SpaceX Launches 20 Satellites With Starship Rocket

SpaceX has successfully completed the 13th test flight of its Starship rocket, deploying 20 Starlink V3 satellites into orbit. The launch from the Starbase facility in Texas culminated in a soft landing in the Indian Ocean, marking a crucial success for the ambitious space program.

This latest flight represents a significant advancement after a series of previous test flights encountered difficulties. Notably, the 7th, 8th, and 9th test flights, conducted in January, March, and May 2025 respectively, ended in the rocket's disintegration. The 10th test flight was successfully completed after a delay due to weather, and the 11th flight on October 13, 2025, also proceeded without issue.

The 12th test flight, however, experienced unexpected challenges. While the rocket launched successfully, it suffered engine malfunctions during its trajectory, leading to its descent into the Indian Ocean where it unexpectedly ignited. The successful completion of the 13th flight demonstrates SpaceX's progress in overcoming these technical hurdles and moving closer to its goal of making Starship a reliable launch vehicle.