SpaceX Starship Explodes During Engine Test Ahead of 10th Flight (Image: SpaceX) A loud blast echoed over South Texas skies this week. What was meant to be a routine engine check turned into a dramatic setback for SpaceX’s flagship rocket project. Major Anomaly Strikes at Starbase Facility Story continues below Advertisement Remove Ad SpaceX confirmed that its latest Starship prototype exploded late on 19 June during a pre-test phase. The vehicle suffered a “major anomaly” while undergoing trials at the company’s Starbase site near Boca Chica. The upper-stage Starship was preparing for its 10th flight test when the failure occurred. All personnel were reported safe, and safety measures around the site were active. The incident caused damage to the test stand and surrounding area, but there were no hazards for nearby communities. SpaceX urged the public to avoid approaching the site while they continue safety operations in coordination with local officials. The company noted that toxicity tests of materials used in Starship confirmed no environmental or biological risk. SpaceX said it is working closely with local, state, and federal agencies to manage any impact from the explosion. On Wednesday, June 18 at approximately 11 p.m. CT, the Starship preparing for the tenth flight test experienced a major anomaly while on a test stand at Starbase. A safety clear area around the site was maintained throughout the operation and all personnel are safe and accounted… Related stories A 'new star' has exploded into night sky and is visible to the naked eye — here’s how you can se...