---
title: "SpaceX launches Starship on first orbital test flight"
publication: "MediaBias News"
url: "https://mediabias.news/tech/spacex-launches-starship-on-first-orbital-test-flight"
api: "https://mediabias.news/api/v1/stories/spacex-launches-starship-on-first-orbital-test-flight"
markdown: "https://mediabias.news/tech/spacex-launches-starship-on-first-orbital-test-flight.md"
audio: "https://mediabias.news/api/audio/spacex-launches-starship-on-first-orbital-test-flight"
category: "Science & Tech"
published: "2026-09-28T13:25:29.939Z"
source_reported: "2026-09-28T13:08:19.000Z"
updated: "2026-09-28T13:25:29.939Z"
trust_score: 58
critic_score: 61
hype_score: 41
assessment_type: "coverage-and-source-reporting-analysis"
fact_check_status: "not-performed"
coverage_measured: "2026-09-28T14:14:01.642Z"
---

# SpaceX launches Starship on first orbital test flight

*The rocket aims to deploy satellites and test systems for future NASA moon missions.*

**Scores for the source reporting** (0-100, assessing the original journalism this article was written from, not this write-up): 

- Trust 58 of 100, higher is better. One outlet published a full report, 16 others provided digests. Claims are corroborated across multiple sources.
- Craft 61 of 100, higher is better. The full report details the mission plan, technical aspects, and future implications for NASA's Artemis program.
- Hype 41 of 100, lower is better. Headlines use terms like 'giant rocket' and 'supersized Starship' but the body of the full report is factual.

Scored by MediaBias News; method at https://mediabias.news/methodology.

**The short version**

- SpaceX launched its Starship rocket on its first orbital test flight on Monday.
- The mission includes deploying 26 Starlink satellites and testing systems for NASA's Artemis moon program.
- The rocket is powered by 33 Raptor engines and is designed for six orbits.
- The Starship is expected to splashdown off the coast of Chile after a planned nine-hour, 50-minute mission.

SpaceX launched its Starship rocket on its first flight intended to reach orbit on Monday. The mission is a significant step toward developing the rocket for commercial use and NASA's Artemis moon missions. The Starship is powered by 33 methane-burning Raptor engines.

The mission plan includes deploying 26 Starlink internet satellites during the first hour of a six-orbit journey. The rocket is designed to orbit the Earth six times before a planned splashdown off the coast of Chile. The total mission duration is expected to be nine hours and 50 minutes.

## Disagreement on mission details

Reports differ on the number of test flights that preceded this launch. Fox Business stated this was the rocket's 14th test flight, while CBS News indicated there had been 13 suborbital test flights prior to this mission. The mission plan also varies, with CBS News detailing a six-orbit, 10-hour mission and Fox Business describing a 10-hour test flight aiming to orbit Earth six times.

## Omissions

None of the right-rated digests mention that the Starship's mission plan includes deploying 26 Starlink internet satellites. None of the centre-rated digests mention the rocket is powered by 33 methane-burning Raptor engines. None of the right-rated digests mention the rocket is powered by 33 methane-burning Raptor engines.

## Who covered it

Shares of the 103 covering outlets with a published leaning rating:

- Left: 32% (33)
- Centre: 45% (46)
- Right: 23% (24)

37 of 140 covering outlets carried no usable leaning rating and were excluded from those percentages. Coverage measured 2026-09-28T14:14:01.642Z.

**Coverage watch:** developing. Checked 3 times; 0 checks found a material change. Most recently checked 2026-09-28T14:00:09.686Z.

## How the sides framed it

### Left

- Left-rated reports focused on the Starship's launch as its first orbital test flight. Multiple outlets highlighted the aim of six full laps around Earth to prove readiness for NASA's Artemis moon program. Associated Press News and The Seattle Times noted the launch of its enormous Starship toward orbit for the first time. Elora Fergus Today, Bay Today, and flamboroughtoday.com also carried this framing, stating the launch was to prove readiness for NASA's Artemis moon program.

