SpaceX Founder reacts on Starship explosion, revealed potential cause behind anomaly

SpaceX founder and CEO, Elon Musk, shared his first reaction on the Starship explosion at Starbase, Texas, and revealed a reason behind this major anomaly.

The preliminary data suggests that a nitrogen COPV in the payload bay failed below its proof pressure and caused the explosion, Musk wrote on X.

A composite overwrapped pressure vessel (COPV) is a pressure vessel used to store gases under high pressure. It is made of a thin, non-structural liner, wrapped with a structural fiber composite, such as carbon fiber, to provide strength and durability. The composite overwrap is placed to contain pressure, and the liner prevents gas leakage.

On the other hand, the proof pressure is a critical specification for pressure vessels and sensors. It shows the maximum pressure that can be applied to the vessel without causing permanent damage or affecting its performance beyond the maximum limit. After being exposed to proof pressure, the vessel should return to its original state and function normally. The purpose of proof pressure testing is to ensure the vessel can handle temporary overpressurization without failing.

In contrast, the nitrogen COPV likely triggered the decompression (explosion) and led to Rapid Unscheduled Disassembly (RUD). Furthermore, the explosion also highlights the challenge of the COPV manufacturing process and its inclusion in the rocket design.

SpaceX Founder and CEO, Elon Musk, reacted to the Starship explosion at Starbase, Texas

First time

The SpaceX chief mentioned that this is the first time that the rocket exploded for this reason. However, it’s not the first time for SpaceX rockets; in 2016, Falcon 9 also exploded due to COPV failures, specifically through the accumulation of frozen solid oxygen between the liner and composite overwrap. So, the company already has experience with the issue, and it will be addressed soon in the new vehicle.

However, this event could significantly delay the Flight 10 launch due to the investigation, new ship modifications, followed by testing.

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