Fourth test of Musk’s enormous Starship rocket successful, avoids explosion | Latest in Science & Technology
Space X’s Starship has successfully splashed down in the Indian Ocean after ditching its booster rocket, marking a significant achievement following previous explosive attempts.
For this fourth attempt, Elon Musk’s company upgraded software and made other changes before the launch from Texas, completing a half lap around the planet.
Sharing the news on X, SpaceX stated: “Splashdown confirmed! Congratulations to the entire SpaceX team on an exciting fourth flight test of Starship!”
The spacecraft blasted off from Texas
Starship, standing at nearly 400ft (121m) tall, is the world’s largest and most powerful rocket.
The first-stage booster separated successfully and landed in the Gulf of Mexico shortly after the launch.
Following an hour-long flight, Starship carried out its crucial re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere and safely splashed down in the sea as planned.
Starship made a brief journey into space
The team at mission control in California celebrated as they reached their goal.
These tests are essential in Space X’s mission to make Starship reusable, demonstrating control over the spacecraft and booster descent.
NASA has purchased two Starships for upcoming moon-landing missions, and Musk’s company is already offering tourist trips around the moon.
Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News
This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.
Please refresh the page for the fullest version.
You can receive Breaking News alerts on a smartphone or tablet via the Sky News App. You can also follow @SkyNews on X or subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with the latest news.