### Centre

- Centre-rated reports highlighted the Starship's launch as its first orbital test flight and a critical step for NASA's Artemis moon missions. CBS News provided a full report detailing the mission's objectives, including deploying 26 Starlink satellites and the rocket's power from 33 Raptor engines. WNDU, My Mother Lode, Washington Top News, and Winnipeg Free Press all stated the launch was toward orbit for the first time, aiming for six laps around Earth to prove readiness for NASA's Artemis moon program. CBS News also noted that the Starship upper stage lost an engine during ascent but was cleared to continue.

### Right

- Right-rated reports focused on the Starship's launch and its objective of reaching orbit. Reforma stated Elon Musk's Starship megarocket took off to reach Earth orbit and deploy 26 Starlink satellites. Fox Business reported on the 10-hour test flight, aiming to orbit Earth six times and deploy 26 Starlink satellites before a Pacific Ocean splashdown, identifying it as the rocket's 14th test flight. India Today noted the mission would test critical systems, including orbital engine relighting, satellite deployment, heat-shield performance, and controlled re-entry.

## Factuality profile of the covering outlets

These are published factuality ratings of the outlets, not a verdict on whether this story or its claims are true.

- low: 1
- mixed: 11
- high: 39
- unknown: 37
- veryHigh: 52

## Verification scope

This page compares coverage and scores the source reporting. It is not a ClaimReview verdict on whether the underlying event or claim is true.

