SpaceX’s Starship rocket exploded during a test flight, months after a previous failed launch attempt – with multiple flights having to be grounded in Florida due to debris.
The 403-foot rocket blasted off from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, at around 6.30pm eastern time (12.30am UK time).
But, within minutes of launch, contact was lost as the spacecraft – designed to land astronauts on the moon and ferry crews to Mars – went into an out-of-control spin.
Engines on top of Starship started shutting down as it streaked eastward. The flight was supposed to be a controlled entry over the Indian Ocean.
It was not immediately clear where the rocket came down, but images of flaming debris seen from Florida and the Caribbean were posted online.
In a statement, SpaceX said: “During Starship’s ascent burn, the vehicle experienced a rapid unscheduled disassembly and contact was lost.
“Our team immediately began coordination with safety officials to implement pre-planned contingency responses.
“We will review the data from today’s flight test to better understand root cause. As always, success comes from what we learn, and today’s flight will offer additional lessons to improve Starship’s reliability.”
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The US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) issued a ground notice for multiple flights after the test launch, and said it will require SpaceX to carry out a mishap investigation into the loss of Starship.
Airports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach and Orlando were issued the notice because of “space launch debris” until 8pm (1am UK…
