Scientists are studying the acoustics of rocket launches at SpaceX's Starbase to better understand the sounds and sonic booms produced by frequent launches, which are becoming more common with companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin increasing their launch schedules.
A study by Brigham Young University scientists has revealed the true sound levels of SpaceX's Starship, showing it is significantly louder than NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) and Falcon 9 rockets. The research, conducted during Starship's fifth flight test, found discrepancies between actual sound levels and those predicted by the FAA's Environmental Assessment. The study highlights the intense noise produced by Starship's 33 Raptor engines and the sonic booms during landing, emphasizing the need for improved noise prediction models and further data collection as SpaceX plans to increase its launch frequency.