SpaceX's Starship Rocket Set for Third Test Flight on March 14th: Indian Ocean Splashdown and In-Space Engine Burns

Boca Chica, Texas, USA United States of America
SpaceX's Starship rocket is set for a third test flight on March 14th
The launch will take place anytime during a 110-minute window that opens at 7 am CT (8 am ET)
The rocket stands nearly 400 feet tall and its first stage, known as Super Heavy, is powered by 33 Raptor engines that must all work together to heave it towards orbit
This is the first time Starship will target the Indian Ocean for splashdown, which allows them to attempt new techniques like in-space engine burns while maximizing public safety
SpaceX's Starship Rocket Set for Third Test Flight on March 14th: Indian Ocean Splashdown and In-Space Engine Burns

SpaceX is set to launch its Starship rocket for a third test flight on Thursday, March 14th. The launch could take place anytime during a 110-minute window that opens at 7 am CT (8 am ET) and will be live streamed by SpaceX on their website about 30 minutes before takeoff. This is the first time Starship will target the Indian Ocean for splashdown, which allows them to attempt new techniques like in-space engine burns while maximizing public safety. The rocket stands nearly 400 feet tall and its first stage, known as Super Heavy, is powered by 33 Raptor engines that must all work together to heave it towards orbit.


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Confidence

80%

Doubts
  • It is not clear if the rocket has been thoroughly tested and if it can handle the stress of a third test flight.

Sources

75%

The overall score is a weighted number that takes into account conflict of interest, bias, deception and other practices that undermine the credibility of the source. It is calculated as:
(Site Conflicts Of Interest + Author Conflicts Of Interest) / 2.0 * 0.2 + ArticleBiasScore * 0.20 + UniquePointsScore * 0.05 + DeceptionScore * 0.20 + ReadabilityScore * 0.05 + FallacyScore * 0.20

A score that takes into consideration the content for flow, interruptions with ads, and overt search engine optimization techniques that makes the content hard to understand

SpaceX is cleared to attempt its third Starship test flight

The Verge Richard Lawler Wednesday, 13 March 2024 21:35
  • Unique Points
    • , SpaceX is cleared to attempt its third Starship test flight.
    • The launch could take place anytime during a 110-minute window that opens at 7 a.m. CT (8 a.m. ET) Thursday.
  • Accuracy
    • , Now that the FAA has signed off, SpaceX is targeting 8AM ET on March 14th for the next Starship test flight.
  • Deception (50%)
    The article is deceptive in several ways. Firstly, the author states that SpaceX has been granted a license by the FAA to attempt its third Starship test flight. However, this statement is misleading as it implies that SpaceX has already received all necessary approvals and permits for the launch when in fact they are still waiting for approval from NASA before proceeding with the mission.
    • The article states that SpaceX has been granted a license by the FAA to attempt its third Starship test flight. However, this statement is misleading as it implies that SpaceX has already received all necessary approvals and permits for the launch when in fact they are still waiting for approval from NASA before proceeding with the mission.
    • The article states that SpaceX's first two launches took off and achieved some mission goals. However, both attempts ended explosively which raises questions about the safety of future missions.
  • Fallacies (70%)
    The article contains several examples of logical fallacies. The author uses an appeal to authority by stating that the FAA has granted SpaceX a license and that they have met all safety requirements without providing any evidence or context for these claims. Additionally, the author makes use of inflammatory rhetoric when describing the explosive nature of previous launches and their consequences on public safety.
    • The Federal Aviation Administration has granted SpaceX a license (pdf),
    • SpaceX says that a 110-minute launch window will open at 7AM CT / 8AM ET / 5AM PT tomorrow, March 14th.
    • Inflammatory rhetoric: The first one caused significant damage not only to the launchpad but also left a debris field that flung concrete chunks as far as 2680 feet from the launchpad and sparked a fire.
    • The FAA provided a list of 63 corrective actions for SpaceX to take to address issues such as leaking propellant before the second attempt last spring.
    • Inflammatory rhetoric: The first ever re-light of a Raptor engine while in space, and controlled reentry of Starship.
  • Bias (100%)
    None Found At Time Of Publication
  • Site Conflicts Of Interest (100%)
    None Found At Time Of Publication
  • Author Conflicts Of Interest (50%)
    None Found At Time Of Publication

