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SpaceX launches 13th Starship test flight, deploys 20 Starlink V3 satellites

SpaceX launches 13th Starship test flight, deploys 20 Starlink V3 satellites

After multiple delays including a July 16 engine abort and weather setbacks, Starship’s 13th test flight lofted 20 Starlink V3 satellites in its first operational payload deployment as shares slipped.

Fact Check
Multiple independent and official sources confirm every element of the claim. Space.com's launch-time article confirms Flight 13 targeting July 24, 2026 with a window opening at 6:45 p.m. EDT, deploying Starlink V3 satellites, following the July 16 abort and July 23 weather postponement. Spaceflight Now corroborates the post-ignition abort and the second launch attempt after engine work, and the official SpaceX mission page supports the July 23-24 timeframe. The claim's specific details (date, window time, abort cause, weather scrub, Starlink V3 first deployment) all match the sourced evidence.
Summary

SpaceX launched Starship’s 13th test flight from Starbase in South Texas on July 25 after a July 16 automatic abort tied to engine ignition issues and additional weather-related delays. The mission, which had been postponed three times, sent the Super Heavy booster and Starship on a test flight that included deployment of 20 Starlink V3 satellites about 18 minutes after liftoff, marking the vehicle’s first operational payload deployment. SpaceX said all 20 satellites were successfully released and were intended to deorbit and burn up within about 20 minutes. The flight was the second for Starship V3 and the first since SpaceX’s recent IPO, with investors watching the program for its role in lowering launch costs, expanding Starlink and supporting a NASA moon-related test flight next year. SpaceX shares closed at $115.07 after falling near $111 intraday, and traded at $113.37 after hours, down 1.48%.

Terms & Concepts
  • Starlink V3 satellites: A newer generation of SpaceX internet satellites designed to be larger and more capable than earlier versions.
  • Super Heavy booster: The reusable first-stage rocket that lifts Starship and separates early in flight.
  • Raptor engines: SpaceX rocket engines used on Starship and its Super Heavy booster.