Musk indicated that the launch of the upgraded V3 version of Starship is now expected within four to six weeks—placing it in the first half of May—rather than the previously suggested April timeline.
The delay comes as SpaceX continues to incorporate extensive upgrades into the next-generation rocket system. The V3 iteration has undergone months of refinement, with engineers focusing on improving reliability and aligning the spacecraft with mission requirements for NASA, particularly its role in the Artemis program aimed at returning humans to the Moon.
Starship, designed as a fully reusable rocket system, is central to SpaceX’s long-term ambitions for deep space travel. It is built to carry significantly larger payloads than the company’s current workhorse, the Falcon rocket, and is expected to play a key role in future lunar and Mars missions.
The company’s previous Starship test flight—its 11th—took place in October, with subsequent delays reflecting the scale of modifications being made to the vehicle.
Separately, SpaceX is reportedly preparing for a major financial milestone, having confidentially filed for a U.S. initial public offering. According to Reuters, the move could pave the way for one of the largest stock market debuts in history, with the Starbase-based company targeting a valuation exceeding $1.75 trillion.