Starship Flight 10 Launch: When to Watch on August 24
Upcoming SpaceX Starship Launch: Everything You Need to Know
SpaceX is preparing for the highly anticipated launch of its 10th Starship test flight, which is scheduled to take place on Sunday evening, August 24, at 7:30 p.m. EDT (2300 GMT). The launch could happen any time within a one-hour window starting at that time, with local timing around 6:30 p.m. CDT. Fans can watch the live stream on this page, with coverage provided by SpaceX, and follow real-time updates on the mission.
This upcoming flight marks SpaceX’s fourth Starship launch in 2025. The company hopes it will be the first successful attempt this year after three previous tests ended in failure or explosion. The flight also comes after a ground explosion in June that destroyed the upper stage. The company aims to use this mission to refine technological capabilities critical for future missions, including NASA’s Artemis lunar landings and crewed missions to Mars.
Launch Timing and Backup Plans
The launch is set for 7:30 p.m. EDT, with the possibility of flying any time between then and 8:30 p.m. Typically, SpaceX may opt to delay due to weather or technical difficulties. The company has backup windows available on August 25 and August 26. Local authorities have announced road closures during launch hours to ensure safety, but potential delays could extend beyond these dates if technical issues arise.
Can You Watch Live?
Yes, live streams are available. SpaceX will broadcast the launch via its X account starting at 7 p.m. EDT. Additionally, SpaceX’s official launch page and the redirection to their YouTube channel will carry the webcast. Space.com will also simulcast the webcast, and a longer coverage with commentary can be viewed through NASASpaceflight’s YouTube livestream, beginning at 4:30 p.m. EDT.
What to Expect from the Flight
The mission is expected to last just over an hour, focusing on tests of Starship’s reentry and landing capabilities. Unlike previous flights, this test won’t include catching the booster with “chopsticks.” Instead, the Super Heavy booster will attempt a splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico after an extreme reentry profile. The upper stage will deploy eight Starlink satellites and attempt a controlled reentry, with plans to demonstrate engine relights and heat shield stress tests. The final reentry and splashdown are scheduled for approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes after liftoff.
What if the Launch is Delayed?
If weather or technical issues prevent the launch on August 24, SpaceX has reserve dates on August 25 and 26. Local authorities have already scheduled road closures during these windows to facilitate the launch. Nonetheless, delays beyond the backup dates may occur if further technical problems or shipment delays arise.