The second-ever flight test of SpaceX's vaunted Starship and accompanying launch systems occured this morning at roughly 0700 local time, in Boca Chica, Texas. This footage, provided by SpaceX and Space.com, shows that despite a nominal liftoff and first stage, shortly after stage seperation at T+2:43, the Super Booster component experienced a "Rapid Unscheduled Disassembly" (RUD). At T+3:21, the Booster exploded. The Starship portion continued on its planned flight with nominal telemetry. SpaceX spokespersons said they knew that the Booster "might not survive", but as this is only the second flight test, the data gathered will inform better design and procedure in the future.

While the continued flight of the Ship portion was described as nominal, after a planned Loss of Signal (LOS), the SpaceX team was unable to restore communications with the ship, which indicates it, too, experienced RUD. It is important to note that while the ship never made it to Orbit, all primary data-gathering objectives were met, and while it was intended to meet power and attitude requirements for orbit and re-entry, it was never meant to go that far. This means the launch was an overall success for SpaceX, despite complications. It is theorized that the starting and stopping of the engines put too much fluid pressure on the booster stage,resulting in its dissassembly.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.

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