SpaceX's Starship Program Faces Setback After Explosions

SpaceX's Starship program encountered a significant setback when Ship 36 exploded during a ground test in Texas, destroying the upper stage and causing fires. This incident, captured on video, occurred just hours after the FAA set a tentative launch date for June 29, now delayed. The explosion is the latest in a series of failures since the Version 2 design was introduced in January, including issues with vibrations, engine failures, and fuel leaks. Despite efforts to develop Version 3, aimed at addressing current problems and enabling orbital refueling, delays cast doubt on meeting NASA's Artemis III 2027 deadline and Elon Musk's Mars ambitions. The program's challenges underscore the uncertainty in achieving these ambitious goals.
Published: 6/19/2025