SpaceX Targets Thursday Launch for Starship's 13th Test Flight After Last-Minute Delay

SpaceX (NASDAQ: SPCX) plans to launch the 13th test flight of its Starship rocket as early as Thursday, following the cancellation of a previous launch attempt just minutes before liftoff due to engine startup issues.

The upcoming mission will focus on achieving a successful launch, ascent, stage separation, boostback burn, and landing burn at a designated offshore location. SpaceX also confirmed that the Starship vehicle will carry Starlink V3 satellites, marking another step in expanding its next-generation satellite internet network.

The latest launch attempt was called off after several engines failed to ignite during the final countdown. The setback followed engine-related issues encountered during Starship's 12th test flight, which prompted an investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

According to SpaceX, engineers have implemented multiple hardware and software upgrades to address the problems identified during the previous mission. The company said the changes are intended to improve the rocket's reliability and increase the likelihood of a successful test flight.

The 13th Starship test will be the first since SpaceX completed its blockbuster initial public offering (IPO) in June. Investor sentiment has remained under pressure after last week's canceled launch, contributing to further declines in the company's share price.

SpaceX stock has continued to trade below its IPO level, reflecting growing concerns over repeated testing delays and technical challenges. Since reaching a post-IPO peak market valuation of approximately $2.64 trillion, the company has lost roughly $1 trillion in market value.

Despite the recent setbacks, Starship remains central to SpaceX's long-term ambitions, including deploying larger Starlink payloads, supporting future lunar missions, and eventually enabling human exploration of Mars. The upcoming test flight will be closely watched by investors, regulators, and the broader aerospace industry as the company seeks to demonstrate meaningful progress in its flagship rocket program.