A SpaceX rocket prototype exploded during a test in Texas on Thursday, though no injuries were reported, according to the company and local authorities.
The incident occurred at SpaceX’s facility near Boca Chica during a static fire test of a Starship upper-stage prototype, which is designed for future deep space missions. The test involves firing the rocket’s engines while it remains secured to the ground.
Shortly after ignition, the rocket burst into flames, sending up a dramatic plume of smoke. Video footage shared online captured the moment of the explosion, but officials confirmed no one was hurt.
SpaceX acknowledged the event, stating the test was part of its ongoing development process. “The team is reviewing data and will use what we learn to improve future builds,” the company said in a brief statement.
The Starship system is central to SpaceX’s long-term plans to carry cargo and humans to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Despite Thursday’s explosion, the company has emphasized that testing often includes failures that help engineers make improvements.
Local emergency services were not required to respond, and there is no indication of damage beyond the test site.
This marks another reminder of the high-risk nature of spaceflight innovation, a process that SpaceX has openly embraced as it pushes the boundaries of aerospace technology.
