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[TECHNOLOGY] · United States · 66 sources

SpaceX Starship test flight aborts as engine failure stalls launch

SpaceX attempted the 13th test flight of its Starship V3 launch system from Starbase in Texas on 16 July 2026. Seconds before liftoff, four of the 33 Raptor engines on the Super Heavy booster failed to ignite, triggering the vehicle’s automated abort system. The rocket remained secured to the pad; propellant was off‑loaded and the mission was scrubbed.

The flight was to carry 20 new Starlink V3 satellites and test thermal‑shield upgrades, stage separation and splash‑down procedures. The FAA had cleared the launch after a review of the May test, which saw a partial booster re‑entry failure.

The abort caused SpaceX’s share price to plunge about $100 billion, falling below the $135 IPO price for the first time. CEO Elon Musk said two faulty Raptor engines will be replaced and a new launch attempt is expected early next week. The event impacts NASA’s Artemis lunar plans, which rely on Starship, and highlights the challenges of the $15 billion development program.

Sources

Lancement Starship : Prochain direct [www.agences-spatiales.fr]
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