SPACEX STARSHIP TAKES OFF, DESTRUCTS ON RETURN

Why in the news?

SpaceX’s Starship rocket test flight in Texas marks a milestone, reaching peak altitudes before encountering communication loss and destruction.

source:presswing

About the Launch and Progress:

  • SpaceX’s Starship rocket embarked on its third test flight from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, signalling a significant step in space exploration.
  • The rocket, designed for lunar and interplanetary missions, made notable progress by completing most of its intended trajectory during the test flight.
  • It reached impressive peak altitudes of 145 miles (234 km), showcasing its potential for future missions to the Moon and beyond.
What is the Starship project?

●   SpaceX’s Starship project aims to create a reusable transportation system for crew and cargo to Earth orbit, Moon, Mars, and beyond.

●   Starship can carry up to 150 metric tonnes reusable and 250 metric tonnes expendable.

●   Starship Super Heavy is powered by 33 Raptor engines fueled by liquid methane and liquid oxygen.

About Indian efforts in commercialization of space

●   Skyroot develops Vikram S series and Dhawan engines.

●   Draft Spacecom Policy 2020 encourages private space involvement.

●   IN-SPACE facilitates private sector participation.

●   NSIL promotes commercial space products.

●   ISpA advances the space industry.

●   ACL markets ISRO’s space services.