Jerry Clayton
Appearances
NPR News Now
NPR News: 05-31-2025 6PM EDT
Starship's ninth test flight marked the first time reusing a super-heavy booster, part of its powerful rocket system. The unsuccessful test mission saw the spacecraft tumble out of control and break apart over the Indian Ocean. The booster was also lost after it exploded over the Gulf of Mexico. The FAA says the rocket is grounded until SpaceX determines the cause of the failure.
NPR News Now
NPR News: 05-31-2025 6PM EDT
Debris from both the booster and main rocket fell in pre-planned hazard areas, according to the FAA. One airline flight was diverted, another delayed. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has said he wants to accelerate Starship test flights with the ultimate aim of reaching Mars. I'm Jerry Clayton in San Antonio.