Latest news with #staticfiretest
South China Morning Post
a day ago
- Science
- South China Morning Post
SpaceX Starship explodes during routine pre-launch ground test
For more on this story: A huge blast enveloped a SpaceX Starship as it stood upright on a test stand, sending massive plumes of flames and smoke mushrooming into the night sky. The June 18, 2025, incident shook windows and rattled dishes, according to local media reports. The rocket appeared to be undergoing a 'static fire test' of its engines, a routine pre-launch procedure in which a rocket's engines are fired while the rocket remains securely held down on the ground. The rehearsal for an actual launch allows engineers to test rocket systems before they head into space. The incident adds to a series of prior setbacks and launch failures that have dampened Elon Musk's space ambitions, which include missions to Mars.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
SpaceX explosion: Starship explodes prior to static fire test at Starbase facility
The Brief Cameron County officials have confirmed an explosion occurred in Starbase, Texas, involving a Starship. The vehicle exploded prior to a static fire test on Wednesday night. No injuries have been reported. STARBASE, Texas - FOX 26 is learning of a large explosion that occurred in Starbase, Texas, late Wednesday night. What we know According to a social media post from the Cameron County Constable Precinct 1, there was a static fire test being conducted at the facility. Officials said SpaceX's Starship 36 suffered a catastrophic failure and exploded just after 11 p.m. Authorities said no injuries have been reported as of this report. Officials said emergency protocols were quickly enacted. What we don't know An investigation is now underway to determine the cause. What they're saying Space X took to X early Thursday morning and put out a statement saying, "On Wednesday, June 18 at approximately 11 p.m. CT, the Starship preparing for the tenth flight test experienced a major anomaly while on a test stand at Starbase. A safety clear area around the site was maintained throughout the operation and all personnel are safe and accounted for. Our Starbase team is actively working to safe the test site and the immediate surrounding area in conjunction with local officials. There are no hazards to residents in surrounding communities, and we ask that individuals do not attempt to approach the area while saving operations continue." The Source Information from social media post by Cameron County Constable Precinct 1, and a statement posted to X by Space X early Thursday morning. Video Credit: LabPadre via Storyful
