SpaceX targets Friday evening for its 12th Starship test flight, marking the debut of Version 3 of the massive rocket. The launch window opens at 6:30 p.m. Eastern from Starbase in Texas, with an 85% chance of favorable weather. Thursday's attempt was scrubbed 40 seconds before liftoff due to a hydraulic pin malfunction on the launch tower arm.

This test flight carries heightened stakes for SpaceX, which reportedly aims to pursue an IPO as early as next month. NASA also watches closely since the agency contracted SpaceX's Starship variant for lunar landings under the Artemis program. Previous test flights showed mixed results, with three failures among the last five attempts, delaying NASA's moon timeline.

Version 3 incorporates significant upgrades including redesigned Raptor engines, streamlined plumbing, and larger grid fins on the Super Heavy booster. SpaceX describes these changes as transformative rather than incremental improvements. The rocket remains 408 feet tall with both stages designed for full reusability.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman recently pushed back the first crewed lunar landing to Artemis IV in 2028, citing Starship's development delays. The agency even floated the possibility of switching to Blue Origin's lander if SpaceX cannot deliver. Friday's successful launch would provide crucial momentum for both SpaceX's public offering and NASA's lunar ambitions.