Starship Block 2 Nosecone

It has been spotted on LabPadre's channel that SpaceX have made the first Block 2 version nosecone for Starship. This version includes significant redesigns to the flaps, hopefully improving their performance during re-entry.

Key changes in Starship Block 2 Flaps

Smaller hinge and inset design

The flaps on Block 2 version are designed to be inset forward more and feature smaller hinges compared to the previous version. This redesign will hopefully withstand the effects of re-entry more effectively.

Improved heat shielding

During IFT-4 flight of Starship when re-entering, the hot ionised plasma managed to get into the flap hinge which meant it burnt through and effectively destroyed the flap and its heat shields. Despite this, the flaps continued to function during landing. This new design means the body of Starship will bear the brunt of heating, rather than the flaps, thus enhancing the chances of withstanding the effects of re-entry.

Enhanced durability

By repositioning the flap and reducing hinge size, SpaceX aims to reduce the chances of burn through observed on IFT-3. This new flap design will hopefully go a long way in making Starship successful through re-entry and landings.

This new flap design comes at a time when SpaceX is trying to prove Starship's re-entry abilities. SpaceX hopes Starship will become the first ever rapidly reusable spaceship. Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, has previously mentioned a turnaround time of a few hours.

EDIT

Since posting this article StarshipGazer has found out that this nosecone will be for Ship 33!