SpaceX launches Starship flight test 15; booster explodes over the sea

In depth

SpaceX launched the 15th Starship flight test overnight. The booster exploded over the Gulf of Mexico, but the spacecraft reached orbit.

The spacecraft released 26 Starlink satellites. Its mission lasts about 22 hours, and at its end it will attempt to return to Texas.

Tonight an attempt is expected to bring the spacecraft back to the launch site and catch it in the tower's arms.