SpaceX had another accident – Super Heavy rocket exploded during test at launch pad [UPDATED]

During a static test of the Super Heavy launch vehicle at the Starbase launch site in Texas, a major accident occurred - the rocket exploded, creating a huge fireball. The event occurred at approximately 23:01 local time and 07:01 Kyiv time.

According to the Brownsville Fire Department, large-scale fires have broken out at the test site. Firefighters are still battling the blaze, more than an hour after it started. There are no reports of injuries at this time.

We will also recall that in late May 2025, SpaceX lost its Starship and Super Heavy launch vehicle during its ninth test launch. The team reported at the time that the launch provided important data for further design and software improvements.

SpaceX representatives have not yet provided an official comment, but the company has viewed previous similar incidents as important experimental lessons on the path to creating fully reusable space systems.

ADDED:

SpaceX commented on the incident.

"On Wednesday, June 18 at approximately 11 p.m. CT, the Starship preparing for the tenth flight test experienced a major anomaly while on a test stand at Starbase. A safety clear area around the site was maintained throughout the operation and all personnel are safe and accounted for. Our Starbase team is actively working to safe the test site and the immediate surrounding area in conjunction with local officials. There are no hazards to residents in surrounding communities, and we ask that individuals do not attempt to approach the area while safing operations continue," the statement said.