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SpaceX Starship spacecraft exploded mid-flight, after its takeoff at 5:30 p.m. from South Texas. No signs of destruction or any harm have been noted. Read this article to know more about the explosion, the space debris it created, and its impact on nature.
SpaceX’s Starship Spacecraft Explodes: What Happened?
SpaceX stated that the Starship failed because of an “energetic event” in the rear portion of the vehicle during its launch. This tragedy has led to the loss of multiple Raptor engines, which led to a loss of height control, that means the scapecraft couldn’t maintain its proper orientation. When the starship has taken off after 9 minutes and 30 seconds, communication is lost due to the loss of control at the altitude. However, SpaceX will surely analyze flight data to determine the source of the tragedy.
The privatization in space projects has opened doors for innovation, reduced costs, and has accelerated space exploration. On the other hand, there are concerns like space debris and commercial monopolization. A balanced approach between the private firms and the government can maximise benefits and reduce risks in the space industry.
How Many SpaceX Starships Have Exploded?
This is the eighth time SpaceX’s spacecraft has failed, and this year it is the second time after January’s trial. Within minutes after takeoff, SpaceX lost communication with the Starship. Experiencing the same “rapid unscheduled disassembly” as of the January explosion.
Impact Of Debris In Space
Space debris is the junk floating in space. It consists of parts of old satellites, broken rockets, and pieces from explosions and crashes. These objects move at extremely high speeds and can damage satellites, space stations, or even put astronauts at risk. A tiny piece of debris in space, even the size of a pebble, could hit with the force of a bullet. When a large amount of debris accumulates in space, it is likely to cause more crashes, creating more debris. This is called Kessler Syndrome.
Reducing the debris from space:
Active debris removal: Developing concepts like space nets, harpoons, and lasers to capture or remove debris from orbits.
Spacecraft design considerations: Engineers could add a protective shield to absorb hits from tiny debris. Or satellites should be designed to burn up in the atmosphere at the end of life.
Space traffic management: Space agencies like NASA and ESA could monitor the movements of debris by using radars and telescopes, or by adjusting a spacecraft’s path to avoid hitting debris.
However, the SpaceX spacecraft hasn’t taken off to space, it just exploded within seconds, and all of its debris has shattered in South Florida and the Bahamas, causing no harm or destruction.
Conclusion
Starship’s explosion is a major setback to Elon Musk’s space flight program. Since it was their second attempt, the company will surely look forward to redesigning their flaps, computers, and fuel systems and working on their failure. However, no injuries or damage have happened. The venture will investigate the explosion and will make improvements for future projects.
FAQs
Who is the owner of SpaceX and when was it formed?
Elon Musk owns SpaceA, which was formed in 2002.
What went wrong with SpaceX Starship?
SpaceX Starship had an energetic event in the aft section, which resulted in multiple engine failures.
Why is SpaceX Starship so cheap?
SpaceX manufactures everything in-house, cutting costs for high prices and external suppliers.
