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Spaceship fireworks
SpaceX ignited the three rocket engines of its Starship SN8 prototype for the second time last night at its test facilities in Boca Chica, Texas.
The event was a powerful explosion of orange smoke and flying sparks, as captured by viewers on video.
Static fire
SN8 also became the first ever prototype spaceship to complete a static fire test with a nose pad. Its first static fire test with three Raptor engines on October 20 did not feature the stainless steel dome.
The event was the second of several upcoming static fire tests that resulted in the prototype’s planned test flight at an altitude of nine miles or 50,000 feet. Although the static fire test was a success, it is still unclear when the SN8 will take flight.
Videos from last night’s test show sparks flying after ignition. SN8 survived the event, but we have yet to find out what caused the fireworks. Insiders suggest they could be pieces of the platform itself, like Teslarati relationships.
Stacking of rockets
The spaceship, standing on its own for 165 feet, will eventually make its way into space with the help of a huge Super Heavy booster – another 230 feet tall – which will feature around 30 rocket engines. The company led by Elon Musk has already laid the foundations for the construction of the first booster prototype.
READ MORE: SpaceX’s Starship SN8 prototype fires its engines for the second time [Space.com]
More on Starship: The test flight of the spaceship at 50,000 feet could take place as early as next week
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