Get ready for an epic journey as we dive into the latest SpaceX Starship launch! A charred spacecraft's triumphant return is a sight to behold, and we've got the exclusive footage to prove it.
This week's Starship launch was a thrilling spectacle, and the new video showcases its final moments before a dramatic splashdown in the Indian Ocean. But here's where it gets controversial...
On Monday, October 13th, Starship embarked on its eleventh test flight, marking the final launch of the current 397-foot-tall version. A taller variant is already on the horizon, set to debut on Starship flight 12.
Flight Test 11 was a resounding success, building on the achievements of its predecessor. SpaceX's latest footage highlights the vehicle's resilience, with significantly less damage compared to Flight 10. The spacecraft's heatshield remained largely intact, a testament to its advanced engineering.
All mission goals were met, from launch to booster descent and splashdown. It was a remarkable display of precision and control, especially considering the challenges of atmospheric re-entry.
And this is the part most people miss: the spacecraft's innovative landing maneuver. SpaceX's cameras, mounted on drones and buoys, captured the descent in stunning detail. The video showcases Starship's unique flip-and-burn technique, transitioning from a bellyflop position to an upright orientation, a true engineering marvel.
But here's the twist: this week's launch deviated from the previous mission profile. The upper stage's landing burn was tailored to mimic the approach needed for a return to the launch site, where the rocket's tower awaits to catch and secure Starship.
So, what's next for SpaceX and Starship? With each successful test, the rocket's development takes a giant leap forward.
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Written by Josh Dinner, our Staff Writer for Spaceflight at Space.com. Josh is a passionate writer and photographer, dedicated to covering the latest in space exploration and NASA missions.
Follow Josh on X for his unique haiku-style posts, and check out his launch photography on Instagram and his website.
