SpaceX successfully launched its largest and most powerful Starship yet on Friday, an upgraded version that NASA plans to use for lunar landings. The third-generation Starship, designated V3, lifted off from SpaceX's Starbase facility near Boca Chica, Texas, after a 24-hour delay due to last-minute pad issues.
The 124-metre-tall rocket carried 20 mock Starlink satellites, which were deployed during the hour-long flight that reached an altitude of 120 miles. Despite some engine trouble, the spacecraft reached its intended destination in the Indian Ocean, where it erupted in flames upon impact—a result that SpaceX said was expected. Elon Musk called the launch and landing 'epic,' telling his team, 'You scored a goal for humanity.'
This was the 12th test flight of the Starship system, which Musk is developing with the ultimate goal of transporting humans to Mars. However, the immediate focus is on NASA's Artemis programme, which aims to return astronauts to the moon. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman attended the launch, stating that Starship was now 'one step closer to the moon.'
The upgraded V3 model features a more powerful engine thrust, larger grid fins for booster recovery, and a reinforced fuel transfer line. The spacecraft also includes additional cameras, navigation systems, and docking cones for future missions. Unlike previous tests, no rocket stages were recovered; the booster ended its flight in the Gulf of Mexico.
NASA is funding both SpaceX and Blue Origin to develop lunar landers for the Artemis programme. The first crewed lunar landing since Apollo 17 could occur as early as 2028, using either Starship or Blue Origin's Blue Moon lander. SpaceX is already accepting reservations for private flights around the Moon and Mars, with notable sign-ups including former space tourist Dennis Tito and his wife.
