SpaceX Resumes Testing of Starship Mega Rocket, New Flight Approaching

• February 6, 2026

SpaceX has recommenced testing of its Starship super heavy-lift rocket, signaling progress toward a new flight following previous challenges. The company is working on the spacecraft and booster combination designed for deep space missions, which has undergone several iterations since its initial test flights.

Last year’s version of the Starship, known as Block 2, experienced multiple failures during flight attempts. These setbacks prompted SpaceX to develop an updated third generation of both the booster and the spacecraft. Testing has been focused on validating this revamped design to ensure greater reliability and performance for upcoming missions.

Recent Testing Developments

The initial ground tests of the revised booster in late 2025 ended prematurely due to an explosion, causing delays in the transition to flight demonstrations. However, subsequent assessments of another booster iteration succeeded in meeting key milestones. This successful test has brought the program closer to achieving a new launch, marking a crucial step forward from the difficulties encountered with prior versions.

While SpaceX has not disclosed detailed technical specifications or a specific timeline for the next flight, the resumption of successfully completed booster tests is an encouraging indicator of renewed momentum. The Starship system is central to SpaceX’s long-term ambitions in space exploration, aiming to enable missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

As testing continues, industry observers remain attentive to how these advancements will impact the rocket’s readiness and overall program trajectory. The next flight of the Starship super heavy-lift vehicle is anticipated to demonstrate the enhancements that have emerged from the iterative development process following the challenges of past flights.

SpaceX has restarted tests on its Starship mega rocket, bringing a new flight mission closer after recent setbacks with earlier versions.