Introduction

In an electrifying new study, researchers from Brigham Young University (BYU) have uncovered the staggering noise levels produced by SpaceX’s Starship during its groundbreaking flight tests. When Starship and its booster, Super Heavy, launched for the first time in April 2023, they made history as the most powerful rockets ever flown, equipped with a jaw-dropping 33 Raptor engines. However, their extreme power comes with an ear-splitting price: an alarmingly loud launch experience that has raised environmental concerns.

Research Overview

The BYU team, led by physics expert Kent Gee, has been on-site at SpaceX’s Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, gathering data during multiple flight tests, including the fifth test where Super Heavy attempted an unprecedented catch upon return to Earth. The implications of these flights are profound as SpaceX aims to ramp up their launch schedule to potentially hundreds of missions per year by 2025.

Comparative Noise Levels

The study revealed crucial differences in the sound profiles of Starship compared to NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) and SpaceX’s own Falcon 9. While some findings aligned with the predictions in the FAA's recent Environmental Assessment, discrepancies highlighted the need for improved models. Notably, the measured noise levels from the Starship launch significantly exceeded the levels predicted by the FAA; in certain locations, the actual launch noise was found to be 10-19 decibels louder than expected.

Data Collection Methodology

The BYU team systematically collected sound data from eight distinct locations varying from 9.7 km to 35.5 km away from the launch site, ensuring a diverse array of acoustic environments. They measured the sound produced during the launch and landing of Super Heavy and analyzed the sonic boom experienced during its return. Through their meticulous methods, the researchers discovered an astonishing finding—Super Heavy’s landing noise was comparable to the deafening roar of its launch.

Sonic Boom Findings

Shockingly, the sonic boom generated during Super Heavy’s descent at a distance of 20 km was measured at around 110 decibels—50% louder than that produced by the supersonic Concorde and notably surpassing the Falcon 9’s sonic boom of 90 decibels at the same distance. To top it off, Super Heavy’s launch noise was quantified to be equivalent to at least 10 Falcon 9 launches, raising questions about how such acoustic intensity can impact surrounding areas.

Physics and Engineering Insights

The study also delved into the fascinating intersection of physics and engineering, categorizing the noise levels using A-weighting and Z-weighting metrics to paint a more comprehensive picture of the sound profile produced during launches. While the intense crackling sound of the Raptor engines was a significant contributor to the overall noise, the study's findings emphasize the necessity for continued investigation into the complex fluid dynamics involved in rocket launches.

Future Implications

What does this mean for the future? With SpaceX planning to exponentially increase its launch cadence, ongoing data collection during subsequent flights, including the upcoming Flight 6, will be critical for developing a better understanding of Starship’s sound impact on the environment. It will also help authorities and SpaceX make necessary adjustments to minimize disturbances caused by this revolutionary but thunderous rocket.

Conclusion

As we look ahead, one thing is clear: SpaceX’s Starship is not just a marvel of engineering—it is also a remarkable sonic spectacle, reshaping our understanding of rocket launch noise for years to come. Stay tuned for the next exhilarating chapter in space exploration!