SpaceX launches massive Starship V3 rocket on test flight

SpaceX successfully launched the debut test flight of its upgraded Starship V3 megarocket on Friday, blasting off from the company's Starbase facility in South Texas. The mega rocket completed most of its major test objectives, including in-space payload deployment, before performing a fiery, controlled splashdown in the Indian Ocean.

This test marked the 12th Starship mission overall and the very first for the upgraded Version 3 mega rocket. Despite additional engine malfunctions, the spacecraft successfully flipped upright and performed a soft splashdown in the pre-planned zone in the Indian Ocean.