On Thursday, SpaceX launched its largest rocket from Boca Chica, Texas. The unmanned Starship spacecraft, intended to carry people to Mars, exploded mid-flight.
Residents and academics are hurrying to examine the explosion’s effects on local communities, their health, habitat, and animals, including endangered species. Launched sand- and ash-like particle matter and heavier debris are of greatest concern. Particulate emissions exceeded the debris field.
After the explosion, the FAA suspended the company’s Starship Super Heavy launch program pending a “mishap investigation,” as is customary practice. Friday saw no official reports of injuries or public property damage.
SpaceX did not respond.