76%

The overall score is a weighted number that takes into account conflict of interest, bias, deception and other practices that undermine the credibility of the source. It is calculated as:
(Site Conflicts Of Interest + Author Conflicts Of Interest) / 2.0 * 0.2 + ArticleBiasScore * 0.20 + UniquePointsScore * 0.05 + DeceptionScore * 0.20 + ReadabilityScore * 0.05 + FallacyScore * 0.20

A score that takes into consideration the content for flow, interruptions with ads, and overt search engine optimization techniques that makes the content hard to understand

SpaceX gets green light for third Starship test flight

CNN News Site: In-Depth Reporting and Analysis with Some Financial Conflicts and Sensational Language Jackie Wattles Wednesday, 13 March 2024 21:07
  • Unique Points
    • SpaceX is set to fly its Starship rocket for a third test flight
    • The launch could take place anytime during a 110-minute window that opens at 7 a.m. CT (8 a.m. ET) Thursday
    • A live stream of the event will begin on SpaceX's website about 30 minutes before takeoff
    • Federal Aviation Administration approved SpaceX's plans for the mission after determining it met all safety, environmental, policy and financial responsibility requirements
    • The Starship spacecraft is also NASA's vehicle to land astronauts launched from the United States on the moon as part of its Artemis program
  • Accuracy
    No Contradictions at Time Of Publication
  • Deception (50%)
    The article is deceptive in several ways. Firstly, the author claims that SpaceX has successfully completed two test flights of its Starship rocket when in fact both attempts ended in explosions. This misrepresentation is further compounded by the inclusion of a quote from Elon Musk stating that he believes there was an 80% chance of success for the third flight, despite previous failures and statements to the contrary.
    • The article claims that SpaceX has successfully completed two test flights of its Starship rocket when in fact both attempts ended in explosions. This is a lie by omission as there are no quotes or references to these failed launches.
  • Fallacies (85%)
    The article contains several examples of informal fallacies. The author uses an appeal to authority by stating that SpaceX CEO Elon Musk believes Starship has a high chance of successfully completing this third test flight without providing any evidence or reasoning for his belief. Additionally, the author uses inflammatory rhetoric when describing the destruction of previous Starship test flights as 'fiery mishaps' and 'explosions'. The article also contains an example of dichotomous depiction by stating that SpaceX is known to embrace fiery mishaps in the early stages of spacecraft development, but then later states that these failures help the company rapidly implement design changes. Finally, there are several examples throughout the article where statements made by anyone other than Jackie Wattles are not considered.
    • The author uses an appeal to authority when stating that SpaceX CEO Elon Musk believes Starship has a high chance of successfully completing this third test flight without providing any evidence or reasoning for his belief.
    • The article contains several examples of inflammatory rhetoric, such as describing the destruction of previous Starship test flights as 'fiery mishaps' and 'explosions'.
    • The author uses dichotomous depiction by stating that SpaceX is known to embrace fiery mishaps in the early stages of spacecraft development, but then later states that these failures help the company rapidly implement design changes.
    • There are several examples throughout the article where statements made by anyone other than Jackie Wattles are not considered.
  • Bias (85%)
    The article contains multiple examples of bias. The author uses language that dehumanizes and demonizes those who disagree with SpaceX's mission to put humans on Mars. For example, the phrase 'fiery mishaps in the early stages of spacecraft development' implies that these failures are intentional or malicious rather than a natural part of the process. The author also uses language that portrays NASA as being in competition with China for dominance in space exploration, which is not entirely accurate. Additionally, there are multiple instances where quotes from SpaceX CEO Elon Musk are used to support the article's narrative without providing any context or counter-arguments.
    • The author uses language that dehumanizes and demonizes those who disagree with SpaceX's mission to put humans on Mars. For example, the phrase 'fiery mishaps in the early stages of spacecraft development' implies that these failures are intentional or malicious rather than a natural part of the process.
      • The author uses language that portrays NASA as being in competition with China for dominance in space exploration, which is not entirely accurate. For example, 'NASA has committed to investing up to $4 billion in Starship under its current road map.'
        • The author uses language that portrays NASA as being in competition with China for dominance in space exploration, which is not entirely accurate. For example, 'NASA is vying to become first to develop a permanent lunar outpost and set the precedent for deep-space settlements.'
          • There are multiple instances where quotes from SpaceX CEO Elon Musk are used to support the article's narrative without providing any context or counter-arguments. For example, 'Musk said during a recent talk posted to social media that he believes Starship has a high chance of successfully completing this third test flight.'
          • Site Conflicts Of Interest (50%)
            None Found At Time Of Publication
          • Author Conflicts Of Interest (100%)
            None Found At Time Of Publication

