SpaceX Starship megarocket hits key milestones in ‘Lucky 13’ test flight as big hurdles loom - CNN

What the report says

CNN reported that SpaceX’s Starship megarocket completed its 13th integrated test flight after a launch attempt the previous week was halted when multiple engines did not ignite. The mission, known as Flight 13, was the second outing for the upgraded V3 Starship prototype and produced a notably stronger result than its first test in May, when engine problems limited performance.

According to CNN, the Super Heavy booster lifted off with all 33 engines firing and separated from the Starship spacecraft about two minutes into flight. The booster later conducted a controlled splashdown in the Gulf, though SpaceX said it was moving faster than desired near touchdown. The upper Starship vehicle continued through its planned flight profile, reignited an engine in space, deployed 20 Starlink test satellites and ended with a controlled splashdown in the Indian Ocean about an hour after launch. SpaceX said it made contact with all 20 satellites, which were intended to reenter rather than remain in orbit.

CNN described the mission as a major step forward for Starship V3, while noting that difficult development milestones remain. SpaceX still needs to demonstrate orbital operations and in-space refueling, capabilities considered important for NASA’s plan to use Starship in a future lunar landing architecture.

The test also carried business and programmatic significance. CNN reported that it was SpaceX’s first Starship flight as a publicly traded company, following a selloff after the aborted launch attempt. The company also faces pressure tied to a planned NASA test flight next year that could support preparations for a later astronaut moon landing.