SpaceX Achieves Soft Landing with Starship SN10 Prototype

SpaceX recently launched SN10, representing the tenth build in its current series of Starship prototypes. This heavy-lift, reusable spacecraft is currently under development by the company.

The launch originated from the SpaceX development site in Boca Chica, Texas. SN10 ascended to an altitude of approximately 10 kilometers, or 32,000 feet, before initiating a controlled maneuver for a friction-assisted descent and landing.

A Successful, Though Brief, Landing

Unlike the two preceding Starship prototypes that reached similar altitudes, this flight did not immediately conclude in an explosive event [UPDATE: Although, a subsequent explosion occurred while the rocket was stationary on the landing pad minutes after touchdown, potentially stemming from a fuel leak].

The vehicle successfully executed its landing flip and reduced its velocity for a controlled touchdown, remaining upright and structurally sound afterward. This outcome was deemed nominal and highly positive by SpaceX during its livestream broadcast.

The Reasoning Behind Prior Test Failures

Previous test flights experienced explosive failures. This is partially attributable to SpaceX’s unique approach to vehicle development.

Rocket development inherently involves unforeseen challenges and less-than-ideal results. However, SpaceX operates under a level of public observation that differs significantly from traditional aerospace manufacturers.

Transparency and Rapid Iteration

Firstly, SpaceX conducts its testing in a relatively open environment. The Boca Chica facility consists of basic infrastructure – buildings, concrete pads, tanks, and scaffolding.

The site is situated near a public road (closed during tests, with surrounding areas evacuated), allowing onlookers to observe and record the launches. This contrasts sharply with the more secluded testing practices of established rocket companies.

Secondly, Elon Musk, SpaceX’s founder and CEO, has consistently advocated for a strategy of rapid iteration and prototyping with Starship. This involves concurrent manufacturing and assembly of prototypes, incorporating incremental changes, rather than extensive analysis between each test.

Addressing a Pre-Launch Issue

An earlier launch attempt was aborted due to a brief engine fire. Instrument readings indicated a thrust level exceeding a pre-defined “conservative” limit, as defined by Musk.

The resolution implemented by SpaceX involved adjusting the thrust limit upwards to prevent future aborts.

Looking Ahead

An investigation will undoubtedly be conducted to determine the cause of the post-landing explosion. However, the test was still considered a success, achieving key objectives for this stage of development.

Future plans for Starship include increasing the altitude of subsequent test flights. The ultimate goal remains reaching orbit, but SpaceX will likely conduct several atmospheric launches exceeding this altitude before attempting an orbital flight.

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