SpaceX coordinates with agencies after latest Starship explosion: safety and environment focus

SpaceX's latest Starship test in Texas ended abruptly when a composite overwrapped pressure vessel (COPV) failed during cryogenic propellant loading, causing a catastrophic explosion that destroyed the vehicle and damaged the test site.

The COPV, a pressurized tank containing gaseous nitrogen located in the rocket's nosecone, is distinct from those used on SpaceX's Falcon rockets, according to the company.

"Initial analysis indicates the failure of a composite overwrapped pressure vessel (COPV) took it all down," SpaceX said in a news release.

Despite the severity of the blast, "there are no reported injuries, and all personnel are safe and accounted for," the company confirmed.

The explosion also ignited several fires around the test stand, causing damage to the immediate area.

SpaceX is actively coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies to address environmental and safety concerns stemming from the incident.

This event marks the latest setback for Starship upper stages, with the vehicle—also known as Ship—having been lost in the last three flight tests conducted in January, March, and May of this year.

The test was part of preparations for Starship's 10th flight test, following a successful single-engine static fire earlier in the week. The failure occurred during the loading process for a six-engine static fire.

SpaceX's ongoing efforts to refine Starship's design and safety protocols continue amid these challenges, underscoring the complexities of developing next-generation space vehicles.

SpaceX's latest Starship test in Texas ended in an explosion caused by a composite overwrapped pressure vessel failure during cryogenic propellant loading. The blast destroyed the vehicle and damaged the test site, but no injuries were reported. SpaceX is working with agencies on safety and environmental concerns.