SpaceX pushes next Starship launch back to Sept. 28, a 6-day delay for megarocket's 1st orbital flight

Live updates

1. 3d ago

   SpaceX delays Starship launch to Sept 28

   SpaceX has pushed back the next Starship launch to September 28, 2026, a six-day delay. The megarocket's first orbital flight had previously been postponed from its initial schedule. The company is preparing for Flight 15 after Flight 14 successfully deployed 26 Starlink V3 satellites into orbit.

   Why it matters

   The Starship program is a key part of SpaceX's plans for rapid reusability and cost reduction in space launches. The program's progress is closely watched by the space industry and regulatory bodies. SpaceX aims to increase its launch cadence, with plans to reach weekly Starship launches by early 2027.

   What is confirmed

   • SpaceX postponed the first orbital flight of its Starship megarocket by six days to September 28, 2026.
   • Flight 14 successfully deployed 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites into orbit during a mission lasting nearly 10 hours.

   Still unconfirmed

   • SpaceX will attempt to catch Starship on the next flight.

   What to watch next

   • The FAA's response to SpaceX's plans for rapid cadence increase
   • The outcome of Flight 15
   • SpaceX's achievement of weekly Starship launches by early 2027
   Sources used for this update (2)

   1. nextspaceflight.com — Starship - Next Spaceflight
   2. arstechnica.com — SpaceX to attempt Starship catch on next flight, with eye on rapid cadence increase
   confidence 90%
2. 12d ago

   SpaceX Delays Starship Flight 14 Launch to September 28

   SpaceX postponed the first orbital flight of its Starship megarocket by six days to September 28, 2026. Flight 14 successfully deployed 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites into orbit during a mission lasting nearly 10 hours. The flight faced a six-day delay from its initial schedule before lifting off at 8:15 a.m. EDT. Prior reporting indicated the mission ended in a fireball during the deorbit burn and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. SpaceX is now preparing for its next mission, designated Flight 15.

   Why it matters

   Reaching orbit and deploying payloads marks a major technological milestone for SpaceX in developing reusable orbital capabilities. The successful deployment of Starlink V3 satellites keeps the company aligned with timelines to land NASA Artemis astronauts on the moon by 2028. Upcoming tests will push further into recovery operations, including attempts to catch both stages of the megarocket.

   What is confirmed

   • SpaceX launched Starship Flight 14 on September 28, 2026, following a six-day delay.
   • The mission successfully reached orbit and deployed 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites.

   Still unconfirmed

   • SpaceX will attempt the first-ever double Starship rocket catch on the next test launch.

   What to watch next

   • Execution of Flight 15 and any attempts at a double rocket catch
   • Official mishap or success reports regarding the deorbit burn and splashdown
   Sources used for this update (2)

   1. jumpseataerospacenews.com — SpaceX Starship Flight 14 Launch Set for Sept 28
   2. www.space.com — SpaceX will attempt 1st-ever double Starship rocket catch on ...
   confidence 95%
3. 15d ago

   SpaceX Starship Flight 14 Reaches Orbit with Starlink V3 Satellites

   SpaceX launched its 14th Starship flight from Starbase on September 28, 2026. The mission achieved orbit and deployed 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites. This flight followed a six-day delay from the original schedule. While the rocket successfully reached its orbital target and released its payload, previous reports indicated the mission ended in a fireball during a deorbit burn and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. SpaceX is now preparing for Flight 15.

   Why it matters

   Starship is a megarocket designed for orbital missions and satellite deployment. These flights test the vehicle's ability to reach orbit and execute controlled re-entry. Successful deployment of V3 satellites expands SpaceX's orbital infrastructure.

   What is confirmed

   • SpaceX launched its 14th Starship flight from Starbase.
   • Starship Flight 14 reached orbit on September 28, 2026.
   • The mission deployed 26 Starlink V3 satellites.

   What to watch next

   • The scheduled date for Starship Flight 15
   • Confirmation of the vehicle's status after the Pacific Ocean splashdown
   Sources used for this update (2)

   1. www.wionews.com — SpaceX launches 14th Starship flight, aims for first orbit ...
   2. keeptrack.space — Next Starship Launch 2026, Flight 15 Date and Flight Log ...
   confidence 100%
4. 21d ago

   SpaceX delays Starship launch to Sept. 28

   SpaceX has pushed back the launch of its megarocket Starship's first orbital flight to September 28, a 6-day delay. The rocket successfully reached orbit and deployed 26 Starlink V3 satellites on its previous launch date, but the mission was terminated early out of caution. The flight ended in a fireball after a deorbit burn and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean.

   Why it matters

   The Starship launch is significant as it marks a crucial step in SpaceX's development of its next-generation rocket. The mission's primary goal was to reach orbit and deliver advanced Starlink satellites. SpaceX is working to establish Starship as a key player in its satellite internet constellation and future space exploration plans.

