SpaceX successfully conducted the 12th test flight of its massive Starship rocket from its Starbase facility in Texas, following a previous attempt that was postponed due to technical complications. The Starship V3 mission, which launched during a 90-minute window on Friday, included the successful deployment of mock Starlink satellites into orbit. This milestone is a critical component of the company’s strategy to expand its satellite constellation and bolster its wireless internet services in high-density areas.

While the flight achieved significant milestones, including reaching speeds of Mach 7, the mission also faced technical challenges. The Superheavy booster experienced anomalies during an engine relight sequence following its separation, resulting in a loss of control in the aft section. The Starship upper stage successfully ignited two engines before performing a vertical splashdown in the Indian Ocean, where it ultimately exploded upon impact—an outcome that was anticipated during the testing phase. Although certain propulsion targets were missed, the data gathered will be vital for refining the rocket’s ability to conduct safe, reusable flights.

This flight occurs at a transformative period for SpaceX as it moves toward a massive public market debut. Following a recent IPO filing, the aerospace and defense company is expected to raise approximately $75 billion, following a valuation of $1.25 trillion after its merger with the artificial intelligence startup xAI. The Starship system remains the cornerstone of SpaceX’s future, designed to deliver 100 metric tons to orbit and supporting NASA’s mission to land astronauts on the moon by 2028.