SpaceX’s Starship Booster Might Have Exploded Suggests Fan Theory & Alleged Leaked Image
Did SpaceX's Starship booster explode post-test?
SpaceX's Starship booster experienced a "rapid unscheduled disassembly" after the test launch, which resulted in an explosion. The upper stage of the rocket also exploded before reaching its target altitude. Despite the explosions, SpaceX considered the test flight a success, as they gathered valuable data to improve future flights.
What does the leaked image allegedly show?
The leaked image allegedly shows an explosion of SpaceX's Starship Super Heavy booster during its fourth flight test. The image displays an orange mushroom cloud visible from a buoy, which resembles the ones used by SpaceX to capture the final views of its rocket tests. A social media user's analysis suggests the explosion might have occurred after the booster tipped over at the end of its return profile, possibly due to the failure of the downcomer, a pipe that transports fuel to the engines.
How did social media react to the leaked explosion image?
Social media users were caught off guard when an alleged leaked image of an explosion, possibly involving SpaceX's Starship Super Heavy booster, was shared by user BocasBrain. Another user, TheSpaceEngineer, conducted a detailed analysis of the image, considering factors such as lighting, image distortion, and cloud formations. While some aspects could indicate a fake image, the analysis overall suggests the image might be real.