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SpaceX encountered a major setback as its upgraded Starship V3 rocket booster exploded during early testing in South Texas. The incident occurred during gas system pressure testing, damaging an entire side of the lower section without harming anyone. Livestreamers captured the explosion, revealing the extent of the damage to the partially assembled structure. The event highlights the challenges in developing next-gen spacecraft capable of lunar and Martian missions. SpaceX emphasized the need for further investigation before confirming the cause of the blast.
Key facts
- A Starship V3 rocket booster exploded during gas system pressure testing at SpaceX’s South Texas facility.
- The explosion damaged an entire side of the lower section, leaving the rest of the structure intact.
- No injuries were reported as the testing area was cleared before the incident.
- The blast occurred early in the development process, before rocket engines were installed.
- The incident could delay SpaceX’s plans for lunar and Martian missions, including orbital refueling demonstrations.
TAGS:
#explosion #moon mission #NASA #orbital refueling #rocket testing #space exploration #SpaceX #SpaceX V3 #Starship #technological development
