Main Engine Cut Off

Yesterday, SpaceX completed a full-duration static fire of the JCSAT-14 core. This is the core that took what Elon Musk called “max damage” and will not be flying again. Instead, it will be used for ground tests like these to verify the reusability of other cores. Also note that the interstage at the top appears to be changed out, and I’ll bet the flown interstage is undergoing tests, as well.

This test, assuming all went well, will pave the way for static fires of the other returned cores, with CRS-8’s core on its way to another flight this fall.

Any day now we should hear this from Arianespace: “It’s great SpaceX was able to complete a full-duration static fire, but let us know when they fly one, because that’s the real test.”