Elon Musk MOST INSANE SpaceX Update We All Been Waiting For!

Elon Musk MOST INSANE SpaceX Update We All Been Waiting For!

SpaceX, the renowned aerospace company, is currently undertaking significant upgrades at its Starbase facility in Texas. These upgrades encompass not only the launch site but also the supporting infrastructure. One notable development is the potential increase in the size of the Starship full stack, which could see a 20% expansion. The company is fully committed to these upgrades, evident from the continuous and intense activity observed at the orbital launch mount. The piling work at the launch mount has been progressing steadily, with an increasing number of pilings being installed. A recent aerial photograph showcases the impressive progress, displaying a complete ring of pilings underneath the launch mount. To accommodate the construction of the ring, individual hold down clamps and the raptor boost quick disconnect had to be retracted, allowing the cranes to lift in the rebar cage and the Tremie pipe. It is anticipated that more pilings will be added in the center once the current ring is completed. These pilings serve as essential support structures for the water-cooled steel plate system, ensuring it can withstand the immense thrust generated by the 33 Raptor engines during liftoff.
The launch mount itself has also received significant attention. One of the Raptor Boost Quick Disconnects (QDs) was recently reinstalled after being temporarily removed. A comparison between the previous and current versions of the QDs reveals that the new version features an increased diameter in at least one of the gas lines, possibly aimed at improving reliability or speed during Raptor start-up. Additionally, the SpaceX teams have begun dismantling components for thorough inspections. One notable example is the removal of a shielding piece for the main Booster QD, accompanied by the detachment of flexible cryogenic hoses. This meticulous inspection was likely prompted by the blast that dislodged one of the access hatches on the side of the hood during a previous launch. Similarly, the Ship QD arm and its flex hoses were also removed, as there is a reasonable chance that it was affected by the flying chunks of concrete seen near the tower arms. Reinforcing the arm with additional shielding may be considered for future launches.

The progress made by SpaceX within just over a month after the launch is undeniably remarkable. However, it is important to note that the completion of the upgrades will not align with Elon Musk's initial estimate of 6 to 8 weeks. Musk has revised the timeline to approximately two months from now, signaling the commitment to ensuring thorough and efficient preparations. Alongside the upgrades, SpaceX released a Starship Flight Test Recap video, showcasing the extensive work done and announcing that the second flight test will involve Booster 9 and Ship 25. The teams have been diligently addressing repair work, conducting upgrades at the build site, and undertaking testing at Masseys to ensure the readiness of the Starship for future missions.