SpaceX Test Flight Succeeds with Ocean Splashdowns

SpaceX successfully conducted its sixth Starship test flight on November 19th, with both the Starship and its Super Heavy booster achieving ocean splashdowns due to unfavorable conditions. The mission, observed by US President-elect Donald Trump, marked a departure from the previous flight where the booster was caught using the launch tower's 'chopsticks' arms. The test included successful in-space engine reignition and new reentry maneuvers, testing the Starship's limits with reduced heat shield protection. This mission is a significant step toward making the Starship fully reusable for NASA's Artemis program and future Mars missions. Elon Musk announced plans for another ocean landing before attempting a catch with the launch tower, focusing on developing a robust reusable heat shield as a critical next step.