Elon Musk doesn’t seem bothered about his company’s latest failed spacecraft launch. On Thursday, Space X tested the launch of Starship — its new generation rocket — for the seventh time. Unfortunately, the mission ended in destruction.
Following a deployment from Texas on Thursday, the spacecraft’s capsule exploded less than ten minutes into the air, resulting in a bright, fiery display resembling a meteor shower. Bystanders in Turks and Caicos captured the dramatic blowup in a viral video on the billionaire’s platform, X.
Pieces of the rocket were seen falling to earth, forming an orange ball of light, as witnesses exclaimed in the background. “It’s about to fall on top of us,” a man says in the video’s background. “Oh my God! What is this? Are we gonna f**king die?” another concerned voice echoed.
In a statement, Space X confirmed the failed launch. “Starship experienced a rapid unscheduled disassembly during its ascent burn. Teams will continue to review data from today’s flight test to better understand root cause,” it read. Despite the severity of the situation, Musk made light of his rocket’s explosion on X. Reposting the viral video, he wrote:
“Success is uncertain, but entertainment is guaranteed!”
Elon Musk Blasted on Wasting Taxpayer’s Money On Rocket Launches
While trial and error is often a part of space travel, fans online are not pleased by Space X’s latest failed mission. Their anger is directed at CEO Elon Musk for his nonchalant response.
“Musk blew up US taxpayer-funded contract dollars! That’s NOT entertainment! Bordering on FRAUD,” one fan slammed.
“I can’t believe the world is letting this demented technocrat use the planet as his personal plaything,” another harsh comment read.
“Display of incompetence is exactly what it is,” a third fan penned. “Expect this form of Idioticracy for the next 4 years. He’s a fraud, plain and simple.”
“Someone needs to check his ego!! This man is a threat to America,” this user warned.
“Wrecking the earth and puncturing the atmosphere is entertainment of a pure psycho,” a follower added.
“Success is uncertain, but it’s taxpayers’ money. Entertaining AF,” a sixth comment read.
Space X officials said problems developed after lift-off caused the upper stage. However, it wasn’t a complete failure as the Super Heavy booster returned to its launchpad, BBC reports. Musk himself gave a closer insight into the explosion, citing “an oxygen/fuel leak.” He promised “improved versions” of the ship and booster while hinting at a possible eighth try next month.
Luckily, the spacecraft was uncrewed so the damage is manageable.
