During the recent SpaceX launch, the Super Heavy booster successfully ignited all 33 Raptor engines, marking a significant milestone in the mission. The avionics power and telemetry were reported as nominal, ensuring a smooth trajectory for the spacecraft. As the rocket passed through MaxQ and surpassed the speed of sound, viewers were treated to stunning onboard views from the ship cameras.
The next crucial step was the hot staging maneuver, where all but three center Raptor engines on the Super Heavy booster were shut down to initiate the MECO event. This led to the separation of the two stages, with Starship's second stage igniting its engines to propel the spacecraft into space.