Texas rocket launches Starship, deploys Starlink satellites
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SpaceX conducted the 13th test flight of its Super Heavy-Starship launch system from Starbase near Boca Chica, Texas, lifting off at 5:51 p.m. EDT. The 397-foot rocket, powered by 33 methane-fueled Raptor engines, followed an earlier July 16 attempt that was aborted when four engines failed to start and a subsequent weather-related delay tied to Tropical Storm Bertha. In Friday’s flight, the Super Heavy booster separated as planned but experienced a high-velocity hard splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico after fewer than the intended engines restarted. The Starship upper stage reached a sub-orbital trajectory, deployed 20 third-generation Starlink satellites, and successfully demonstrated an in-space engine reignition.
More context
Timeline
- July 16 Previous launch attempt aborted
- Thursday Launch window delayed by weather
- Friday Super Heavy-Starship lifts off successfully
- Friday Booster separates, begins descent maneuver
- Friday Booster impacts Gulf after hard splashdown
- Friday Starship upper stage reaches sub-orbit
- Friday Twenty Starlink satellites deployed in space
- Friday Upper stage Raptor engine successfully reignites
Why it matters
SpaceX's Starship launch is a big leap for space technology. It's pushing the boundaries of what's possible, which could impact future space travel. If you're interested in tech or space exploration, keep an eye on SpaceX's progress.
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
