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Tech · November 13, 2026

SpaceX launches milestone Starship flight to demonstrate full reusability of orbit-class rocket

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SpaceX launched its 15th Starship test flight on November 13, 2026, from Boca Chica, Texas. The mission aimed to demonstrate full reusability by attempting a "double catch," where both the Super Heavy booster and the Starship upper stage would be captured by mechanical arms at the launch pad. While the Starship spacecraft successfully reached orbit, the Super Heavy booster experienced a malfunction or automatic abort that prevented its return to the pad. The booster was diverted to a splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico, where it exploded shortly before or upon hitting the water. SpaceX is scheduled to attempt the first-ever launch pad capture of the Starship upper stage on Saturday at the mission's conclusion.

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Reported by multiple outlets

  • SpaceX launched its 15th Starship test flight on November 13, 2026.
  • The launch occurred from the SpaceX Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas.
  • The mission objective was to demonstrate full reusability through a 'double catch' of the booster and spacecraft.
  • The Super Heavy booster did not return to the launch pad and instead landed in the Gulf of Mexico.
  • The Starship upper stage successfully continued its flight to orbit.
  • SpaceX plans to attempt a capture of the Starship upper stage on Saturday.

Reported by only some outlets

  • The booster exploded in a 'spectacular fireball' moments before hitting the water.
  • The booster landing in the water was the result of an automatic abort.
  • SpaceX has previously caught a Super Heavy booster during three prior test flights.
  • The mission is scheduled to last 22 hours.

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