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SpaceX says Flight 12 of the newest version of its Starship/Super Heavy from Boca Chica is scheduled for Tuesday, with a launch window of 5:30 to 7 p.m.
According to a notice to mariners from the SpaceX Launch Operations Engineer, backup dates for the launch are Wednesday and Thursday, with Thursday “under review.” Additional backup dates are May 26-28, according to the notice. The launch window remains 5:30 to 7 p.m. for each backup date.
“We will begin clearing the range 12 hours before the launch and our goal would be to have the (Brownsville Ship Channel) cleared of traffic by (three hours before launch),” according to the notice.
Flight 12 will be the first launch using the upgraded Version 3 of Starship/Super Heavy. SpaceX’s last launch from Boca Chica took place on Oct. 13.
Starbase, the company’s legally incorporated company town, now issues beach and highway closure announcements in advance of launch or testing activities, formerly Cameron County’s job, though the county still has authority over imposing weekend closures, if any.
According to SpaceX: “As required for these activities, SpaceX will establish a safety zone perimeter in coordination with local law enforcement that will include temporary closures of Highway 4 and Boca Chica Beach. … Please keep in mind that target dates may change based on a number of factors.”
Members of the public can text “BEACH” TO (866) 513-3475 for updates on beach closures and road access delays. Details on the test flight can be found at spacex.com, where live mission coverage will also begin approximately 30 minutes before launch.