SpaceX Prepares Upgraded Starship for Seventh Test Flight

The new prototype features significant design improvements as SpaceX targets a January launch date.

The upcoming Starship Flight 7 will debut the second-generation 'Block 2' prototype, featuring redesigned forward flaps, an updated heat shield, and larger propellant tanks.
SpaceX has rolled out the Starship upper stage and Super Heavy booster to the launch pad for separate static fire tests ahead of the integrated flight.
Flight 6 saw the successful splashdown of Starship's upper stage in the Indian Ocean, allowing SpaceX to recover and analyze hardware for further improvements.
Elon Musk highlighted the new design’s lighter build, improved manufacturability, and enhanced resistance to high heating during reentry.
If Flight 7's ocean landing succeeds, SpaceX plans to attempt a tower catch for the upper stage in future tests, moving closer to full reusability.