SpaceX Plans Key NASA Demonstration For Next Starship Launch

SpaceX's next test of its Starship rocket is expected to include 'a propellant transfer demonstration.' CNBC reports: SpaceX last month launched its second Starship flight, a test which saw the company make progress in development of the monster rocket yet fall short of completing the full mission. The propellant transfer demonstration would require that the rocket reach orbit as one of the demo's goals. A successful attempt would push Starship beyond its benchmarks reached thus far. 'NASA and SpaceX are reviewing options for the demonstration to take place during an integrated flight test of Starship and the Super Heavy rocket. However, no final decisions on timing have been made,' NASA spokesperson Jimi Russell said in a statement to CNBC.

The 'propellant transfer demonstration' falls under a NASA 'Tipping Point' contract that the agency awarded SpaceX in 2020 for $53.2 million. As part of the contract, NASA wants SpaceX to develop and test 'Cryogenic Fluid Management' (CFM) technology, which the agency notes is essential for future missions to the moon and Mars. Under the NASA contract, SpaceX's first demo will involve transferring 10 metric tons of liquid oxygen between tanks within the Starship rocket. While Starship won't be rendezvousing with another tanker rocket for this demo, NASA considers the test progress in maturing the tech. 'The goal is to advance cryogenic fluid transfer and fill level gauging technology through technology risk assessment, design and prototype testing, and in-orbit demonstration. The demonstration will decrease key risks for large-scale propellant transfer in the lead-up to future human spaceflight missions,' NASA says.

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