Starbase Update: Orbital Launch Mount Gets Its Plate | Is Booster Testing Coming Soon?

SpaceX's Solution to Combat the Roar of 33 Raptors

This section provides an update on SpaceX's progress in combating the noise generated by the 33 Raptors on Starship.

Installation of Steel Plate and Manifolds at Launch Site

• A steel plate and its manifolds have been installed at the launch site.

• Modifications have been made to Starship's hot staging.

• Booster testing is expected to happen soon.

Quick Disconnect Plumbing and Booster Modifications

This section discusses the modifications made to the quick disconnect plumbing and booster staging.

Quick Disconnect Plumbing Raised for Future Ships

• The quick disconnect plumbing has been lifted on top of the QD arm, now positioned higher.

• The point of connection between the booster and ship has been raised by about 2 meters.

• Stabilizer pins have been moved to guide the booster during descent.

Concrete Pouring at Orbital Launch Site

This section highlights concrete pouring activities at the orbital launch site.

Extensive Concrete Pouring for Repairs

• Over 200 concrete trucks have been used for repairs at the orbital launch pad.

• The scale of infrastructure becomes evident after considering the amount of concrete poured.

• Continuous operation with trucks moving in and out supports a 24/7 operation.

Installation of Deluge System Components

This section focuses on installing components of the Deluge system.

Water Line Installation from New Water Tanks

• Massive Deluge pipes are being placed in previously dug-out trenches.

• Steel plate installation involved careful placement using cranes through engine holes.

• Manifold installation begins after proper positioning of the steel plate.

Booster Testing and Work at Suborbital Launch Site

This section discusses upcoming booster testing and work at the suborbital launch site.

Preparation for Booster Testing

• Manifolds for water flow are being installed, indicating progress towards booster testing.

• Pad and Deluge testing expected before booster testing.

• Inspections and work ongoing at the suborbital launch site.

Progress on Mega Bay Construction

This section provides updates on the construction of Mega Bay.

New Mega Bay Installation Progress

• The next level of the new Mega Bay is being installed, with all four corners in place.

• Another segment of Mega Bay has been moved to the construction site.

• Preparations and assembly continue at the old Mega Bay (High Bay 2).

Test Campaigns for Ships 28 and 29

This section mentions upcoming test campaigns for ships 28 and 29.

Awaiting Test Campaigns

• Ships 28 and 29 are awaiting their respective test campaigns.

• Testing may commence once the orbital launch site is occupied.

Building Expansion and Test Site Updates

This section provides updates on the building expansion at Starbase and the activities at the test site.

Building Expansion

• The building expansion is currently in progress, with the initial frame being constructed. It is expected to be a massive structure.

• The high base for scale can be seen in comparison to the cranes below it.

Test Site Updates

• The fourth level of the mega bay was started during this week, with one of the first corners being erected.

• Work was observed on the thermal protection system (TPS) of upcoming ships, with yellow markings on TPS tiles and some missing half tiles.

• At Massey's test site, there were initially few test tanks and cranes. However, later in the week, more activity was observed.

• Traffic cones were placed leading to the former gun range, indicating preparations for a vehicle rollout.

• Counterweights were placed on self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs), suggesting a heavy payload will be loaded onto them.

• Booster 10 rolled out to Massey's test site for cryogenic proof and pressure testing before engine installation.

Insights from Elon Musk's Shared Image

This section analyzes an image shared by Elon Musk that provides insights into a Starship.

• The image shows the underside of a Starship, revealing interesting details.

• Ship 25 can be identified in the corners of the image, along with infrastructure resembling a test stand leading to it.

• A hydraulic power unit (HPU) is visible in close proximity to Ship 25. This HPU had failed during booster severins' first integrated flight.

• The Raptor vacuum engines have been bolted to suborbital pad B for testing purposes. Bracing keeps their nozzles rigid during firing to prevent deformation.

• The bracing is removed before flight, ensuring the engines perform optimally.

Speculating on the Next Booster Flight

This section discusses the possibility of Booster 10 being the next one to fly and invites speculation from viewers.

• The question arises whether Booster 10 will be the next one to fly or if SpaceX will skip a few steps and move to a booster lower down in the family tree.

• Viewers are encouraged to share their thoughts and speculations in the comments section.

Thank you for watching!