SpaceX Targets Jan 11 2025 For Starship Flight Test 7; NASA High-Tech Gulfstream To Capture Re-Entry

SpaceX is reportedly targeting no earlier than January 11, 2025, for its highly anticipated 7th Starship Flight Test, according to new documents set to the FAA by NASA.

This mission, part of the ongoing development of SpaceX’s next-generation launch system, will feature close collaboration with NASA, which is contributing its expertise and resources to support the flight with the use of its Gulfstream V aircraft which will collect critical imaging data during the ships return to earth.

NASA's Gulfstream V aircraft, N95NA (callsign NASA5), will play a pivotal role in the mission by capturing high-resolution imagery of the Starship vehicle during its re-entry phase.

These observations are crucial for understanding the vehicle's performance under extreme conditions, particularly during peak heating. The imaging data will inform future spacecraft designs and contribute to making reusable space vehicles safer.

NASA has requested an expedited exemption from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct lightless operations for this mission.

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