SpaceX test engine launches new spacecraft for the first time



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SpaceX's massive new spacecraft successfully tested its rocket engine for the first time on Wednesday.

The "hopper" version of the Starship rocket – dubbed Starhopper – did not leave the ground, but its powerful Raptor engine was fired briefly as it was tied to the ground at SpaceX's facility in southern New York. Texas.

"Starhopper has finished jumped. All systems are environmentally friendly, "said Elon Musk, General Manager of SpaceX, on Wednesday night.

Musk announced the good news shortly after his other company, Tesla Inc.

TSLA, + 2.07%

, announced bad news: first quarter deliveries well below analysts' expectations.

The reusable Starship rocket, equipped with comic-like angled fins, can carry up to 100 people and is intended for missions on the moon and, later, on Mars – and back.

Other sub-orbital and sub-orbital tests should be done this year. Musk said the spacecraft could make its first orbital flight in 2020.

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