SpaceX has successfully launched its giant Starship launch vehicle into space for the fourth time from Boca Chica, Texas. The rocket took off at 15:50 Finnish time and landed the lower part of the launch vehicle, or Super Heavy booster, in a controlled manner in the Gulf of Mexico. During previous test flights in April and November 2023, all parts of the launch vehicle exploded.
This time around, however, the rocket performed as intended, with the upper part flying into an uninhabited area in space and opening and closing the hold doors. Air traffic control attempted to transfer fuel between tanks but there were no issues reported.
SpaceX is aiming to make the Starship a reliable vehicle by the end of 2026 in preparation for carrying astronauts possibly to the Moon as part of NASA’s Artemis program. However, there are still several test flights ahead before it can be used to transport people. Some experts estimate that at least 20 trials may be necessary before it is deemed ready for crewed missions.
The company must also demonstrate its ability to land on the moon as part of NASA’s Artemis program before astronauts can be taken to the lunar surface. The successful test flights are an important step towards achieving these goals and advancing space exploration technology.
