Starship IFT-12: FAA License Window April 5–Oct 5, Late-April Target Set

As of April 1, 2026, SpaceX's Starship Integrated Flight Test 12 (IFT-12) remains on track for a late-April launch following FAA issuance of a launch license valid for the window April 5 through October 5, 2026. Booster 19 — the first V3 Super Heavy, equipped with Raptor 3 engines — was positioned at Pad 2 at Starbase, while Ship 39 had completed cryoloading preflight test objectives. A full 33-engine static fire of Booster 19 was the key remaining milestone before rollout and stacking. IFT-12 will debut SpaceX's V3 Starship architecture, featuring upgraded Raptor 3 engines generating 280+ tf each, a redesigned hot-stage separation system, and the highest payload capacity Starship to date (100+ metric tons to LEO reusable). Success of IFT-12 is a critical step toward demonstrating orbital refueling required for NASA's Artemis HLS crewed lunar landing missions.