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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Mike Bedigan

SpaceX sets sights on moon after successful test flight

  • SpaceX's Starship mega rocket has successfully completed its first test flight, launching from the Starbase site in South Texas.
  • The spacecraft deployed a test payload of eight dummy satellites into space before splashing down as planned in the Indian Ocean.
  • This marks a significant milestone for the world's biggest and most powerful rocket, following a year of previous test failures and mishaps.
  • The Starship's Super Heavy booster also returned successfully, splashing down in the Atlantic after testing a landing-burn engine sequence.
  • SpaceX and NASA intend to use the Starship, which had no crew aboard the demo launch, to transport astronauts back to the moon later this decade and ultimately to Mars.

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