SpaceX to launch giant Starship spacecraft. Here's how to watch live

SpaceX, the private space company founded by Elon Musk, is preparing to launch its massive Starship rocket on its 12th test flight. This giant vehicle is designed to make space travel more affordable and routine, with the long-term goal of carrying people and cargo to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. All eyes will remain on the test flight as one of the world's most popular private space firms. Starship stacked on the pad at Starbase. (Photo: X/@SpaceX) WHAT MAKES THIS LAUNCH SPECIAL? Starship is the world's biggest and most powerful rocket currently in development. It has two main parts, a huge booster called Super Heavy for the initial lift, and the Starship spacecraft on top. This flight introduces an upgraded "Version 3" design with more powerful engines and other improvements learnt from previous tests. It will also lift off from a brand-new launch pad at Starbase in South Texas. The rocket will follow a high suborbital path to test real-world performance without entering full orbit. Right now, we're actively building multiple next-generation V3 Starship and Super Heavy vehicles, incorporating learnings from every flight test pic.twitter.com/ivoN0Mqm2C— SpaceX (@SpaceX) October 13, 2025 HOW TO WATCH THE SPACEX LAUNCH LIVE? The launch window for the test flight will open at 4:00 am IST on Friday, May 22, 2026 and live coverage of is expected to begin around 3:15 am IST. Those interested in watching the launch will be able to watch it for free in several easy ways. Head to the official SpaceX website, where the space firm usually posts a direct link to the live stream on their launches page. Another quick option is to follow the action on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) through the official account, which often shares the live video and real-time updates. Watch Starship's twelfth flight test SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 21, 2026 You can also tune in on YouTube by searching for the official SpaceX channel or the dedicated launch stream. SpaceX provides clear commentary, multiple camera angles, and real-time updates during the flight. Set an alarm, gather your friends or family, and tune in comfortably from your phone or laptop. The stream is beginner-friendly and perfect for first-time viewers. In addition to that, India Today Science will bring you all the latest updates in real time. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER LAUNCH? After liftoff, the booster will aim for a controlled return, while the upper Starship stage will test its heat shield during re-entry, try restarting an engine in space, and release small test payloads before splashing down in the Indian Ocean. Final descent and splashdown of Starship on Flight 11, captured by the SpaceX recovery team in the Indian Ocean pic.twitter.com/TzvFnf8Z6d— SpaceX (@SpaceX) October 14, 2025 Weather currently gives about a 55% chance of good conditions, so the exact timing within the window may shift slightly. Each Starship flight builds on the last, turning ambitious ideas into reliable technology. These tests help SpaceX create rockets that can often fly, carry heavy loads, and be reused quickly, which are steps that could one day open space to more people. Whether you're staying up late to watch or catch the highlights later, this is a front-row seat to the future of exploration. And the best part is, you can enjoy it from the comfort of your home and be part of a historic moment. Ends