Texas: A massive explosion at SpaceX’s Starbase testing site in Texas destroyed a prototype Starship rocket, dealing a fresh blow to Elon Musk’s ambitious Mars programme. The blast occurred late on June 18 during final checks ahead of a static fire test for Ship 36, halting preparations for what was meant to be the tenth Starship test flight.
Although no injuries were reported, the prototype was completely damaged. Debris from the explosion was scattered across the site, forcing engineers to halt operations indefinitely.
Here's a visual from the site:
What led to the explosion?
The explosion erupted just moments before engines were to be ignited in a routine static fire test, where rockets are fired while anchored to the ground. According to an official statement posted by SpaceX on X on June 19, the test experienced a “major anomaly” at around 11:00 pm CT.
“A safety clear area around the site was maintained… and all personnel are safe and accounted for. Our Starbase team is actively working to safe the test site and the immediate surrounding area… There are no hazards to residents in surrounding communities," the company said.
Have a look at their entire statement here:
This marks yet another setback in what’s been a turbulent year for SpaceX’s Starship programme. Two test flights in 2025 have already ended in explosions over the Caribbean and Atlantic, with another vehicle disintegrating above the Indian Ocean just last month.
The now-destroyed Starship was scheduled for launch on June 29 and was set to include the first reused Super Heavy booster, reported to be a milestone meant for proving the system’s reusability. With the prototype gone and investigations underway, that launch window is no longer viable.
Still, Musk remains focused on a bigger dream of launching an uncrewed Starship to Mars in 2026, carrying humanoid Optimus robots developed by Tesla.
