SpaceX’s Starship rocket and Super Heavy booster lift off from the launch pad in Boca Chica, Texas, on Thursday. [Courtesy: SpaceX]
Key Takeaways:
SpaceX's Starship completed its third orbital test flight, demonstrating significant progress by reaching space and achieving key mission objectives like orbital speeds and liquid oxygen transfer, despite the loss of the vehicle during reentry.
The FAA has initiated its third mishap investigation into Starship, grounding the rocket until the inquiry is complete and a new launch license is issued.
Despite the grounding and vehicle loss, this test flight marked crucial steps forward for Starship's development, which is vital for NASA's Artemis moon missions and SpaceX's broader space exploration goals.
In what feels increasingly like a bout of déjà vu, SpaceX’s Starship—the largest and most powerful rocket ever flown—has been grounded again.
The FAA on Thursday initiated its third mishap investigation into Starship after the 400-foot-tall spacecraft and booster were lost during its third orbital test flight. Both components are intended to be reusable.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
