Images from a multi‑day cryoproof campaign at the Massey Outpost show SpaceX’s Ship 39 undergoing its first full test sequence as a next‑generation Starship V3. Engineers validated a redesigned propellant system and ran structural "squeeze" tests to simulate forces from future recovery operations. Completing these cold‑temperature and structural checks is a significant milestone on the road to Flight 12, the ship’s planned first flight.
SpaceX’s Ship 39 Shines in First Starship V3 Cryoproof Campaign
SpaceX's Ship 39 looks cool as it undergoes cryosystem checks on Sunday March 8 | Credit: SpaceX
Images from cryogenic testing show SpaceX's Ship 39 in striking detail as it completed the inaugural cryoproof campaign for the next‑generation Starship V3. The multi‑day campaign took place at the Massey Outpost at Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas — SpaceX’s primary facility for cryogenic checks on ships and boosters.
What Was Tested
SpaceX said on its X feed: "Ship 39 cryoproof operations complete, the first campaign with a next‑generation Starship V3." Over several days, engineers exercised the vehicle’s redesigned propellant system and evaluated structural integrity, including "squeeze" tests designed to mimic the stresses that will occur during future ship catches and recovery operations.
Why It Matters
Cryoproof operations verify that tanks, plumbing and structures tolerate extreme cold and pressure changes encountered during fueling and flight operations. By passing these checks, Ship 39 validated its redesigned propellant architecture and related upgrades — a key milestone toward Flight 12, the ship’s planned first flight.
Location: Massey Outpost, Starbase (Boca Chica), Texas
With this campaign complete, SpaceX can proceed to final preflight reviews and any additional checkouts required before attempting Flight 12. The results also help inform the broader Starship V3 rollout and future crewed and cargo mission planning.
Next Steps: post‑campaign analysis, potential incremental hardware or software adjustments, and scheduling of the vehicle’s first launch attempt, currently designated Flight 12.
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