It's gonna be one hell of a launch.

Out on the Pad

After numerous delays, SpaceX's Starship prototype SN8 is finally on the launch pad, where engineers are preparing the massive spacecraft for its first-ever high-altitude test flight.

Livestream

Fortunately, SpaceX will be streaming the event live on YouTube — though it's still unclear when the actual launch will take place.

So far, SpaceX has launched previous prototypes to only 150 meters (roughly 500 feet) on two occasions. Starship prototypes SN5 and SN6 pulled off the feat in August and September respectively.

Belly Flop

If today's flight goes according to plan, we'll see the 165 foot SN8 rocket fire up its three Raptor engines to reach an altitude of just under eight miles, according to the latest filings with the Federal Aviation Administration.

After reaching its apogee, the rocket will plummet back down to Earth using its "belly" to slow its descent. Once close to the ground, it will right itself and fire its thrusters for a smooth landing.

READ MORE: SpaceX confirms Tuesday Starship launch debut will have an official webcast [Teslarati]

More on Starship: Elon Musk “Highly Confident” SpaceX Will Land Humans on Mars Within 6 Years


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