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last mo.

SpaceX and Space Coast Push Boundaries with Record Launch Activity and Starship Innovations

SpaceX's Starship prepares for its eighth test flight while the Space Coast anticipates a record-breaking 156 launches in 2025.

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Orange balls of light fly across the sky as debris from the SpaceX Starship that launched Thursday in Texas. The debris was spotted over Turks and Caicos Islands in this screen grab obtained from social media video.

Overview

  • SpaceX's Starship is set for its eighth test flight on Friday, pending FAA approval, with plans to test booster recovery, upper-stage return, and Starlink payload deployment.
  • The Space Coast has already conducted 18 launches in 2025, with projections of up to 156 launches for the year, driven by SpaceX, United Launch Alliance, and Blue Origin.
  • Starship's prior test flight in January ended in an explosion due to propellant leaks and fires, but SpaceX has since implemented design improvements to its propulsion and avionics systems.
  • The FAA's role in regulating commercial launches remains contentious, with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk criticizing perceived regulatory overreach and seeking increased Starship test flights this year.
  • SpaceX continues to lead launch activity on the Space Coast, with 93 launches in 2024 and a significant focus on reusable rocket technology and lunar and Martian exploration.