SpaceX Tests New Launch Site Hardware

On August 24 and 25, SpaceX resumed its testing program after some modifications at the orbital launch site.

After getting its center engines installed, Booster 7 rolled out to the launch pad on August 23 and was lifted onto the orbital launch mount (OLM) by the chopsticks. It was noted that, although all 33 engines have been installed, many engine covers are still missing. It is therefore unclear if booster 7 will need to return to the production facility one more time for the installation of engine covers or if this work can be done at the launch site.

On the following day, SpaceX conducted a short test with ship 24 which is currently situated on the suborbital pad B. This test culminated in engine chill with the water suppression system under pad B being activated. However, no spin prime test was conducted, and it is unknown whether this test procedure was planned or if it was an abort. Following depressurization, an ignitor test was conducted as well. This test cannot be observed visually.

Forward to 3:14 pm to see NSF commentators explaining upgrades on the OLM!

For testing on August 25, residents received an overpressure notice, meaning that SpaceX could have planned a static fire test either on Booster 7 or on Ship 24. However, testing time was limited as there was a presentation with T-Mobile scheduled at 7 pm at the rocket garden. Prior to the testing, the chopsticks were lifted above booster 7. During this procedure, the chopsticks damaged scaffolding on the orbital launch and integration tower (OLIT) which likely resulted in a delay.

Booster 7 conducted two spin prime tests with 3 Raptor engines, likely the same ones. During this test the engine's turbopumps are brought up to speed but the engines don't get ignited. The testing procedure at the orbital launch site is still very new and constantly evolving as new parts are added or upgraded. After the spin prime test on July 12 which resulted in an explosion, SpaceX conducted major repair works on the orbital launch mount, during which they also added new pipes. These pipes now collect the engine chill vent (likely only from the 20 outer engines) and direct it to the ground and then further behind the launch tower. This new vent location, together with the pipes frosting up, were now identified as test indicators. Furthermore, another vent appearing under the OLM covers was spotted by NSF moderators and identified as a new test indicator at around 30 seconds prior to T-0.

Over 3 hours after booster testing, SpaceX conducted another spin prime test on Ship 24. This concluded the testing for this week without a much-anticipated static fire. However, it can be expected that this campaign will be continued in the coming week with road closure announcements and MSIB (Marine Safety Information Bulletin) being posted.

According to Elon Musk, SpaceX still hopes to perform the first orbital flight test this year.