In November 2025, an incident occurred at SpaceX’s launch complex: the first stage of Super Heavy Booster 18 sustained significant damage. Despite this, the company has not adjusted its ambitious plans for developing the super-heavy rocket and continues to upgrade its key components.
The engineering team has already begun preparing the next booster, which is scheduled to be installed on the launch pad in December. This will allow SpaceX to maintain its previously approved testing schedule despite the recent setbacks.
Starship V3: new technologies and launch timeline
SpaceX has officially confirmed that the first launch of the upgraded Starship V3 is still slated for early 2026. The company notes that work to modernize the ship and ground infrastructure is progressing according to plan.
Starship V3 features not only structural upgrades over previous versions but also enhanced reliability. In the coming months, engineers will focus on testing new systems to ensure the success of upcoming flight trials.
Plans for the near future and long-term prospects
This year, SpaceX has already completed its eleventh successful Starship flight—a major milestone for the program. The next step is deploying the V3 version, which is expected to become the backbone of future missions, including flights to Mars.
The company expects that after completing all necessary tests, Starship V3 will be able to carry out not only orbital, but also interplanetary missions. An intensive flight campaign is set to begin soon, which will allow all the declared capabilities of the new version to be thoroughly tested.
Technological Challenges and SpaceX’s Response
The damage to Booster 18 was a serious test for the team, but SpaceX specialists quickly assessed the situation and took action to address the consequences. The company emphasizes that such incidents are part of the complex process of developing new space technologies.
The recovery and investigation of the accident made it possible to introduce additional improvements to the booster and spacecraft design. This will enhance the safety and efficiency of future launches and accelerate the adoption of innovations in mass production.
In case you didn’t know: What is SpaceX and why is Starship important?
SpaceX is a private aerospace company founded by Elon Musk in 2002. Over two decades, it has become a leader in the global space industry, implementing projects like Falcon 1, Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, and Dragon. SpaceX’s main goal is to make spaceflight accessible and prepare humanity for interplanetary travel.
Starship is the company’s latest development—a fully reusable transportation system designed to deliver cargo and people to orbit, the Moon, and Mars. The project consists of two stages: the Super Heavy booster and the Starship spacecraft. In the future, this system is expected to replace all previous SpaceX rockets and become the foundation for deep space exploration.
Elon Musk has repeatedly stated his intention to send the first crewed missions to Mars aboard Starship. To achieve this, the company’s engineers are constantly improving the design, introducing new materials and technologies. Every launch and test brings SpaceX closer to accomplishing this ambitious goal.
Today, SpaceX actively collaborates with NASA and other international organizations, participating in lunar exploration programs and the creation of a moon base. Starship is seen as a key element for future expeditions, commercial launches, and the growth of space tourism.
The company is known for its innovative approach, rapid implementation of new solutions, and its ability to quickly respond to emergencies. This has allowed SpaceX to maintain its leadership in the industry and shape the future of global space exploration.
