SpaceX Gears Up for Its Most Important Rocket Test Yet

FomoAnxiety · 2026-03-19T22:56:29+00:00

SpaceX is set to launch Starship V3 in April, featuring enhanced capacity and orbital refueling capabilities crucial for future missions to Mars and a potential lunar research station. The focus on full reusability aims to significantly cut launch costs.

FomoAnxiety

2026-03-19 22:56:29

Abstract generation in progress

Elon Musk‘s aerospace firm SpaceX is preparing for the planned April launch of its next-generation Starship V3, which will be one of its most important rocket tests yet. This new version is slightly larger than earlier models, with a taller Super Heavy booster and upper stage, along with upgraded Raptor 3 engines that produce more efficient and powerful thrust. At the same time, V3 is designed to carry over 100 tons to low Earth orbit, which is a big jump from about 35 tons previously.

Claim 70% Off TipRanks Premium

Unlock hedge fund-level data and powerful investing tools for smarter, sharper decisions
Stay ahead of the market with the latest news and analysis and maximize your portfolio’s potential

This added capacity is critical for long-term goals such as missions to Mars, which require transporting large amounts of cargo, fuel, and, eventually, people. Separately, SpaceX is focusing on orbital refueling, which may be the most important upgrade of all. Instead of acting as a one-time-use rocket, Starship is being built as a full transportation system that can refuel in space and continue traveling deeper into the solar system. Without this capability, large-scale missions to the Moon or Mars would not be possible.

Forget margin or options. Here’s how the pros trade TSLA

The company is also aiming for full reusability of both the rocket and booster, which could reduce launch costs by up to 90%. If successful, this would open the door for larger science missions. Indeed, NASA expects Starship to be used for a mission to the Moon’s South Pole in 2028, with the long-term goal of building a permanent research station there. Moreover, Elon Musk has said that the Moon may serve as a stepping stone before Mars, since it is much closer and easier to reach regularly.

What Is the Prediction for TSLA Stock?

When it comes to Elon Musk’s companies, most of them are privately held. However, retail investors can invest in his most popular company, Tesla TSLA -2.36% ▼ . Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Hold consensus rating on TSLA stock based on 13 Buys, 11 Holds, and seven Sells assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average TSLA price target of $399.25 per share implies 5.1% upside potential.

Disclaimer & DisclosureReport an Issue

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.