   What is confirmed

   • SpaceX launched Starship into orbit on Monday, September 28, 2026, successfully deploying 26 Starlink V3 satellites.
   • The rocket performed a deorbit burn and splashed down in the Pacific Ocean north of Hawaii three hours after liftoff from Texas.
   • The Starlink 17-54 mission included the 1,500th Starlink satellite launched so far in 2026.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The first Starship launch from Florida may be just a few months away.

   What to watch next

   • The next Starship launch
   • Progress on Starship launches from Florida
   Sources used for this update (9)

   1. www.spacelaunchschedule.com — SpaceX Launch Schedule: Live Updates & Mission Details
   2. spaceflightnow.com — SpaceX launches its first Falcon 9 rocket since Nasdaq debut
   3. spacexnow.com — Upcoming - SpaceXNow
   4. ir.spacex.com — SpaceX - Stock Information
   5. www.space.com — SpaceX | Space
   6. en.wikipedia.org — SpaceX - Wikipedia
   7. spacexnow.com — SpaceX Launch Tracker - Next Launch, Schedule and Alerts ...
   8. article.wn.com — 'Things are going super well at 39A': SpaceX gearing up to ...
   9. www.space.com — Relive Starship's 1st-ever orbital flight with these epic ...
   confidence 90%
5. 27d ago

   SpaceX Starship reaches orbit for first time before early termination

   SpaceX launched Starship into orbit on Monday, September 28, 2026, successfully deploying 26 Starlink V3 satellites. Flight controllers terminated the mission early out of an abundance of caution, preventing the spacecraft from completing six planned laps around Earth. The rocket performed a deorbit burn and splashed down in the Pacific Ocean north of Hawaii three hours after liftoff from Texas. Although the flight ended in a fireball, the mission met its primary goal of reaching orbit and delivering the most advanced Starlink satellites to date.

   Why it matters

   Previous test flights lasted an hour or less and only skimmed space. Starship must demonstrate reliable orbital flight to prove it can support NASA's Artemis moon program.

   What is confirmed

   • Starship launched into orbit for the first time on Monday, September 28, 2026.
   • The mission deployed 26 Starlink V3 satellites.
   • The spacecraft splashed down in the Pacific Ocean north of Hawaii three hours after launch.
   • Flight controllers ended the mission early instead of completing six planned laps around Earth.

   What to watch next

   • NASA assessment of Starship's readiness for the Artemis moon program
   • Analysis of the cause behind the engine shutdown
   Sources used for this update (4)

   1. www.space.com — Launches & Spacecraft Coverage | Space
   2. www.whec.com — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches into orbit for the first time but flight ends early - WHEC.com
   3. www.starship-tracker.space — Starship Watch — Launch Tracker
   4. spacexfantracker.com — SpaceX Launch Tracker • Mission Control
   confidence 100%
6. 29d ago

   SpaceX Starship reaches orbit for first time on Flight 14

   SpaceX successfully launched Starship into orbit for the first time on Monday, September 28, 2026. The mission deployed 26 Starlink V3 satellites before the team cut the flight short to ensure safety. After an engine shutdown during the mission, the spacecraft performed a deorbit burn and splashed down in the Pacific Ocean north of Hawaii three hours after launch. While the flight ended in a fireball, the mission achieved the primary goal of reaching orbit and delivering the most advanced Starlink satellites to date.

   Why it matters

   The Starship program aims to enable human life on other planets and supports NASA's Artemis moon program. Flight 14 followed 13 previous suborbital test flights. This orbital milestone proves the vehicle's ability to carry heavy payloads into space.

   What is confirmed

   • Starship Flight 14 reached orbit for the first time on September 28, 2026.
   • The mission successfully deployed 26 Starlink V3 satellites.
   • SpaceX cut the flight short to ensure safety.
   • The spacecraft splashed down in the Pacific Ocean north of Hawaii three hours after liftoff.
   • The rocket launched from the Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas.

   Still unconfirmed

   • Flight 15 may attempt to catch the Starship spacecraft at the launch tower.
   • An engine shut down during the orbital mission.

   What to watch next

   • Flight 15 launch date and mission objectives
   • Verification of the Starship catch attempt at the launch tower
   Sources used for this update (19)

   1. www.spacex.com — SpaceX - Launches
   2. mynews13.com — SpaceX launches last O3b mPOWER satellites
   3. www.nbcnews.com — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches into orbit for the first time but flight ends early
   4. nypost.com — SpaceX launches massive Starship into orbit for the first time despite engine shutting down
   5. Phys.org — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
   6. spacenexus.us — Starship Flight 14: First Orbital Attempt Targeted Sept 28
   7. www.space.com — What time will SpaceX launch its 1st orbital Starship test on ...
   8. www.basenor.com — SpaceX Starship Tracker: Flight Log & Next Launch (2026)
   9. www.spacelaunchschedule.com — Starship Launch Schedule: SpaceX Starbase Updates & Test Flights
   10. flipboard.com — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches into orbit for the first time
   11. www.latimes.com — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches into orbit for the ...
   12. www.cbsnews.com — SpaceX launches Starship on giant rocket's first flight to ...
   confidence 95%
7. 37d ago

   SpaceX Prepares Starship for First Orbital Flight

   SpaceX is preparing its giant Starship rocket for its first orbital flight, which is scheduled for Monday. Designated Flight 14, the mission carries a payload of 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites. This test flight follows a six-day delay from an initial September 22 target, moving the launch date to September 28. The rescheduled launch window opens at 8:15 a.m. Florida time and runs for 75 minutes. Company officials maintain that the megarocket is fully ready for orbit despite the postponement.