## Original reporting this was written from

- [Kronen Zeitung](https://krone.at/4312864) — Starship Rocket Launched to Travel Around the Earth
- [PerthNow](https://perthnow.com.au/news/world/spacexs-starship-reaches-orbit-despite-engine-issue-c-22939367) — SpaceX's Starship reaches orbit despite engine issue
- [New York Post](https://nypost.com/2026/09/28/us-news/spacex-launches-massive-starship-for-first-orbital-mission) — SpaceX launches massive Starship into orbit for the first time despite engine shutting down
- [The Blade](https://toledoblade.com/news/nation/2026/09/28/spacex-s-supersized-starship-launches-orbit/stories/20260928089) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches into orbit for first time
- [The National Herald](https://thenationalherald.com/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-into-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX’s Supersized Starship Launches Into Orbit for the First Time
- [Aleph News](https://alephnews.ro/stiinta/premiera-pentru-spacex-racheta-starship-a-ajuns-pentru-prima-data-pe-orbita) — SpaceX Premiere: Starship Has Reached Orbit
- [parapolitika.gr](https://parapolitika.gr/diethni/article/1798032/spacex-proti-trohiaki-ptisi-gia-to-starship-exi-perifores-guro-apo-ti-gi-kai-26-doruforoi-bideo) — SpaceX: First Orbital Flight for Starship - Six Orbits Around Earth and 26 Satellites
- [Washington Times](https://washingtontimes.com/news/2026/sep/28/launch-spacexs-supersized-starship-heads-toward-orbit-first-time) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Latestly](https://latestly.com/socially/technology/science/spacex-starship-reaches-earth-orbit-after-engine-shutdown-during-launch-completes-orbital-burn-7624320.html) — SpaceX Starship Reaches Earth Orbit After Engine Shutdown During Launch, Completes Orbital Burn | 🔬 LatestLY
- [BBC News](https://bbc.com/news/videos/c6ge4lp442npo) — SpaceX launches Starship rocket into orbit for first time
- [Radio France Internationale](https://rfi.fr/en/international-news/20260928-spacex-puts-starship-megarocket-in-orbit-for-first-time) — SpaceX puts Starship megarocket in orbit for first time
- [El Diario](https://diario.mx/estados-unidos/2026/sep/28/despliega-megacohete-starship-satelites-en-orbita-terrestre-1140492.html) — Launch Megacohete Starship Satellites in Earth Orbit
- [vz.lt](https://vz.lt/inovacijos/2026/09/28/milziniska-spacex-raketa-starship-pradejo-pirmaji-bandomaji-skrydi-i-zemes-orbita-590648) — SpaceX's Giant Starship Rocket Launches First Test Flight Into Earth Orbit
- [NEWS9 LIVE](https://news9live.com/science/spacex-starship-flight-14-orbit-starlink-satellites-3011520) — SpaceX Starship Flight 14: Rocket reaches orbit, begins Starlink deployment
- [Welt](https://welt.de/wirtschaft/article6aba6d36f7cbe7cf0da4c6e5/riesenrakete-von-spacex-erreicht-erstmals-erdumlaufbahn-fuer-10-stunden-test.html) — Giant Rocket From SpaceX Reaches Earth Orbit for the First Time for a 10-Hour Test
- [Lietuvos Radijas ir Televizija](https://lrt.lt/naujienos/mokslas-ir-it/11/3066340/didziausia-visu-laiku-raketa-starship-pirma-karta-pasieke-zemes-orbita) — The Largest Rocket Ever, Starship, Has Reached Earth Orbit for the First Time
- [Click](https://click.ro/actualitate/international/compania-lui-elon-musk-a-lansat-cea-mai-puternica-2560333.html) — Elon Musk's Company Launched the World's Most Powerful Rocket. What Problems Arose After Takeoff
- [WLWT](https://wlwt.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WMUR](https://wmur.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WYFF](https://wyff4.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WTAE](https://wtae.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WPTZ](https://mynbc5.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [KMBC](https://kmbc.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WBAL-TV](https://wbaltv.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WMTW](https://wmtw.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WVTM](https://wvtm13.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WAPT](https://wapt.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WPBF](https://wpbf.com/article/spacex-starship-launch/73923920) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Dagens industri](https://di.se/live/space-x-har-skjutit-upp-jatteraket) — Space X Has Launched a Giant Rocket
