SpaceX sends Starship into orbit for the first time
SpaceX Starship reaches orbit in a milestone test flight from Starbase, Texas See how the launch supports Starlink expansion and future Moon missions
SpaceX launched its Starship rocket early Monday from Starbase, Texas, marking the vehicle’s first successful trip into orbit. The Federal Aviation Administration had approved the launch and reentry operations on Sept. 26.
During the 14th test flight, the company also planned to deploy 26 of its newest Starlink V3 satellites. SpaceX said the booster returned in a soft splashdown while the Starship spacecraft continued its flight after reaching orbit.
The milestone is important for SpaceX’s broader plans, including expanding Starlink and preparing Starship for future NASA missions, such as bringing astronauts back to the moon. The company says the larger rocket is designed to carry more cargo at lower cost than its earlier launch systems.