SpaceX Launches Massive Starship Rocket in First Test Flight Since IPO

SpaceX launched the massive Starship rocket in its first test flight since the company went public, according to a CNBC report. The launch marked a milestone for the vehicle’s development, demonstrating the integrated Super Heavy booster and Starship upper stage in a single ascent, as listed in the 2026 Space Launch Schedule.

Starship lifted off on July 24 2026, and a live YouTube broadcast captured the Super Heavy booster’s controlled landing after separation, confirming the re‑entry capability required for future missions to the Moon and Mars. Engineers highlighted the successful ignition of all 33 Raptor engines, as recorded by the live feed.

Falcon 9 also took off from California in a separate live stream, carrying a payload of 24 satellites, illustrating SpaceX’s continued cadence of commercial launches alongside its flagship Starship program. The mission underscored the company’s dual‑rocket strategy and was part of its 2026 launch calendar.