SpaceX is preparing for the 13th test flight of its Starship launch vehicle, with the company targeting a 90-minute window opening at 6:45 p.m. EDT (2245 GMT) on July 16, 2026. According to SpaceX, the mission utilizes the upgraded “Version 3” (V3) configuration, marking the second flight for this more powerful design following its debut in May 2026.
Flight 13 Mission Logistics and Launch Procedures
SpaceX has confirmed that Booster 20 and Ship 40 were stacked at Starbase’s pad 2 in Texas ahead of the scheduled liftoff. According to the company, the process involved rolling the Super Heavy booster to the pad on July 15, with the upper stage Ship 40 following overnight. These vehicles recently completed static fire tests of their Raptor 3 engines prior to final prelaunch checkouts.
The mission window is scheduled for 90 minutes. SpaceX states that operations will include a livestream beginning approximately 30 minutes before the scheduled launch time. Beach and road closures surrounding the Starbase facility are set to begin at 1:30 p.m. EDT (1730 GMT) to clear the area of non-essential personnel.
Did you know?
SpaceX’s V3 Starship configuration represents a bigger, more powerful upgrade from previous Starship designs.
Evolution of the Starship V3 Launch Profile
Flight 13 follows a rapid testing cadence for the V3 vehicle, which launched for the first time on May 22, 2026. According to reporting by Josh Dinner for Space.com, the Flight 13 profile is similar to that of Flight 12.

Frequently Asked Questions
When is the launch window for Starship Flight 13?
The 90-minute launch window opens at 6:45 p.m. EDT (2245 GMT) on July 16, 2026.
What is the V3 configuration of Starship?
The V3 configuration is an upgraded, more powerful version of the Starship launch vehicle. Flight 13 marks the second test flight for this specific version.
How can I watch the Starship Flight 13 launch?
SpaceX provides a livestream on its official mission page and X profile. Coverage typically begins 30 minutes prior to the opening of the launch window.
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