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SpaceX schedules Starship’s 13th test flight for July 16, carrying 20 Starlink V3 satellites

SpaceX plans its 13th Starship test flight on July 16, with the spacecraft tasked with deploying 20 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites. Six of the satellites will be equipped with cameras to monitor the heat shield during mission operations, according to the report.

Discovered 2026-07-11T20:51:13.617057-07:00 | 2026-07-11T20:51:13.617057-07:00

Briefing

What Hype is tracking

  • The July 16 attempt advances Starship’s test cadence, using on-flight data collection to reduce uncertainty around heat-shield performance—critical for reusability and routine operations.
  • The mission’s payload (20 Starlink V3 satellites, including six with heat-shield monitoring cameras) ties launch development directly to next-generation broadband deployment plans.
  • Performance outcomes from this flight inform both vehicle iteration and schedule risk for future Starship missions carrying operational payloads.

Reported By

tass.com
Sources Tracked
1
First Seen
2026-07-11T20:51:13.617057-07:00
Latest Update
2026-07-11T20:51:13.617057-07:00
Coverage
Space

Sources

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