SpaceX Targets Next Week for Starship Launch After Last-Minute Abort Sends Shares Lower

Post by : Saif

SpaceX is preparing for another Starship launch attempt as early as next week after a last-second abort halted the rocket's 13th test flight during engine ignition. The setback briefly erased nearly $100 billion from the company's market value as investors reacted to the failed launch attempt.

The launch was scheduled from Starbase, Texas, but the rocket never left the launch pad after an automated system detected an issue during engine startup.

Engine Problem Forced Launch Abort

According to SpaceX, four of the 33 Raptor engines on the Super Heavy booster failed to ignite, prompting the onboard system to automatically cancel the launch seconds before liftoff.

SpaceX founder Elon Musk said the company plans to replace two Raptor engines before making another launch attempt to improve the chances of a successful mission.

He added that the next launch could take place early next week, with the company targeting Monday if technical checks are completed.

SpaceX Shares Decline After Setback

The aborted launch had an immediate impact on investor sentiment.

SpaceX shares fell around 6%, dropping to $124.30, wiping out approximately $100 billion in market value. The decline came after the stock had already been trading below its initial public offering (IPO) price.

Despite the market reaction, investors and industry analysts described the delay as a normal part of SpaceX's testing strategy.

Read more: NASA and SpaceX Set January 14 Target for Crew-11’s Return to Earth

Starship to Carry Starlink Satellites

The upcoming mission will be Starship's 13th test flight and is expected to carry 20 Starlink satellites.

The flight will test the rocket's satellite deployment system and Starlink's laser communication technology. However, the satellites are not expected to remain in orbit and will burn up in Earth's atmosphere after completing the demonstration.

Starship Central to SpaceX's Future Plans

Starship remains the centerpiece of SpaceX's long-term ambitions. The company plans to use the fully reusable rocket for future Starlink deployments, deep-space missions, lunar exploration and eventually missions to Mars.

SpaceX aims to begin regular Starlink launches using Starship before the end of the year and is also planning the rocket's first launch from Florida later in 2026.

Testing Continues Despite Delays

SpaceX has conducted 12 previous Starship test flights since 2023, with several ending in explosions or technical failures. The company follows a rapid testing approach that focuses on identifying problems during development and improving the rocket through repeated test missions.

Officials say replacing the affected engines is a precautionary measure intended to ensure a safer and more reliable launch during the next attempt.

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