SpaceX’s Starship, the world’s largest and most powerful rocket, achieved a significant milestone by successfully splashing down for a “soft landing” in the Indian Ocean. This achievement comes after several previous attempts ended in spectacular explosions.
The Fourth Attempt
Elon Musk’s company made critical upgrades to the Starship software and implemented other changes for this fourth launch. The spacecraft took off from Texas, completing a half lap around the planet. Despite challenges, including the loss of many tiles and a damaged flap, Starship managed to land gently in the ocean.
Super Heavy Booster Detachment
The first stage “Super Heavy” booster, which propelled Starship into space, detached successfully and landed in the Gulf of Mexico just three minutes after liftoff. This achievement demonstrates progress toward SpaceX’s ultimate goal of making Starship reusable.
Crucial Re-Entry and Controlled Landing
After approximately an hour of flight, Starship re-entered Earth’s atmosphere and executed a planned landing in the sea. Cheers erupted at mission control in California as the team celebrated their hard-won success.
Future Moon Missions
NASA has already ordered two Starships for upcoming moon-landing missions later this decade. Additionally, Musk’s company is actively selling tourist trips around the moon, leveraging the capabilities of this impressive spacecraft.
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