SpaceX Starship Deploys Satellites in Space During Key Test

SpaceX's Starship rocket after lifting off from Starbase, Texas, on Aug. 26.

Photographer: Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP/Getty Images

SpaceX’s Starship rocket launched to space and deployed satellites for the first time before surviving most of its journey to Earth, achieving new technological milestones after a year of fiery setbacks.

The mission secured a much-needed win for the Elon Musk-led company after flight test struggles raised questions about whether Starship will be able to fulfill the billionaire’s aims.