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SpaceX is preparing to launch Starship next week on a mission to complete six orbits of Earth over nearly 10 hours, a milestone test for the company's next-generation rocket program. The flight represents a critical step toward Starship's eventual use in missions including satellite deployment, lunar landings, and Mars ambitions. A successful orbital flight would mark significant progress after a series of prior test setbacks, with substantial technical and reputational stakes riding on the outcome for SpaceX and its broader launch business.