SpaceX details cause of Starship upper stage loss

SpaceX has explained the loss of the upper stage during its seventh Starship launch on January 16. The company identified a leak in the aft section of the vehicle, which caused sustained fires and led to a controlled shutdown of most engines. The issue arose from a harmonic response that was stronger than during previous tests, increasing stress on the propulsion system. This resulted in propellant leaks that exceeded the ship's venting capability. SpaceX is preparing for the eighth test flight of Starship, scheduled for this Friday. This launch is part of a series of up to 25 planned for 2025.