New updates have been reported about SpaceX (PC:SPXEX)
Claim 50% Off TipRanks Premium and Invest with Confidence
- Unlock hedge-fund level data and powerful investing tools designed to help you make smarter, sharper decisions
- Stay ahead of the market with the latest news and analysis so your portfolio is always positioned for maximum potential
SpaceX encountered a significant setback during the testing of its upgraded Starship rocket booster, known as Starship V3, at its South Texas facility. Early Friday morning, an explosion occurred during gas system pressure testing, damaging the lower section of the booster. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as the area was cleared for testing. This incident marks a critical moment for SpaceX, as the Starship V3 is designed to be larger, more powerful, and capable of docking with other Starships in orbit, a key component of the company’s ambitious plans for lunar and Martian missions.
The explosion raises concerns about potential delays in SpaceX’s testing program, which could impact its strategic timeline. The company aims for a busy 2026, including demonstrating in-orbit fuel transfer capabilities, a prerequisite for NASA’s crewed moon missions targeted for 2028. However, NASA’s acting administrator, Sean Duffy, has expressed dissatisfaction with SpaceX’s progress, suggesting that Blue Origin might be considered for the contract if delays persist. As SpaceX investigates the cause of the explosion, the pressure mounts to maintain its competitive edge, especially with Blue Origin advancing its own rocket development efforts.