SpaceX has successfully launched its giant Starship launch vehicle into space for the fourth time. This time, the rocket took off from Boca Chica, Texas and the lower part of the launch vehicle, known as the Super Heavy booster, landed in the Gulf of Mexico in a vertical position. The controlled landing of this booster is a significant step towards SpaceX’s goal of reusing rockets in the future.
On previous test flights, the launch vehicle exploded, but this time, the Super Heavy booster landed safely while the upper part of the rocket landed in the Indian Ocean. SpaceX aims to make their rockets reusable and reliable by the end of 2026, with plans to use the Starship to take astronauts to the moon as part of NASA’s lunar program.
The company still has several test flights ahead before the Starship can carry people. Some experts suggest that at least 20 trials may be needed. Additionally, SpaceX must demonstrate the ability to land on the moon as part of Artemis lunar program before astronauts can go to lunar surface.
The successful launch and landing of Starship are significant milestones in SpaceX’s journey towards making space travel more accessible and cost-effective. It represents a step towards future space exploration and commercial spaceflight.
