SpaceX Starship V3 launch today. How to watch flight 12 live
SpaceX’s Starship V3, the world’s largest rocket, is set for its first launch on May 22 from Starbase, Texas, after delays and a scrubbed attempt the prior day due to a hydraulic pin issue. This 12th flight test aims to demonstrate orbital refueling capabilities critical for future missions to the moon and Mars, including NASA’s Artemis program.
SpaceX’s Starship V3, the next-generation version of the world’s largest rocket, is scheduled for its first launch on May 22, 2026, from Starbase in South Texas. The 90-minute launch window opens at 6:30 p.m. ET, following a scrubbed attempt on May 21 due to a hydraulic pin issue that prevented the tower arm from retracting. This marks the 12th flight test since April 2023, with SpaceX targeting a May 19 launch before two 24-hour delays. Standing over 400 feet tall, Starship V3 is designed for full reusability and orbital refueling, enabling long-duration missions to the moon and Mars. The rocket is a cornerstone of NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the lunar surface. SpaceX has been refining the prototype since its last test flight in October 2025, emphasizing upgrades for reliability and performance. The launch will be livestreamed on SpaceX’s website and X TV app, beginning 45 minutes before liftoff, with updates also available on the company’s X social media accounts. As with prior developmental tests, the schedule remains subject to change. SpaceX has emphasized that Starship’s success is vital for supporting both commercial and government space initiatives, including future crewed missions beyond Earth’s orbit. Elon Musk, SpaceX’s CEO, previously noted on X that the hydraulic issue was resolved, paving the way for the May 22 attempt. The company’s Starbase facility near the U.S.-Mexico border serves as the primary launch site for Starship tests. If successful, this flight could mark a significant milestone in SpaceX’s efforts to make Starship operational for deep-space exploration. The rocket’s ability to refuel in orbit is a key innovation, allowing for extended missions to destinations like the moon and Mars. NASA has selected Starship as the lunar lander for its Artemis III mission, scheduled for a crewed moon landing in the coming years. SpaceX’s progress with Starship will also support its Starlink satellite constellation and other commercial spaceflight ambitions.
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