Launchpad upgrades imminent after SpaceX's rocket blast pummeled site


FILE PHOTO: Rocks and other debris fly around remote cameras as SpaceX’s next-generation Starship spacecraft atop the Super Heavy rocket lifts off from the company’s Boca Chica launchpad on an uncrewed test flight before exploding near Brownsville, Texas, U.S. April 20, 2023. REUTERS/Joe Skipper

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Elon Musk's SpaceX will use for its next rocket launch a water-cooled steel plate that can withstand the world's most powerful liftoff after the debut attempt of its Starship rocket to reach space caused extensive launchpad damage.

The giant spacecraft exploded 23 miles (37 km) in the sky, minutes after liftoff in an uncrewed test flight on Thursday.

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