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The prototype of the SpaceX spacecraft will move away from Earth shortly, reports CNET. Next step: Raptor engine.
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SpaceX spacecraft prototype nears launch
SpaceX has increased production of next-generation stainless steel spacecraft prototypes. The last one, called SN4, passed a cryogenic pressure test last weekend. Previous prototypes like the SN3 in early April crumpled under the stress of tests requiring it to be pumped full of liquid nitrogen.
SpaceX Founder and CEO Elon Musk tweeted Sunday night about the latest progress. In a short video, the SN4 looked super icy lounging on the test bench at SpaceX’s Starship facility in Texas. The space transportation company and aerospace manufacturer based in Hawthorne, California, are conducting development and testing at sites spanning the entire country, as well as their launch sites.
SN4 passed the cryogenic test! 😅 pic.twitter.com/EJakThZRGF
– Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 27, 2020
Musk has world historical plans for Starship, such as a trip around the moon and even a mission to Mars. But first, the spacecraft needs to pass a series of more down-to-earth tests.
The next challenge is to install a Raptor engine in the space vehicle, to send it in a short “jump”. According to CNET, this could resemble the test jump for another prototype that happened in 2019.
Spaceship bound for orbital flight via Raptor engine
At the moment, SpaceX’s main objective is to launch Starship in orbital flight, from where it can enter interplanetary space. Additionally, SpaceX has already begun assembly of the next Starship test: SN5. Conventional delays are expected, but SpaceX appears determined to maintain momentum toward a rapid prototyping phase.
In the past, Musk has said that roughly 1,000 spacecraft will be needed over a 20-year period to build a sustainable city on Mars. Considering the current phase of SpaceX spacecraft development, and the company’s recent contract with NASA to help realize the latter’s Lunar Gateway project, SpaceX still has a long way to go before Starship reaches its maximum potential.
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