a launch window opening at 7:00 a.m. Central Time (1200 UTC). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted SpaceX the necessary launch license, allowing the company to attempt a historic catch of the Super Heavy booster using its mechanical arms, referred to as 'Mechazilla' or 'Chopsticks.' This mission marks the first time SpaceX will try to capture the booster mid-air upon its return, foregoing traditional landing legs to save weight. The launch follows weeks of regulatory discussions and represents a significant step toward rapid reusability of the Starship system.