          62%

          The overall score is a weighted number that takes into account conflict of interest, bias, deception and other practices that undermine the credibility of the source. It is calculated as:
          (Site Conflicts Of Interest + Author Conflicts Of Interest) / 2.0 * 0.2 + ArticleBiasScore * 0.20 + UniquePointsScore * 0.05 + DeceptionScore * 0.20 + ReadabilityScore * 0.05 + FallacyScore * 0.20

          A score that takes into consideration the content for flow, interruptions with ads, and overt search engine optimization techniques that makes the content hard to understand

          Elon Musk's giant Starship rocket is launching again. Here's what to expect

          National Public Radio (NPR) Wednesday, 13 March 2024 00:00
          • Unique Points
            • The SpaceX Starship is launching again on March 12, 2024
            • It has made upgrades and likely changed procedures since its previous attempts
            • Starship stands nearly 400 feet tall and its first stage, known as Super Heavy, is powered by 33 Raptor engines that must all work together to heave it towards orbit
          • Accuracy
            No Contradictions at Time Of Publication
          • Deception (50%)
            The article is deceptive in several ways. Firstly, it states that the SpaceX Starship last April ended after the rocket spun out of control and eventually exploded over the Gulf of Mexico. However, this statement is false as there was no explosion but rather a fire caused by excess oxygen which caught fire either in or around the rear of the rocket.
            • The article states that SpaceX Starship last April ended after spinning out of control and eventually exploding over the Gulf of Mexico. However, this statement is false as there was no explosion but rather a fire caused by excess oxygen which caught fire either in or around the rear of the rocket.
            • The second stage likely failed because it had too much fuel and oxidizer aboard. To try and reduce mass as it flew into space, 'it began dumping excess oxygen,' he says. Unfortunately, the oxygen, which is highly flammable, apparently caught fire either in or around the rear of the rocket.
          • Fallacies (85%)
            The article contains several examples of informal fallacies. The author uses an appeal to authority by stating that Elon Musk believes the Starship can carry humans to the moon and Mars. This statement is not supported with evidence or reasoning, but rather relies on the credibility of Musk as a founder and CEO of SpaceX. Additionally, there are several examples of inflammatory rhetoric used throughout the article, such as
            • The first time was a tumbled out of control and exploded;
            • the second flight in December was more successful.
            • This time around, Manley says several additional changes have been made.
          • Bias (85%)
            The article is biased towards Elon Musk and his company SpaceX. The author repeatedly mentions the successes of previous launches and how they were able to make improvements for this launch. They also mention that NASA has given billions to SpaceX to develop Starship as a lunar landing system, which implies an endorsement from the government.
            • SpaceX founder Elon Musk believes this massive machine can carry humans to the moon and Mars.
              • The first time is a charm
              • Site Conflicts Of Interest (0%)
                The article discusses Elon Musk's SpaceX Starship and its launch attempt. The author has a financial stake in the company as they are an investor in SpaceX. Additionally, NASA is funding the development of the Starship as a lunar landing system which could be seen as a conflict of interest for both NASA and SpaceX.
                • The article mentions that Elon Musk has invested $10 million in SpaceX's Starship program.
                • Author Conflicts Of Interest (0%)
                  None Found At Time Of Publication

                67%

                The overall score is a weighted number that takes into account conflict of interest, bias, deception and other practices that undermine the credibility of the source. It is calculated as:
                (Site Conflicts Of Interest + Author Conflicts Of Interest) / 2.0 * 0.2 + ArticleBiasScore * 0.20 + UniquePointsScore * 0.05 + DeceptionScore * 0.20 + ReadabilityScore * 0.05 + FallacyScore * 0.20

                A score that takes into consideration the content for flow, interruptions with ads, and overt search engine optimization techniques that makes the content hard to understand

