“星舰”第十次试飞 成功与否明日“大考”

Core Viewpoint - The upcoming tenth test flight of SpaceX's Starship is seen as a critical moment for the program, following three previous failed attempts this year, which ended in either the spacecraft disintegrating or the booster exploding [2][6]. Group 1: Test Flight Details - The test flight is scheduled for April 24 at 6:30 PM Central Time, carrying eight simulated satellites and aims to achieve specific objectives, including the controlled splashdown of the booster and the ignition of the spacecraft's engines [3][10]. - This test will not repeat the "chopstick" recovery operation used in previous flights, which involved the booster being captured mid-air by a mechanical arm [5]. Group 2: Criticism and Concerns - The repeated failures of the Starship program have intensified criticism and raised concerns about the reliability of the rocket, with some industry experts doubting its capability to support future missions, including NASA's planned return to the Moon in 2027 [8][9]. - The Mexican government is investigating debris from the Starship's previous test flights, and the UK government is in discussions with the US to ensure the safety of its overseas territories [8]. Group 3: Industry Implications - The Starship rocket, measuring approximately 120 meters in length and designed for reusability, is central to SpaceX's ambitions to transport humans and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, and Mars [10]. - The Trump administration's recent executive order aims to foster a competitive commercial space industry, with SpaceX expected to be a significant beneficiary [10].