SpaceX Starship IFT6: Booster catch aborted, but orbital maneuvers succeed in daylight

SpaceX's sixth Starship test flight aimed to repeat its booster landing maneuver, but technical warnings forced a change of plans. This review examines why the booster diverted to the Gulf and how the Starship vehicle successfully demonstrated engine relights and a daylight landing.

During the IFT6 mission, SpaceX intended to perform a second tower catch of the SuperHeavy booster. However, during the boostback phase, the team received alerts indicating the launch tower was not functioning as expected. Consequently, booster 13 was redirected to perform a safe landing in the Gulf of Mexico rather than attempting the catch.

Despite the booster diversion, the Starship 31 vehicle completed its primary objectives. It successfully reached space, performed an engine relight, and executed a safe landing in daylight, marking a significant step in the vehicle's development.

Source: SpaceX Fail To Repeat Booster Catch, But Starship Shows New Tricks - IFT6 Post Flight Review