In a significant development, SpaceX has commenced testing Ship 28 and Booster 10 as part of their preparations for the third Integrated Flight Test (IFT). However, the actual flight is contingent upon regulatory approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Ship 28 and Booster 10 were swiftly transported from the production facility to the launch site just one month after the completion of IFT 2. During the previous test, Ship 25 and Booster 9 encountered technical issues shortly after the first stage of the flight and had to activate their automated self-destruct systems.

The test campaign for Ship 28 was initiated by firing all six engines for approximately four seconds. Prior to this, the ship had undergone several cryogenic tests at SpaceX's Massey's Test Facility. Recently, it also undertook a spin prime test, which involves a rapid flow of liquid oxygen through the engines.

SpaceX is working at a fast pace to conduct the IFT 3, and this test for Ship 28 could potentially be one of the final ones at the launch site. The company has dismantled suborbital pad A to make space for constructing a second full-size launch tower. In the future, engine testing for ships may be relocated to the Massey's facility, which is already utilized for cryogenic testing.

Apart from Ship 28, SpaceX also conducted tests with Booster 10. The liquid oxygen and liquid methane tanks were partially filled in preparation for a potential static fire. However, the test faced a notably long delay before the tanks were eventually emptied via boil-off. Following this, a complete depress vent was conducted. The test window remained open until 8 PM local time, giving SpaceX ample opportunity to diagnose any encountered issues once the booster was secured.

With the launch site performing exceptionally well after the challenges faced in IFT 2, SpaceX is focused on obtaining FAA approval for the upcoming test flight. Once regulatory clearance is received, the company's relentless pursuit of innovation in space exploration will continue in earnest.

Overall, SpaceX's progress with Ship 28 and Booster 10 marks the beginning of Starship testing, propelling the company closer to their next test flight.