SpaceX Starship clears major hurdles in latest test flight, pushing closer to orbital missions

SpaceX’s Starship cleared major hurdles in its latest test flight, bringing the program closer to orbital missions. The update centers on a flight launched from Starbase, Texas, where engineers reportedly overcame obstacles that had previously led to in-flight breakups. During the mission, the upper-stage spacecraft survived atmospheric reentry heat, a phase that had caused structural failure in earlier attempts, and the descent produced data on heat-shield performance. Starship also completed an engine relight once in space, demonstrating maneuvering capability and altitude control. SpaceX said demonstrating controlled relight while in orbit helps regulators, including the FAA, evaluate the company’s ability to execute splashdowns away from populated land. The success supports Space Coast preparations for frequent heavy-lift launches from Florida, with construction continuing at Kennedy Space Center Launch Complex 39A.