The launch comes just over two months since the 12th test flight that was the first for the new Version 3 of the rocket. That mission suffered an uncontrolled landing of its booster in the Gulf that ultimately led to the rocket’s grounding by the Federal Aviation Administration, which was lifted earlier this month.

Tesla shares plunged 18% during the week to close at $313.03 on Friday, their worst weekly slump since 2022. And SpaceX's stock continued its downward slide, dropping 7.2% over five days to close at $115.07 Friday, its lowest since the company's record initial public offering last month.

SpaceX is targeting Thursday, July 23, for its next Starship rocket launch - as long as Tropical Storm Bertha doesn't interfere. What you need to know.