Starship reaches orbit and deploys 26 Starlink satellites
SpaceX's Starship reached orbit for the first time on its 14th test flight, deploying 26 operational Starlink V3 satellites at about 269 km after engineers compensated for an engine failure. One of three engines shut down after separation from the Super Heavy booster, prompting a midflight plan change, but the craft used remaining engines to achieve orbit. The Super Heavy booster returned and performed a controlled splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico, while the upper stage returned over the Pacific and was not recovered. The mission proves orbital capability and revenue potential but highlights ongoing engine and recovery challenges.
Starship reached orbit and deployed 26 operational Starlink satellites.
Context
The programme had 13 earlier flights that stayed suborbital since 2023. SpaceX has spent…
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