After repeated explosions, new test for Musk's megarocket
The world's most powerful launch vehicle, Starship is central to Elon Musk's plans to return astronauts to the Moon and eventually colonize Mars. But repeated explosions have left debris scattered over Caribbean islands, disrupted flights, and raised questions about the program's safety record.
The rocket's 10th test is slated for as early as August 24 from SpaceX's Starbase facility in Texas, according to the company's website. Previous attempts this year saw the spacecraft reach space but disintegrate before a planned splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico, following a fuel leak and loss of control.
Standing 403 feet (123 meters) tall, the rocket is designed to be fully reusable and launch at a fraction of traditional costs. SpaceX has embraced a 'fail fast, learn fast' approach, but the latest setbacks — including a June ground test explosion — have intensified pressure on Musk's company.
Despite the failures, Musk insists Starship will begin uncrewed Mars missions next year. Yet environmental concerns are mounting. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum threatened legal action in June over falling debris and contamination, while US regulators recently raised the annual limit on Starship launches from five to 25.
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After repeated explosions, new test for Musk's megarocket
SpaceX said on Friday that its Starship megarocket is scheduled for another test flight next weekend, after a series of fiery failures that have drawn scrutiny from regulators and foreign governments. The world's most powerful launch vehicle, Starship is central to Elon Musk's plans to return astronauts to the Moon and eventually colonize Mars. But repeated explosions have left debris scattered over Caribbean islands, disrupted flights, and raised questions about the program's safety record. The rocket's 10th test is slated for as early as August 24 from SpaceX's Starbase facility in Texas, according to the company's website. Previous attempts this year saw the spacecraft reach space but disintegrate before a planned splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico, following a fuel leak and loss of control. Standing 403 feet (123 meters) tall, the rocket is designed to be fully reusable and launch at a fraction of traditional costs. SpaceX has embraced a 'fail fast, learn fast' approach, but the latest setbacks — including a June ground test explosion — have intensified pressure on Musk's company. Despite the failures, Musk insists Starship will begin uncrewed Mars missions next year. Yet environmental concerns are mounting. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum threatened legal action in June over falling debris and contamination, while US regulators recently raised the annual limit on Starship launches from five to 25.