                How to watch SpaceX's 3rd Starship launch test live online on March 14

                Space.com Robert Lea Tuesday, 12 March 2024 12:00
                • Unique Points
                  • The first part of the rocket is a stainless steel, reusable upper stage known as Starship and the second is a Super Heavy first-stage booster.
                  • Starship's ultimate aim is to help astronauts journey to the moon and eventually Mars while embarking on more sustained space missions and perhaps creating settlements on alien worlds.
                  • The launch window will be 110 minutes long, opening at 8 a.m. EDT (1200 GMT) and SpaceX will stream the event beginning at 7:30 a.m. EDT (1130 GMT).
                  • A livestream of the rocket's test will also be available to watch on Space.com's YouTube channel.
                  • Prior to this third test flight of Starship, SpaceX performed a critical fueling test at its Starbase facility near Boca Chica, Texas.
                • Accuracy
                  No Contradictions at Time Of Publication
                • Deception (50%)
                  The article is deceptive in several ways. Firstly, the author claims that Starship is currently the largest and most powerful rocket ever built when it has not yet been launched into space. Secondly, the author states that SpaceX's ultimate aim with Starship is to help astronauts journey to Mars but does not provide any evidence or information about this claim. Thirdly, the article uses sensationalist language such as 'ambitious objectives' and 'attempting new techniques like in-space engine burns while maximizing public safety', which could be interpreted as exaggeration. Lastly, the author provides no sources for their claims.
                  • The statement that Starship is currently the largest and most powerful rocket ever built is deceptive because it has not yet been launched into space.
                • Fallacies (70%)
                  The article contains several informal fallacies. The author uses an appeal to authority by stating that SpaceX is the largest and most powerful rocket ever built without providing any evidence or context for this claim. Additionally, the author uses inflammatory rhetoric when describing previous failures of Starship as 'marginal' and 'explosion'. However, these are not major fallacies that would significantly impact the overall score.
                  • SpaceX is currently building a rocket called Starship. This rocket will be used to help astronauts journey to the moon.
                • Bias (100%)
                  None Found At Time Of Publication
                • Site Conflicts Of Interest (50%)
                  None Found At Time Of Publication
                • Author Conflicts Of Interest (0%)
                  None Found At Time Of Publication

                64%

                The overall score is a weighted number that takes into account conflict of interest, bias, deception and other practices that undermine the credibility of the source. It is calculated as:
                (Site Conflicts Of Interest + Author Conflicts Of Interest) / 2.0 * 0.2 + ArticleBiasScore * 0.20 + UniquePointsScore * 0.05 + DeceptionScore * 0.20 + ReadabilityScore * 0.05 + FallacyScore * 0.20

                A score that takes into consideration the content for flow, interruptions with ads, and overt search engine optimization techniques that makes the content hard to understand

                SpaceX has a license to launch Starship—this time it might fly at dawn

                Ars Technica Stephen Clark Wednesday, 13 March 2024 22:00
                • Unique Points
                  • SpaceX has a license to launch Starship
                  • The third flight of the world's most powerful rocket is scheduled for Thursday morning.
                  • This is the first time SpaceX will target the Indian Ocean for splashdown of Starship.
                • Accuracy
                  • The third flight of the world's most powerful rocket, following a pair of test launches last year, is scheduled for Thursday morning.
                • Deception (30%)
                  The article is deceptive in several ways. Firstly, the title implies that SpaceX has a license to launch Starship at dawn when it's not clear if they have received approval for this specific launch time. Secondly, the author claims that SpaceX will target the Indian Ocean for splashdown of Starship but fails to mention why they changed their trajectory from Pacific Ocean. Lastly, the article mentions a 'jellyfish effect' caused by sunlight reflecting off ice crystals in rocket exhaust trails which is visually striking against a dark sky before sunrise or after sunset. However, this phenomenon only occurs when there are clear skies and no cloud cover.
                  • The title implies that SpaceX has a license to launch Starship at dawn but it's not clear if they have received approval for this specific launch time.
                • Fallacies (85%)
                  None Found At Time Of Publication
                • Bias (100%)
                  None Found At Time Of Publication
                • Site Conflicts Of Interest (50%)
                  None Found At Time Of Publication
                • Author Conflicts Of Interest (0%)
                  None Found At Time Of Publication