SpaceX launches Starship rocket but aborts booster catch attempt

SpaceX launched its Starship rocket on Tuesday but did not attempt to catch the booster with mechanical arms, directing it instead to splash down in the Gulf of Mexico. This decision came four minutes into the flight due to unmet criteria for the catch. The Starship spacecraft completed a flight path similar to last month’s test, aiming for a controlled descent in the Indian Ocean. New objectives included igniting an engine in space and testing thermal protection systems. This launch marks the sixth for Starship since 2023, with previous attempts resulting in explosions. SpaceX continues to develop the rocket for future missions to the moon and Mars, supported by NASA's $4 billion contract.