SpaceX, the space tourism company founded by Elon Musk, has launched its second starship. Only to be intentionally destroyed seven minutes into its flight. Here are the facts.
Ground Control to SpaceX Starship
The second test flight of the Starship, SpaceX’s premier rocket, was launched at 8 am on November 18th.
Originally, the rocket was scheduled to fly around the world before crashing off the coast of Hawaii.
THAT IS BEFORE THE ROCKET WAS DESTROYED AFTER SEVEN MINUTES IN OUR ATMOSPHERE.
During the launch, the team celebrated the successful detachment of the Super Heavy Boosters from the ship. Soon after, they realized they had lost contact with the main vehicle.
Once they lost contact, the decision was made to detonate the Starship. The Flight Termination System, a standard feature within rockets, triggered the destruction. The detonation occurred roughly 485,000 feet above sea level.
SPACEX LOST BOTH THE MAIN STARSHIP AND THE SUPER HEAVY BOOSTERS.
No individuals were on board the test flight. The Flight Aviation Administration claimed no injuries or damages during the destruction.
SpaceX and NASA affirmed that this launch surpassed expectations.
A SpaceX representative mentioned that the day was:
“…INCREDIBLY SUCCESSFUL, EVEN THOUGH WE DID HAVE A ‘RAPID UNSCHEDULED DISASSEMBLY’ BOTH OF THE SUPER HEAVY BOOSTER AND THE SHIP.”
The FAA will investigate the destruction of the Starship…
And it wouldn’t be the first time.
Houston… We Have a Problem…
Musk might be optimistic about the launch, but the failure to meet expectations poses some setbacks for his company.
The first test launch of the Starship took place earlier this year in February. The results were similar to the most recent launch…
The rocket exploded moments after liftoff.
The FAA investigated the flagship launch. And now, has announced another for this second attempt. These are considered “mishap” investigations. They identify the issues that led to the loss of contact and untimely detonation.
Before the SpaceX Starship can get back to liftoff, they need approval for a new launch license.
The problem is that before the license can be reviewed, the FAA must complete this investigation. It could take as long as seven months.
While the company leans into risk-tolerant culture, there is always the question of whether space is the place for Musk…
Especially after such explosive results.
Be Great,
GCTV Staff
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