SourceNASA and SpaceX engineers completed transonic and supersonic wind tunnel tests on a 1.2% scale model of SpaceX's Super Heavy Version 3 rocket booster at NASA Ames Research Center.
- Tests were conducted in late 2025 at NASA Ames Research Center in California using both transonic (Mach 0.2 to Mach 1.4) and supersonic (Mach 1.55 to Mach 2.5) wind tunnels.
- The testing evaluated steady and unsteady aerodynamic forces during re-entry on a 1.2% scale model featuring three larger gridfins, Raptor 3 engines, and an integrated hot stage.
- Data collected will refine flight software guidance and aerodynamic load models for SpaceX's Starship HLS ahead of the Artemis III mission in 2027.