SpaceX’s Starship completed a major test launch on August 26, successfully deploying eight dummy satellites into orbit. According to Associated Press, Starship splashed down into the Indian Ocean after a cruise of a little over an hour—just as planned. The uncrewed flight lifted off from Starbase in Texas at 6:30 pm, marking the tenth test of the world’s most powerful rocket. The launch was followed by viewers online.
The Super Heavy booster also performed a landing-burn test that splashed down in the Atlantic. SpaceX recently upgraded the booster’s fins for improved stability. This test supports NASA’s Artemis program, which plans to use Starship for future lunar missions. Elon Musk’s long-term goal remains crewed exploration of Mars.
Space exploration allows us to uncover the vast reaches of the universe and expand our understanding of the cosmos. The latest SpaceX mission finally succeeded after a series of setbacks.
But mishaps are common in space missions, and when a launch doesn’t go as planned, the environment often bears the consequences.
Click through the gallery to learn more about space missions and their environmental impact.