SpaceX announces new launch date for 12th Starship flight test
EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was updated on Monday, May 18, 2026, to reflect the newly-announced launch date target.
SpaceX is targeting a new date for the 12th flight test of Starship from Starbase in Cameron County, Texas.
The targeted date is now Thursday, May 21. 2026, with the launch window starting at 5:30 p.m., according to a Monday news release.
Previously, SpaceX announced a targeted launch date of Wednesday, May 20.
The launch will require temporary closures of State Highway 4 and Boca Chica Beach. SpaceX will set up a safety zone perimeter in coordination with local law enforcement.
As previously reported, the rocket will launch from a newly designed pad at Starbase. The flight will also be the debut of the next-generation Starship and Super Heavy vehicles, powered by the next evolution of the Raptor engine, SpaceX announced.
Target dates may change based on a number of factors. The city of Starbase issues public notices on temporary closures of Boca Chica Beach and State Highway 4.