- [WTVB](https://wtvbam.com/2026/09/28/spacexs-starship-reaches-orbit-despite-engine-issue) — SpaceX’s Starship reaches orbit despite engine issue
- [1prime.ru](https://1prime.ru/20260928/spacex-873728976.html) — On the Verge of Disaster: the US Almost Lost a Dozen Satellites
- [CTV News](https://ctvnews.ca/sci-tech/article/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-into-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches into orbit for the first time
- [Next News Network](https://nextnewsnetwork.com/2026/09/28/starship-reaches-orbit-for-first-time-after-engine-scare) — STARSHIP REACHES ORBIT FOR FIRST TIME AFTER ENGINE SCARE
- [antena3.ro](https://antena3.ro/life/stiinta/megaracheta-starship-a-lui-elon-musk-fost-lansata-cu-succes-in-prima-misiune-pe-orbita-804930.html) — Elon Musk's Starship Megarache Was Successfully Launched in the First Orbital Mission
- [The Record](https://troyrecord.com/2026/09/28/watch-live-spacex-starship-launch-on-1st-orbital-attempt) — SpaceX Starship makes it to orbit for the first time
- [blesk.cz](https://blesk.cz/clanek/zpravy-svet/849164/primy-prenos-revolucni-zlevneni-satelitu-muskova-obri-raketa-miri-na-obeznou-drahu.html) — Live Broadcast: Revolutionary Reduction in the Price of Satellites? Musk's Giant Rocket Reaches Orbit, Is the Largest in History
- [Observador](https://observador.pt/2026/09/28/spacex-coloca-starship-em-orbita-pela-primeira-vez) — SpaceX Puts Starship in Orbit for the First Time
- [vz.ru](https://vz.ru/news/2026/9/28/1456219.html) — The Starship Spacecraft Went on Its First Orbital Flight
- [Aktuality.sk](https://aktuality.sk/clanok/dwcZuRv/supertazka-raketa-starship-prvykrat-dosiahla-obeznu-drahu-zeme-ma-ju-obletiet-sestkrat) — Starship Super-Heavy Rocket Reaches Earth Orbit for First Time, to Orbit It Six Times
- [Forbes](https://forbes.com/sites/jamiecartereurope/2026/09/28/spacexs-starship-reaches-orbit-for-first-time-in-historic-flight-14) — SpaceX's Starship Reaches Orbit For First Time In Historic ...
- [Expansión](https://expansion.com/tecnologia/2026/09/28/6aba6e39e5fdea997d8b4573.html) — SpaceX Puts Into Earth Orbit Starship, the Ship with Which Elon Musk Wants to Go to Mars
- [Sydney Morning Herald](https://smh.com.au/world/north-america/spacex-s-starship-launches-into-orbit-for-first-time-20260928-p61180.html) — SpaceX’s Starship launches into orbit for first time
- [The Age](https://theage.com.au/world/north-america/spacex-s-starship-launches-into-orbit-for-first-time-20260928-p61180.html) — SpaceX’s Starship launches into orbit for first time
- [WA today](https://watoday.com.au/world/north-america/spacex-s-starship-launches-into-orbit-for-first-time-20260928-p61180.html) — SpaceX’s Starship launches into orbit for first time
- [Brisbane Times](https://brisbanetimes.com.au/world/north-america/spacex-s-starship-launches-into-orbit-for-first-time-20260928-p61180.html) — SpaceX’s Starship launches into orbit for first time
- [PressNewsAgency](https://pressnewsagency.org/spacexs-starship-launches-into-orbit-for-first-time) — SpaceX’s Starship launches into orbit for first time
- [topky.sk](https://topky.sk/cl/11/9504837/StarShip-mal-namale--Po-probleme-s-motorom-konecne-dosiahol-obeznu-drahu) — StarShip Almost Reached Orbit After Engine Problem
- [CFJC Today Kamloops](https://cfjctoday.com/2026/09/28/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Έθνος](https://ethnos.gr/World/article/422026/hspacexethesegiaprothforatostarshipsetroxiagyroapothghliveeikona) — SpaceX Has Put Starship Into Orbit Around Earth for the First Time - Live Image
- [دیجیاتو](https://digiato.com/astronomy/spacex-starship-flight-14-launch) — Starship Reaches Earth Orbit for the First Time; First Starlink V3 Satellites Deployed
- [Digi 24](https://digi24.ro/stiri/actualitate/misiune-istorica-a-spacex-starship-cea-mai-puternica-racheta-din-lume-a-ajuns-pentru-prima-data-pe-orbita-3967899) — SpaceX's Historic Mission: Starship, the World's Most Powerful Rocket, Has Arrived for the First Time in Orbit
- [CNBC-TV18](https://cnbctv18.com/world/elon-musks-spacex-launches-historic-test-flight-of-massive-starship-rocket-20000278.htm) — Elon Musk’s SpaceX launches historic test flight of massive Starship rocket
