SpaceX launch LIVE: Starship V3 to attempt launch tonight after 'hydraulic pin' issue

SpaceX’s Starship V3, the tallest and most powerful rocket ever built, will attempt its launch on May 22 after a hydraulic pin issue delayed Thursday’s attempt. Elon Musk confirmed a fix is being prepared, with a 90-minute launch window opening at 5:30pm Central Time, though he downplayed risks by noting multiple V3 ships are in production." "article": "SpaceX’s Starship V3, designed for rapid Starlink satellite deployments and NASA’s lunar missions, will attempt its first launch on May 22 after Thursday’s cancellation. The delay occurred due to a hydraulic pin on a launch tower arm failing to retract as expected. Elon Musk stated on X that if the issue is resolved, the launch could proceed within the 90-minute window opening at 5:30pm Central Time (11:30pm BST). Musk previously acknowledged potential setbacks, emphasizing that a failure would not significantly disrupt future test flights, as multiple Starship V3 prototypes are in production. The rocket remains uncrewed, with upgrades aimed at improving efficiency for upcoming missions. SpaceX’s Boca Chica facility in Texas will oversee the attempt, with live coverage expected. The company has framed this as a critical step toward operationalizing Starship, despite past challenges. Musk’s comments suggest confidence in the production pipeline, though no official confirmation of tonight’s success has been made.