Demonstration Flight Was Planned for An Altitude Of 500 Feet

SpaceX aborted a planned demonstration flight of its reusable Starhopper prototype Monday as the countdown clock ticked down to zero. The mission was planned to launch the squat test article to an altitude of 500 feet and then land gently back on the ground. But when the clock reached zero, the single Raptor engine on the Starhopper did not ignite.

Space.com reports that SpaceX CEO Elon Musk said in a tweet that the issue may have been in the igniters for the company's newest engine.  "Raptor uses dual redundant torch igniters. Better long-term, but more finicky in development," Musk wrote in a Twitter statement.

It looked like there might be a second try on Monday, but Musk later Tweeted "Igniters need to be inspected. We will try again tomorrow same time."

That would have been late Tuesday, but Wednesday was also considered to be an option.

For SpaceX operations in Texas, the Cameron County Sheriff's department has to close roads for several hours. Residents were informed about the tests, suggesting they go outside during the test in the event that windows are broken during a launch, or there is an accident or explosion.

Starhopper completed two tethered tests earlier this year, and conducted its first free flight to an altitude of about 65 feet on July 25. This test, when it happens, will be the last for this prototype, according to Musk.

(Image from file)

FMI: Source report