SpaceX's next-generation mega rocket, known as Starship, successfully launched on a key test flight on Thursday morning. This test flight aimed to demonstrate new technologies and techniques that will be crucial for future missions to the moon and beyond. It was the rocket's third and most ambitious test, marking an important milestone for SpaceX.

Illustration: makebigchange.org

During the test flight, the Starship rocket reached orbit and then re-entered Earth's atmosphere for the first time, which were two major milestones. This marked the furthest and fastest that Starship has ever flown, according to SpaceX officials. However, data suggests that the spacecraft was lost during its return to Earth, failing to reach the intended splashdown in the Indian Ocean.

After the test flight, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that it was investigating a "mishap" involving the Starship vehicle and its first-stage booster, known as Super Heavy. The FAA will oversee the mishap investigation to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. SpaceX will need to take any corrective actions identified by the FAA before Starship can fly again.

Despite the setback, SpaceX considered it a "phenomenal day." The test flight aimed to demonstrate various processes and capabilities, including opening and closing the payload door and transferring propellant between tanks in orbit. Post-flight data analysis will determine if these objectives were achieved. The test flight also paved the way for future satellite deployment missions and NASA's Artemis program for moon missions. NASA has selected Starship to carry astronauts to the lunar surface in the upcoming Artemis III mission.