SpaceX Starship V3 Achieves Key Milestones in First Test Flight
SpaceX Starship V3's first test flight was largely successful
Image: Engadget
SpaceX successfully conducted the first test flight of its Starship V3 on May 22, 2026, despite losing some engines. The launch vehicle achieved most of its objectives, including deploying Starlink satellites and gathering critical data for future missions.
- 01The Starship V3 launched from Starbase, Texas, at 6:30 PM Eastern time with all 33 Raptor 3 engines ignited.
- 02One engine failure occurred during ascent, but the upper-stage Ship successfully deployed 20 Starlink simulators and two modified satellites.
- 03The booster performed a directional flip maneuver but failed to complete a successful boostback burn, crashing into the Gulf of Mexico.
- 04The upper stage gathered data on its heat shield performance during re-entry and executed a landing flip before splashing down in the Indian Ocean.
- 05Elon Musk praised the team for their efforts, stating they achieved a significant milestone for humanity.
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On May 22, 2026, SpaceX launched its Starship V3 for the first time from Starbase, Texas, at 6:30 PM Eastern time. The launch vehicle successfully ignited all 33 Raptor 3 engines, although one engine shut down during ascent. Despite this setback, the upper-stage Ship achieved its planned trajectory, deploying 20 Starlink simulators and two modified satellites that captured images of the spacecraft in space. The booster performed a directional flip maneuver but could not complete a successful boostback burn, resulting in its crash into the Gulf of Mexico. Meanwhile, the upper stage gathered valuable data on its heat shield during re-entry and executed a landing flip before splashing down in the Indian Ocean. Elon Musk celebrated the test flight, calling it an 'epic' achievement and a significant step for humanity. This successful test comes as SpaceX prepares for its initial public offering (IPO), with shares expected to trade starting June 12.
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The successful test flight of Starship V3 indicates progress in SpaceX's plans for space exploration, potentially leading to advancements in technology and job creation in the aerospace sector.
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