Huge explosion at SpaceX facility as Starship rocket burst into flames

New Delhi (India) June 19: Elon Musk's SpaceX testing facility in Massey, Texas was shook by a huge explosion on Thursday. It seriously impacted the company's plans for the upcoming Starship launch.

The mishap happened right before Ship 36 was supposed to undergo a key static fire test, which is a last systems check before launch in which the rocket's engines are lit while the vehicle is still hooked up to the ground. The Starship prototype was severely damaged in the accident and SpaceX was forced to postpone all launch preparations temporarily.

SpaceX said, "On Wednesday, June 18 at approximately 11 p.m. CT, the Starship preparing for the tenth flight test experienced a major anomaly while on a test stand at Starbase. A safety clear area around the site was maintained throughout the operation, and all personnel are safe and accounted for. Our Starbase team is actively working to save the test site and the immediate surrounding area in conjunction with local officials. There are no hazards to residents in surrounding communities” in a statement.

During a normal test, the rocket was observed bursting into a huge ball of fire. A startling video from the site shows the Starship 36 rocket's nose exploding while it was doing a static fire test at Elon Musk's Starbase location. The screen briefly flashed white due to the blast. As the light went out, thick black smoke soared into the night sky and a massive fireball spread across the earth.

SpaceX confirmed to the fact that a safety perimeter had been upheld during the operation and that every employee was present and safe. The test location and its surrounding area are currently being secured by the company's Starbase team in partnership with local authorities. According to SpaceX, there are no risks to the local population. According to ValleyCentral, Residents have stated that the huge explosion shattered dishes and shook windows.

When the City of Port Isabel informed locals that SpaceX had a problem during testing, firefighters hurried to the area. According to KRGV, officials stated they are monitoring the situation.

SpaceX will make any required improvements prior to attempting another launch, and is collaborating with federal officials to identify the cause of the most recent explosion. Engineers are still evaluating the damage and safety procedures, therefore the next Starship flight date is yet unknown.

The explosion highlights the dangers of creating new space technology, but SpaceX is adamant that Starship's eventual success would transform space travel by providing totally reusable rockets that can transport people and goods far beyond Earth.

This most recent setback continues SpaceX's Starship program's run of high-profile 2025 setbacks.

Two Starship test flights earlier this year ended in explosions minutes after takeoff; one vehicle exploded over the Caribbean, while another rotated uncontrollably before exploding over the Atlantic Ocean.

The Federal Aviation Administration has conducted investigations after every incident, which have resulted in extensive safety evaluations and temporary restrictions of airspace.

Aadrika Tayal