SpaceX Super Heavy booster 18 (v3) experienced pre-launch test anomaly

It appears that SpaceX has started very rough with the Super Heavy booster 18 (v3), as it has experienced an anomaly during pre-launch testing.

The company earlier transported this giant space rocket from the high bay to Starbase’s Massey’s test site, which was previously blown away during Starship’s upper stage’s static fire in preparations for Flight Test 10.

In the latest feed shared by space watchkeepers, the Booster 18 V3 has appeared to have exploded due to some issues in the tank. It can be confirmed that SpaceX has been conducting cryo-proof tank testing, which is the initial milestone for the rocket before it gets to the static-fire.

Starship B18 (the first V3 flight vehicle) seemed to have suffered a anomaly during its first cryo test, and a sudden release of the gas could be seen on @NASASpaceflight cameras. While we do not know what happened, it remains what the future holds for B18https://t.co/wTIGOIVHDm pic.twitter.com/1A4qgSu0wo

— Elisar Priel (@ENNEPS) November 21, 2025

Specifically, engineers pressurize a tank, vessel, or structure to a level higher than normal operating pressure (typically 1.25–1.5× the maximum expected operating pressure). This proves the component can withstand stresses without leaking or failing catastrophically. It can use any safe pressurizing medium (e.g., water for hydrostatic tests, helium/nitrogen gas for pneumatic tests, or cryogenic fluids).

Failures during such testing are common in early development, and the anomalies can be expected for a fresh vehicle.

Images shared by @starshipgazer show the real impact of this anomaly on the vehicle, rupturing the tank area. It also appears that the nearby test site structure may have limited damage.

SpaceX Starship Super Heavy Booster 18 v3 experienced a pre-launch test anomaly (Source – Starship Gazer)

As the first test specimen, this V3 booster 18 has done its job and will be removed from the test stand to return to the factory for inspections. More information about the explosion is soon to come.