SpaceX’s Starship created a volcano-like explosion in first launch

When SpaceX’s Starship rocket launched for the first time in 2023, it destroyed its launch pad in an explosion similar to a volcanic eruption that sent huge chunks of concrete high into the sky. Understanding the blast in detail could help us design more robust launch and landing pads for future missions to the moon and Mars.

“It was eye-opening to us that launch pads could explode so violently,” says Philip Metzger…