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SpaceX successfully performed a full-duration and full-thrust static fire test of its upgraded Super Heavy Version 3 (V3) booster, igniting all 33 Raptor 3 engines simultaneously on the new Pad 2 at its Starbase facility in Boca Chica.

The company announced the milestone via X (social media), posting video footage showing the booster secured to the test stand as massive flames erupted, accompanied by large plumes of steam and dust from the flame diverter and water deluge system. CEO Elon Musk echoed the post with fiery emojis, highlighting the test’s success.

🔥🔥🔥 Starship Static Fire 🔥🔥🔥 https://t.co/WFSPA1lts6

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 7, 2026

This marks a key pre-flight verification for Booster 19 (B19), the first Super Heavy V3 prototype. The test validated engine performance, propellant flow, structural integrity, and ground systems under maximum conditions, generating roughly 9,240 tons (over 90 meganewtons) of thrust—the most powerful static fire in rocket history. Reports indicate the burn lasted around 14 seconds, consistent with a planned full-duration test for this hardware.

The V3 booster incorporates design upgrades over previous versions, including more powerful Raptor 3 engines and other enhancements for improved reliability and performance. This test on the new Pad 2 represents an important step following earlier incremental firings and addresses lessons from prior development efforts.

SpaceX is preparing for Starship Flight 12, the maiden flight of the integrated Starship V3 vehicle stack (Ship 39 atop Booster 19). With this static fire completed, the program advances toward stacking, integrated testing, and regulatory approvals, with a launch window potentially opening in the coming weeks.

No anomalies were reported in today’s test, and the hardware is expected to undergo post-fire inspections before proceeding. Starbase operations continue under Federal Aviation Administration oversight as SpaceX pushes toward more frequent and ambitious Starship test flights.

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