SpaceX is preparing for a third test flight of its Starship rocket on March 14 at Boca Chica, Texas, pending FAA approval.

The upcoming mission includes testing payload door operation, in-space propellant transfer, and Raptor engine re-ignition, with a new flight trajectory set to land in the Indian Ocean.

NASA's Artemis mission, aiming to land astronauts on the Moon in 2026, is closely tied to the success of SpaceX's Starship, which is contracted for lunar crew landings.

Private individuals have shown interest in Starship, with Jared Isaacman and Yusaku Maezawa signed up for future flights.

NASA's backup option includes a contract with Blue Origin for a lunar lander, suggesting alternative plans if Starship is not ready in time for the Artemis missions.

NASA requires Starship to demonstrate multiple successful missions before it can be deemed safe for crewed flights, impacting the timeline for lunar return.

The FAA has yet to award a license for the upcoming Starship launch following the completion of the investigation into the second flight.