SpaceX conducts a static fire for Starship’s seventh flight The seventh launch is reportedly targeted for January 2024 Super Heavy booster tested with 33 Raptor engines at Starbase Advertisement A static-fire test of the Super Heavy booster for SpaceX's seventh Starship launch was successfully conducted on December 9 at the company's Starbase facility in South Texas. The event involved the ignition of 33 Raptor engines attached to the first-stage booster, marking a significant milestone in preparations for the upcoming mission. Reports indicate that the next Starship test flight is being targeted for January 11, as suggested in an email from NASA to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Static Fire Test Details Footage and images of the static fire were shared by SpaceX on its social media platform, providing insights into the booster's performance during this critical test. Conducted on the launch pad, the test demonstrated the functionality of the Super Heavy booster, which forms the first stage of the Starship rocket system. Overview of the Starship System The Starship rocket system, built from stainless steel, comprises two stages. The first stage, Super Heavy, works in tandem with the upper stage, referred to as Starship or simply Ship. Together, the stacked rocket measures 400 feet tall, making it the largest and most powerful rocket ever constructed. It delivers nearly double the thrust of NASA's Space Launch System, underscoring its capability for missions to the Moon and beyond.