SpaceX's Starship Prototype Accidentally Blasts Off Into Orbit

Boca Chica, Texas December 25, 2020 - Christmas ended in disaster today when one of SpaceX's experimental Starship prototypes accidentally launched into orbit. "Starhopper No. 3 was undergoing a static fire test of its Raptor engine when it unexpectedly lifted off and started flying," said SpaceX CEO Elon Musk.

The wayward Starship rose to an altitude of 127 miles before SpaceX engineers could shut down its engine and send it into an ocean crash landing. Fortunately, the prototype was unmanned. However, its unexpected launch is an embarrassing setback for Musk's ambitious Starship program.

SpaceX is developing massive Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy boosters in South Texas to eventually reach space, the moon, Mars and beyond. But the program has faced delays and obstacles, including problems with the Raptor engine and challenges keeping prototypes grounded during testing.

"Air pressure builds up really fast, and the valves didn't open quick enough," Musk said of the accident. "We didn't expect the thing to actually lift off - we thought the valves would work." The launch of Starhopper No. 3 was planned to demonstrate the engine's ability to throttle and restart in flight.

Instead, the prototype and its single Raptor engine went rogue for over two hours, drifting as far as 150 miles downrange before controllers could regain control from the ground and steer it into the ocean. Though damaged from its unguided tour of space, Musk said the prototype transmission and other data recorded during flight will provide valuable insights.

SpaceX will undertake a thorough review of its Starship program before proceeding with additional testing. While disappointed by the setback on an otherwise joyful day, Musk remains certain that Starship and Super Heavy can achieve SpaceX's bold vision for making access to space much more affordable and routine. But critics question whether the program is proceeding too hastily. More than $1 billion in investor funds have been poured into development of the massive reusable systems.

The future of the Starship program hangs in the balance after this demonstration went wildly awry. Musk promised "several improvements" to prevent similar mishaps before the next test - if there is one.

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