Wire flash
SpaceX Starship reaches orbit on 15th test flight; booster malfunction aborts double-catch attempt
Editorial responsibility
- No named human review is recorded for this page.
- Source reporting is collected, normalized, translated or condensed automatically when needed.
- Automatically published source-backed update
SpaceX's Starship rocket reached orbit during its 15th test flight, but a booster malfunction thwarted an unprecedented attempt to catch both the booster and the upper stage, according to PBS and BBC reports. The first catch was aborted after the booster experienced an explosion or malfunction, preventing the planned double-catch maneuver. CNN described the launch as aiming to make history in Starship's 15th test, while Space reported the vehicle coasting in orbit. The outcome marks a partial success for SpaceX's reusable heavy-lift system, with orbital insertion achieved but the booster recovery objective unmet.
Source report
SpaceX's Starship soared into orbit following a booster malfunction that thwarted an unprecedented double-catch attempt during the vehicle's 15th test flight.
Key Developments
- Launch and orbit: SpaceX lifted off with the aim of making history during Starship's 15th test flight, and the vehicle reached orbit.
- Booster issue: A booster malfunction — described in one report as a booster explosion — prevented the planned double-catch attempt.
- First catch aborted: The first catch was aborted during the double-catch test.
- Night-sky viewing: Live coverage included guidance on how to spot Starship in the night sky as it coasts in orbit.
Sources
- PBS: "SpaceX's Starship soars into orbit after booster malfunction thwarts double catch attempt"
- CNN: "Live updates: SpaceX lifts off, aiming to make history in Starship's 15th test"
- Anchorage Daily News: "SpaceX's Starship soars into orbit after booster explosion prevents an unprecedented double catch"
- BBC: "First catch aborted in SpaceX Starship rocket double-catch test"
- Space: "SpaceX Starship Flight 15 live updates: How to spot Starship in the night sky as it coasts in orbit"
Source
Top stories - Google NewsNeutral / independent
Part of this Story
SpaceX Starship reaches orbit on 15th flight but booster explodes, foiling double catch