SpaceX Starship Prototype Explodes During Ground Test in Texas; No Injuries Reported
A SpaceX Starship prototype exploded during a static fire test at its Texas Starbase facility on June 18, 2025, an event termed a 'major anomaly.' This occurred during preparations for its tenth flight test. SpaceX confirmed all personnel were safe and safety protocols were active. The company is investigating the incident, part of its iterative development for the advanced launch system. No injuries were reported.
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The exact cause of the explosion is still under investigation. The incident occurred while the Starship was being filled with liquid oxygen and methane for a planned engine test, and two major explosions were observed. SpaceX and local officials are working to determine the root cause of the failure.
This explosion is viewed as a major setback for the Starship program, which is critical to SpaceX’s future plans for deep space missions. The destroyed vehicle was being prepared for the tenth test flight, making this failure notable, though iterative testing and such anomalies are part of SpaceX's development approach.
No hazards to residents in nearby communities were reported. SpaceX maintained a safety clear area around the site, and authorities asked people to stay away while the area was being secured. Emergency protocols were enacted immediately, and all personnel were accounted for.
SpaceX is actively investigating the cause of the explosion and working with local officials to secure the site. The company will likely analyze the failure, improve safety measures, and prepare for future testing as part of its iterative development process. The schedule for upcoming test flights may be adjusted as a result.