In a setback for SpaceX, a recent test of a Raptor engine ended in a fiery explosion. The Raptor engine is a critical component of the company’s Starship launch vehicle, which is being developed for deep space missions.

The explosion occurred during a static fire test, which is a ground-based test where the engine is fired while held in place. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation, but SpaceX says that it is unlikely to affect the timeline for the first Starship test flight.

The Starship launch vehicle is a massive, reusable spacecraft that is designed to carry crew and cargo to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The vehicle consists of two stages: a Super Heavy booster and a Starship upper stage. The Raptor engine is used to power both stages of the vehicle.

Despite the setback, SpaceX is still moving forward with plans for the first Starship test flight. The company is currently targeting a launch date sometime in the coming months.

This is a developing story, and we will provide more information as it becomes available.