SpaceX launched the seventh test flight of its Starship rocket but lost communication with the upper stage that continues into space. The rocket’s booster successfully landed back at the launch site, but the payload of 10 Starlink simulators intended for deployment in space was lost due to communication failure. The Starship rocket is crucial to SpaceX’s plans, as it is both the tallest and most powerful rocket ever launched. The rocket system is designed to be fully reusable and can carry cargo and people beyond Earth. The latest launch featured a second-generation version of the Starship vehicle with significant upgrades, including improved propulsion systems and a reinforced heat shield. Despite the communication setback, SpaceX continues to push development by assessing additional capabilities of the Starship rocket with each flight. The ultimate goal is to use Starship for NASA’s Artemis moon program, as the rocket won a multibillion-dollar contract to serve as a crewed lunar lander for the agency. SpaceX has flown the full Starship rocket system on six spaceflight tests since April 2023, steadily increasing its capabilities with each launch.
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SpaceX launches Starship rocket to test satellite deployment techniques
