SpaceX aborted the launch of its Starship prototype rocket just 1.3 seconds before liftoff Tuesday. Launch personnel said it was aborted because of engine issues detected by automated systems.
The company said it would stand down for now and reset the launch. SpaceX hopes to launch the prototype later this week depending on favorable "launch opportunities."
The prototype, called the Starship Serial No. 8, or SN8, will fly 12.5 kilometers high and then return to Earth.
The test will assess components including reentry capabilities and engine firing systems. It will also do the first landing flip maneuver.
"This suborbital flight is designed to test a number of objectives, from how the vehicle's three Raptor engines perform to the overall aerodynamic entry capabilities of the vehicle to how the vehicle manages propellant transition," SpaceX said in a statement.
SpaceX chief executive officer Elon Musk said the tests were difficult. In a Twitter post Musk said much was needed to go right for the ship to reach its designated altitude and land safely. He estimated the chances of success were "maybe one in three."
The company's goal for the final version of the Starship will be to safely launch cargo and people to the moon and Mars.
