https://www.vox.com/2023/4/21/23692946/spacex-starship-rocket-explosion-launch > Experts also viewed the test as a valuable way to see what works — and what doesn’t. > SpaceX seemed to experience a setback this Thursday when the inaugural test flight of its Starship rocket ended in a fiery explosion. Four minutes after it lifted off, the rocket exploded after traveling 24 miles. Multiple engines went out, according to SpaceX, leading the rocket to lose altitude and begin to tumble. After it went off course, the company forced both the rocket and the accompanying booster — which did not separate properly — to self-destruct.