A Powerful Second Test for the Water Deluge System
Today, SpaceX conducted a successful second test of its newly installed Starship deluge system, a significant step in the company’s rocket launch safety measures. This test, held at the Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas, was more powerful than the previous one, which took place on July 17.
40-Second Water Blast Accompanied by Thunderous Sound
At 2:10 p.m. ET, the test commenced with water shooting upwards from beneath the orbital launch mount (OLM) for approximately 40 seconds, accompanied by a voluminous blast of sound. Notably, no booster was present during this test, indicating the focus on assessing the water deluge system’s performance.
Toward Full-Pressure Demonstration
While SpaceX anticipated this test to be a full-pressure demonstration, official confirmation is still pending. The company has not disclosed the exact volume of water propelled through the system, but it aims to discharge up to 350,000 gallons of water during Starship launches.
Functioning Deluge System to Protect the Pad
The water deluge system’s purpose is to work alongside engine ignition during Starship launches, absorbing the tremendous power generated by the rocket’s 33 Raptor engines. The next plausible step for SpaceX will be to test the deluge system during a static fire test of the Starship Super Heavy booster.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Approval
A fully operational water deluge system is critical for SpaceX’s efforts to protect the launch pad during Starship launches and secure another launch license from the FAA. As part of its safety measures, SpaceX has also installed a metal diverter beneath the OLM to prevent any future damage. This infrastructure was absent during Starship’s inaugural launch on April 20, which resulted in significant damage to the OLM and the dispersion of dust and debris into the surrounding areas. Subsequently, the FAA is facing a lawsuit for authorizing the launch, and Starship remains grounded pending an investigation.
Continued Efforts Toward the Second Launch
After its maiden flight, Starship encountered a fatal tumble, prompting a self-destruct command. However, SpaceX is committed to making improvements for the second launch. Thousands of tweaks are being implemented on the 394-foot Starship, making it the most powerful rocket ever built, and the company is determined to ensure its success.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Wccftech
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