Elon Musk shares results of probe into SpaceX Starship explosion during engine test
SpaceX's Starship rocket exploded during a static fire test late Wednesday night at the company’s Starbase facility in Texas, casting uncertainty over plans for its 10th test flight, which was originally scheduled for June 29.
A dramatic video captured by NASA Spaceflight shows the moment a powerful explosion lit up the Texas night sky during what was intended to be a routine engine test. The blast occurred shortly after 11 p.m. MT, prompting a swift response from local authorities. Cameron County officials confirmed the incident, noting that no injuries were reported. Law enforcement has launched an investigation to determine the cause.
In a statement on X, SpaceX confirmed the explosion occurred while the rocket was still secured to the launch arm, citing a "major anomaly" but providing no specific details. The company assured the public that all personnel were safe and accounted for.
Although there’s no immediate threat to nearby communities, SpaceX advised the public to stay away from the Starbase area while cleanup efforts are underway. Environmental teams are monitoring air quality and potential safety hazards, while crews work to secure the site and assess any environmental damage.
ANOMALY! Just before Ship 36 was set to Static Fire, it blew up at SpaceX Masseys!
— NSF - NASASpaceflight.com (@NASASpaceflight) June 19, 2025
Live on X and YT:https://t.co/GPjZIX1Zyd pic.twitter.com/CfZhDeSGae
Elon Musk later addressed the incident on X. Initially calling it “just a scratch,” he later clarified that early findings suggest a "nitrogen COPV [composite overwrapped pressure vessel] in the payload bay failed below its proof pressure," leading to the explosion.
This isn’t the first time Starship has suffered a setback. The rocket exploded during its ninth test flight last month, with similar failures occurring in January and March. Out of nine launches since April 2023, only four have been deemed successful—highlighting the technical challenges SpaceX continues to face in refining Starship’s design.
Despite repeated failures, the company remains focused on its long-term goals. Starship is being developed as a fully reusable transport system for missions to the Moon and, eventually, Mars. Just last month, Musk reaffirmed SpaceX’s ambition to launch its largest version of Starship later this year, and reiterated his target of landing on Mars by 2026.