Summary

  • SpaceX’s attempt to launch its Starship rocket for the eighth time ended in disaster when the rocket exploded just under ten minutes after launch.
  • Debris rained down on the Caribbean, causing flights to be diverted and delayed in Florida and Turks and Caicos Islands.
  • The explosion was caused by a “energetic event” in the rocket’s aft end, which caused it to lose control and spin before exploding and communications were lost.
  • The incident is similar to the seventh test flight, which exploded on the launch pad and resulted in a three-month delay while the cause was investigated.
  • The Starship’s ninth test flight will face increased scrutiny, but the investigation into the explosion could delay future launches.

By Andrew Liszewski

Original Article