SpaceX has released its first official update following the anomaly involving Starship V3 Booster 18 early Friday morning. The incident occurred during gas-system pressure testing at the company’s Massey test facility in Starbase, Texas. Although the booster suffered visible structural damage, SpaceX confirmed that the test was designed to keep all personnel safe and involved no hazardous propellants.
SpaceX’s Initial Statement
In a post shared on its official X account, SpaceX clarified that Booster 18 was undergoing gas-system pressure tests ahead of structural proof testing when the anomaly occurred. The company emphasized that the booster had no propellant loaded, no Raptor engines installed, and that all personnel were positioned at a safe distance.
SpaceX stated:
“Booster 18 suffered an anomaly during gas system pressure testing that we were conducting in advance of structural proof testing. No propellant was on the vehicle, and engines were not yet installed. The teams need time to investigate before we are confident of the cause. No one was injured as we maintain a safe distance for personnel during this type of testing. The site remains clear and we are working plans to safely reenter the site.”
How the Incident Unfolded
Footage captured by LabPadre’s livestream showed the lower half of Booster 18 collapsing, particularly around the liquid oxygen tank area, at approximately 4:04 a.m. CT. Images from on-site observers later revealed widespread deformation across the booster’s structure, indicating that Booster 18 is likely a total loss.
The booster had rolled to the testing site only a day before the event, marking it as one of the earliest test articles in the Starship V3 upgrade series.
What Booster 18 Means for Starship V3
The Starship V3 program represents SpaceX’s next major step toward rapid-reuse technology. The V3 design includes reinforced structures and improved reliability features intended to support high-frequency testing, faster turnaround, and eventually tower-catch landings.
Elon Musk has previously expressed optimism about Starship V3, even suggesting the upgraded vehicle could support initial Mars missions. While Booster 18’s loss is a setback, it remains part of SpaceX’s fast-paced test-and-iterate approach.
As investigations continue, new V3 boosters already in production are expected to take over upcoming test milestones.
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