SpaceX launched the largest rocket in the world

SpaceX conducted the 12th test launch of the Starship rocket, marking the first flight of the V3 version and the first in seven months. The launch was performed from a new launch pad. During the initial phase, all 33 Super Heavy engines successfully ignited; however, one engine failure was recorded during ascent, which did not affect the continuation of the mission. Stage separation proceeded normally, after which deviations in the booster's operation began.

The Super Heavy heavy-lift stage failed to execute the planned return maneuver: some engines did not activate, while others were shut down, causing the booster to deviate from its calculated trajectory and re-enter the atmosphere at high speed. After a brief engine restart, it completed its flight by crashing into the ocean.

The Starship spacecraft, Ship 39, also encountered technical deviations: one of the vacuum engines shut down shortly after launch. To compensate, engineers increased the burn time of the remaining engines, which allowed them to maintain the planned trajectory but resulted in the cancellation of one of the planned spaceborne engine ignitions.

Despite the issues, part of the mission's key objectives was achieved. Starlink satellite mockups were successfully deployed, external video footage of Starship in space was captured for the first time, and the spacecraft's thermal protection system was tested. Re-entry proceeded largely as planned: the structure withstood the stress despite partial loss of thermal protection tiles.

During the final stage, Ship 39 performed a landing maneuver using two of its three engines and achieved a splashdown in the designated zone. However, shortly after touching the surface, the spacecraft lost stability and broke apart.

Overall, the first test flight of Starship V3 can be considered partially successful: main demonstration tasks were completed, but identified problems with the booster and propulsion system indicate the need for further refinement before future missions.

Source: infocity.tech