According to Sawyer Merritt, SpaceX has introduced the Raptor 3 rocket engine, which will debut on Starship Version 3 with a first launch scheduled for Q1 2026. The Raptor 3 delivers nearly double the thrust of Raptor 1, is four times less expensive, and is significantly lighter, saving 2,425 lbs per engine and a total of 94,575 lbs per launch. Its design eliminates the need for a heat shield and is optimized for high-efficiency manufacturability. These advancements set a new benchmark for AI-driven design optimization and automated manufacturing in the aerospace sector. The integration of AI in engine design and production opens up new business opportunities for AI startups focused on generative design, predictive maintenance, and high-throughput manufacturing process automation. (Source: Sawyer Merritt on Twitter)