SpaceX’s Starship Soars Into Orbit Ater Booster Explosion Prevents and Unprecedented Double Catch
The first-stage booster was diverted into the Gulf of Mexico shortly after Friday's liftoff and exploded. But the spacecraft still soared into orbit, delivering 26 Starlink satellites
Nov. 14, 2026 (AP) – SpaceX's attempt to recover its entire Starship back at the launch pad was thwarted when the booster fell into the Gulf of Mexico and exploded Friday, but the spacecraft still soared into orbit in its boldest test yet.
Instead of returning to its Texas pad following liftoff, the first-stage booster was diverted to a point offshore. Despite the setback, the spacecraft continued on its way. It will steer toward the pad Saturday, barring further trouble. The flight could last as long as 22 hours.