   Why it matters

   This mission marks a major technical milestone for SpaceX as the company attempts to push the massive megarocket into orbit for the first time. The inclusion of 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites highlights the commercial utility being tested alongside the vehicle's core flight capabilities. Launch windows for orbital attempts require precise timing and vehicle readiness.

   What is confirmed

   • SpaceX is preparing Starship for its first orbital test flight on Monday, September 28.
   • The Flight 14 mission payload includes 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites.

   What to watch next

   • The opening of the 75-minute launch window at 8:15 a.m. Florida time on September 28
   • Successful liftoff and orbital insertion of the 26 Starlink V3 satellites
   Sources used for this update (2)

   1. tech.yahoo.com — What time will SpaceX's Starship Flight 14 orbital test launch on Sept. 28? (Full mission timeline)
   2. spacecoastdaily.com — SpaceX Readies Giant Starship for First Orbital Flight on Monday, Payload Includes 26 Starlink V3 Satellites
   confidence 100%
8. 41d ago

   SpaceX delays first Starship orbital flight to September 28

   SpaceX postponed the first orbital flight of Starship from September 22 to September 28. The mission, designated Flight 14, will attempt to deliver 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites into space. The rescheduled launch window opens at 8:15 a.m. Florida time and lasts for 75 minutes. Despite the six-day delay, the company maintains that the megarocket is ready for orbit.

   Why it matters

   This mission marks the first time Starship aims to reach orbit. Success would allow SpaceX to deploy larger V3 satellites to expand its internet constellation. The event follows 13 previous test launches.

   What is confirmed

   • SpaceX rescheduled the first orbital flight of Starship to September 28.
   • The mission is designated Flight 14.
   • The launch aims to deliver 26 Starlink V3 satellites into orbit.
   • The original launch date was September 22.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The launch window begins at 8:15 a.m. Florida time and lasts for 75 minutes.

   What to watch next

   • The launch attempt on September 28
   • Confirmation of Starlink V3 satellite deployment
   Sources used for this update (3)

   1. note.com — Starlink V3, first orbital launch of 26 satellites delayed by 6 days—pushed to September 28
   2. www.usatoday.com — As SpaceX eyes flight 14 for Starship, relive all 13 previous launches
   3. note.com — Starlink V3, 26기의 첫 궤도 발사 6일 연기——9월 28일로 미뤄져
   confidence 90%
9. 45d ago

   SpaceX delays first Starship orbital flight to Sept. 28

   SpaceX rescheduled the first orbital flight of Starship to September 28, pushing the launch back six days from the original September 22 target. This mission, designated Flight 14, aims to place the first V3 Starlink satellites into orbit. Market reactions were mixed, with some reports indicating a stock pop ahead of the event while other data shows a slip following the delay announcement. The company has declared the megarocket ready for orbit despite the shift in timing.

   Why it matters

   Starship is the largest rocket ever built and is central to SpaceX's goals for satellite deployment and deep space exploration. The V3 Starlink satellites represent a newer generation of the company's internet constellation. Successful orbital insertion is the primary milestone for this specific test flight.

   What is confirmed

   • SpaceX rescheduled the first orbital flight of Starship to September 28.
   • The mission is designated as Flight 14.
   • The original target date for the launch was September 22.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The next Starship flight test will deploy the first V3 Starlink satellites into orbit.
   • SpaceX stock slipped following the delay to September 28.
   • SpaceX stock increased ahead of the launch.

   What to watch next

   • Confirmation of launch window opening on September 28
   • Successful deployment of V3 Starlink satellites
   • Post-flight telemetry data regarding orbital insertion
   Sources used for this update (7)

   1. Ars Technica — SpaceX declares Starship ready for orbit, sets launch date next week
   2. SpaceX — Starship Flight 14
   3. Yahoo Finance — SpaceX stock pops ahead of Starship launch
   4. space.com — SpaceX pushes next Starship launch back to Sept. 28, a 6-day delay for megarocket's 1st orbital flight
   5. Investor's Business Daily — SpaceX Eyes New Starship Launch Date. SPCX Orbits Aggressive Entry.
   6. Light Reading — Next Starship flight test to put first 'V3' Starlink satellites into orbit
   7. finance.yahoo.com — SpaceX stock slips as Starship orbital flight delayed to Sept. 28
   confidence 90%