space
SpaceX conducting third mishap investigation since January 2025
By Steve Clark at MyRGV
· June 3, 2026
· 1 min read
SpaceX has landed Super Heavy boosters back at the launch site on three occasions, as well as in the Gulf of Mexico, following launch and stage separation from Starship minutes into the flight.
Super Heavy B19, the first Version 3 (V3) of the booster, did not manage a Gulf splashdown on May 22 as...
Key takeaway Super Heavy B19, the first Version 3 (V3) of the booster, did not manage a Gulf splashdown on May 22 as...
Why this matters in The Brownsville
The investigation into the Super Heavy B19 mishap has significant implications for Brownsville and the surrounding Cameron County community. As the host of SpaceX's Starbase launch site at Boca Chica, the area is heavily invested in the success of the company's operations. The grounding of further Starship-Super Heavy flights until the investigation is complete may impact local economic activity, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors, which have seen an influx of visitors drawn to the area by SpaceX's launch activities. Additionally, the Port of Brownsville, a major economic driver for the region, may also feel the effects of the suspension, as it provides support services for SpaceX's operations. The FAA's oversight of the investigation ensures that public safety remains a top priority, which is crucial for a region that is already vulnerable to natural disasters such as Gulf hurricanes and has a complex border and immigration landscape.
About this story
Original reporting by MyRGV . The Brownsville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit MyRGV . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: space ·
Published: June 3, 2026 ·
Source: MyRGV ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? SpaceX has landed Super Heavy boosters back at the launch site on three occasions, as well as in the Gulf of Mexico, following launch and stage separation from Starship minutes into the flight.
Super Heavy B19, the first Version 3 (V3) of the booster, did not manage a Gulf splashdown on May 22 as...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 3, 2026 by MyRGV and curated for The Brownsville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Steve Clark at MyRGV. To learn more about how The Brownsville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more space coverage from The Brownsville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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