SpaceX Starship Explodes on Ground Before Engine Test
Late Wednesday night, SpaceX’s Starship Ship 36 experienced a significant setback. Just before a planned static fire test at the Massey’s Testing Center in Starbase, Texas, the vehicle exploded. The incident occurred while cryogenic propellant was being loaded, moments before a six-engine static fire.
Although the explosion was dramatic, SpaceX confirmed that all personnel were safe and accounted for. Thankfully, the surrounding community was not affected. The company emphasized that a safety perimeter had been maintained, and there were no hazards to local residents.
According to a statement on SpaceX’s website, “After completing a single-engine static fire earlier this week, the vehicle was in the process of loading cryogenic propellant for a six-engine static fire when a sudden energetic event resulted in the complete loss of Starship and damage to the immediate area surrounding the stand.”
Ongoing Investigation into the Cause
While the company continues its investigation, SpaceX described the incident as a “major anomaly” on social platform X. Initial findings point to a potential failure of a composite overwrapped pressure vessel (COPV) located in the nosecone area. The pressurized tank, containing gaseous nitrogen, may have triggered the energetic event. Nevertheless, a full data review is still in progress, and a final conclusion has yet to be reached.
Fires ignited by the explosion have delayed site access. SpaceX urged the public to avoid approaching the area while safety checks and “safing” operations continue. Authorities and local media, including Fox 26 Houston, reported that no injuries occurred during the event. SpaceX reiterated that no personnel were harmed.
What’s Next for Starship Development?
The failed test was part of SpaceX’s ongoing Starship V2 program. This design, first revealed in 2023, was said to improve reliability, reduce dry mass, and hold more propellant. If successful, the test would have led into Starship’s 10th flight.
Despite recent setbacks, including explosions during the seventh, eighth, and ninth flight tests earlier this year, SpaceX remains committed to progress. In fact, Elon Musk has previously mentioned that the upcoming V3 design could enable weekly launches within 12 months. Whether this timeline holds depends on the outcome of the ongoing investigations and future test readiness.
