Starbase Overhaul Aims for Back-to-Back Starship Launches

SpaceX is upgrading its Starbase complex with a new flame trench, on-site air separation unit, expanded propellant storage, and relocated ground support to slash turnaround times. Pad 1 is being rebuilt for rapid reuse while Pad 2 undergoes extensive verification testing, including synchronized clamp-retraction demos and tower shielding. An expanded tank farm and the onboard ASU aim to enable on-demand cryogens, reducing logistics bottlenecks as Flight 12 nears and paving the way for quicker flights (Flight 13 onward).