SpaceX Starship Explodes on Landing After High-Altitude Flight

SpaceX Continues Starship Development with Latest Flight Test

SpaceX recently conducted another flight test of its Starship spacecraft, a launch vehicle currently under development at its facilities in south Florida. This particular test featured SN9, the ninth prototype in the ongoing series of rockets.

Test Objectives and Execution

The objective of the test was to propel SN9 to an altitude of approximately 10 kilometers – equivalent to just over six miles, or nearly 33,000 feet. Following the achievement of this peak altitude, the spacecraft was programmed to adjust its orientation in preparation for a simulated re-entry. A controlled descent and landing were then initiated.

This flight mirrored a previous test conducted in December utilizing the SN8 prototype. SN9 successfully reached its designated altitude and executed the planned “belly flop” maneuver, alongside a successful transfer of propellant.

Successful Maneuvers and Landing Challenges

The test also validated the functionality of Starship’s control flaps. These flaps, powered by onboard motors, are crucial for managing the spacecraft’s angle during atmospheric flight.

However, the landing phase encountered difficulties. While attempting to re-orient vertically for touchdown, the spacecraft deviated from a perfectly upright position and maintained excessive speed. Consequently, a dramatic explosion occurred upon impact with the ground.

Comparison to Previous Test

A similar outcome occurred during the SN8 test, where the flight progressed smoothly until the landing attempt. Although SN8 appeared better aligned for landing, a hard touchdown resulted in its destruction. A definitive assessment of which test was more successful requires access to detailed data and testing parameters.

Reusability and Data Collection

The “belly flop” maneuver is a vital component of Starship’s design, intended to facilitate full reusability. The ultimate goal is a powered, controlled landing – excluding, of course, the explosive element. SpaceX emphasized that the majority of the test objectives were successfully met.

Early-stage testing is inherently unpredictable, and the primary focus is on gathering data to refine future iterations and spacecraft development. While achieving perfection on initial attempts is desirable, it’s rarely realized in the field of rocketry.

Future Plans

SpaceX’s openness regarding its development program at this stage of testing is noteworthy. The company is already preparing for another attempt with its SN10 prototype, currently positioned at its launch site in Texas.

Further tests are anticipated in the near future as SpaceX continues to advance the Starship program.