SpaceX is continuing construction on facilities at Starbase, Texas, while preparing hardware for Flight 14. Work is progressing on structural test articles, Gigabay, Massey’s, and Pad 1.
Ship 42 completed cryo-proof testing at Massey’s on September 3 and will return to Mega Bay 2 for engine installation. A static fire test is anticipated within approximately six weeks, consistent with recent timelines. Ship S43.1 is undergoing testing in the supercrusher structure, focusing on header tanks and nose-cone hardware, with actuator tests completed on both methane and liquid oxygen header tanks. Further catch-point and flap-hinge tests are planned.
The booster LOX landing-tank article has undergone six tests since Flight 13, subjecting the tank to simulated flight loads. SpaceX may be addressing issues identified during that flight, though this is unconfirmed. The site is upgrading its liquid nitrogen (LN2) storage, replacing seven smaller tanks with three 1,000-cubic-meter tanks and rebuilding the associated vaporizer system. Construction has begun on what appears to be a second Supercrusher cage, allowing for simultaneous testing of multiple structural articles.
Gigabay is nearing completion, with structural steel in place and roof installation underway. Crews are also assembling a transfer aisle bridge crane, with girder components arriving from Sanchez. Work stands and platforms for vehicle processing are still needed. Pad 1’s reconfiguration is progressing, with the schedule expected to accelerate once the trench floor and ramps are poured. First- and second-level pieces of the Pad 1 launch mount are already in place at Sanchez.
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