The historic test flight also saw Starship deploy 26 next-generation Starlink satellites as SpaceX pushes ahead with plans for future lunar missions.

SpaceX’s massive Starship rocket has reached Earth orbit for the first time, marking a major milestone for the company’s ambitious programme and bringing its powerful spacecraft a step closer to future Moon missions.

Starship lifted off from SpaceX’s Starbase facility in Texas on Monday, September 28, during its 14th test flight.

The nearly 10-hour mission was designed to complete about six orbits of Earth while deploying 26 next-generation Starlink V3 satellites.

The milestone came despite an engine problem during the flight.

SpaceX confirmed that one of Starship’s engines shut down during the initial burn. However, mission controllers continued with the flight after assessing the spacecraft’s condition, and Starship subsequently completed the critical burn required to enter orbit.

The mission also marked the first time Starship deployed operational Starlink satellites into orbit.

The 26 Starlink V3 spacecraft are part of a new generation of satellites designed to significantly increase the capacity and performance of SpaceX’s satellite internet network.

Meanwhile, the Super Heavy booster completed its return sequence and splashed down off the coast of Starbase.

Only 31 of its 33 engines reportedly reignited during the boost-back burn, presenting another technical challenge during the otherwise significant test flight.

The successful orbital mission represents an important step in SpaceX’s efforts to develop Starship into a fully reusable transportation system capable of carrying large payloads into orbit and supporting missions beyond Earth.

The company is also developing Starship for future NASA lunar missions, with the spacecraft expected to play a major role in planned human missions to the Moon.

The latest flight provides SpaceX with additional data on Starship’s performance, including its ability to reach orbit, deploy satellites and operate through critical phases of flight despite in-flight engine issues.

For SpaceX, the achievement moves Starship another step closer to its long-term goal of supporting a new generation of space missions, from satellite deployment to lunar exploration and, eventually, missions farther into the solar system.