SpaceX tests "mega steel pancake" water deluge system for Starship

In an effort to address the challenges faced during the orbital flight test in April, SpaceX conducted a successful full-pressure test of its innovative water deluge system for the Starship launch vehicle.

The system, called "a mega-steel pancake" by CEO Elon Musk, consists of a thick perforated steel plate beneath the rocket, coupled with multiple massive water jets that continuously cool the rocket while it is bombarded with flames from the engines.

The previous test flight of Starship resulted in significant damage to the launch infrastructure due to the intense heat and energy from the Super Heavy booster's 33 Raptor engines. The water deluge system aims to prevent such damage in future flights by effectively cooling the launch pad.

During the test, a video showed the system in action, spraying a substantial amount of water.

However, concerns have arisen regarding the environmental impact, and SpaceX has yet to apply for an environmental permit for wastewater disposal, as required by the U.S. Clean Water Act.

Nevertheless, SpaceX remains focused on preparing for the next test flight.