- [hbl.fi](https://hbl.fi/varlden/space-x-har-skjutit-upp-jatteraket) — Space X Has Launched a Giant Rocket
- [Aroged](https://aroged.com/2026/09/28/historic-launch-starship-enters-earth-orbit-for-first-time-despite-engine-failure) — Historic launch: Starship enters Earth orbit for first time despite engine failure
- [Hot News](https://hotnews.ro/video-succes-urias-pentru-spacex-racheta-starship-inalta-cat-o-cladire-cu-40-de-etaje-a-ajuns-in-spatiu-pentru-prima-oara-2360347) — VIDEO Huge Success for SpaceX: Starship Rocket, as High as a 40-Story Building, Arrived in Space for the First Time - HotNews.ro
- [N Digital](https://n.com.do/2026/09/28/spacex-avanza-en-su-primer-viaje-orbital-y-lanza-la-decimocuarta-prueba-de-vuelo-del-starship) — SpaceX Advances on Its First Orbital Journey and Launches the 14th Starship SpaceX Flight Test Launches the Huge Starship with the Goal of Its First Orbital Journey
- [Aktuálně.cz](https://zpravy.aktualne.cz/zahranici/obleti-sestkrat-zemi-a-vypusti-satelity-muskuv-starship-je-uz-na-orbitu/r~aaa29a612a7911f709ebad337e1b8d0c) — It Will Orbit the Earth Six Times and Launch Satellites. Musk's Starship Is Already in Orbit
- [The Globe & Mail](https://theglobeandmail.com/world/article-spacex-starship-launch-orbit-first-time) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches into orbit for the first time
- [Hindustan Times](https://hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/spacexs-starship-reaches-orbit-after-engine-issue-to-deploy-26-starlink-satellites-101790602088522.html) — SpaceX's Starship reaches orbit after engine issue, to deploy 26 Starlink satellites
- [estrepublicain.fr](https://estrepublicain.fr/science-et-technologie/2026/09/28/la-megafusee-starship-d-elon-musk-atteint-l-orbite-terrestre-une-premiere) — Space. Elon Musk's Starship Megafusée Reaches Earth Orbit, a First
- [bienpublic.com](https://bienpublic.com/science-et-technologie/2026/09/28/la-megafusee-starship-d-elon-musk-atteint-l-orbite-terrestre-une-premiere) — Space. Elon Musk's Starship Megafusée Reaches Earth Orbit, a First
- [ledauphine.com](https://ledauphine.com/science-et-technologie/2026/09/28/la-megafusee-starship-d-elon-musk-atteint-l-orbite-terrestre-une-premiere) — Space. Elon Musk's Starship Megafusée Reaches Earth Orbit, a First
- [republicain-lorrain.fr](https://republicain-lorrain.fr/science-et-technologie/2026/09/28/la-megafusee-starship-d-elon-musk-atteint-l-orbite-terrestre-une-premiere) — Space. Elon Musk's Starship Megafusée Reaches Earth Orbit, a First
- [leprogres.fr](https://leprogres.fr/science-et-technologie/2026/09/28/la-megafusee-starship-d-elon-musk-atteint-l-orbite-terrestre-une-premiere) — Space. Elon Musk's Starship Megafusée Reaches Earth Orbit, a First
- [vosgesmatin.fr](https://vosgesmatin.fr/science-et-technologie/2026/09/28/la-megafusee-starship-d-elon-musk-atteint-l-orbite-terrestre-une-premiere) — Space. Elon Musk's Starship Megafusée Reaches Earth Orbit, a First
- [lalsace.fr](https://lalsace.fr/science-et-technologie/2026/09/28/la-megafusee-starship-d-elon-musk-atteint-l-orbite-terrestre-une-premiere) — Space. Elon Musk's Starship Megafusée Reaches Earth Orbit, a First
- [lejsl.com](https://lejsl.com/science-et-technologie/2026/09/28/la-megafusee-starship-d-elon-musk-atteint-l-orbite-terrestre-une-premiere) — Space. Elon Musk's Starship Megafusée Reaches Earth Orbit, a First
- [Clarin](https://clarin.com/estados-unidos/spacex-pone-en-orbita-terrestre-por-primera-vez-el-starship-en-su-decimocuarta-prueba_0_RNKOn9rIVx.html) — SpaceX Puts the Starship Into Earth Orbit for the First Time, in Its Fourteenth Test.
- [echo24.cz](https://echo24.cz/a/HNywL/svet-zpravy-lod-starship-se-poprve-dostala-na-obeznou-drahu-uvedl-spacex) — Starship Reaches Earth Orbit for the First Time, SpaceX Announces
- [meadowlakeNOW](https://meadowlakenow.com/2026/09/28/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Aristegui Noticias](https://aristeguinoticias.com/2809/kiosko/spacex-lanza-el-enorme-starship-con-la-meta-de-su-primer-viaje-orbital) — SpaceX Launches the Huge Starship with the Goal of Its First Orbital Journey
- [Zeit Online](https://zeit.de/wissenschaft/2026-09/spacex-elon-musk-starship-rakete-technik) — SpaceX: Infinite Wealth Instead of Infinite Wealths
- [WSVN](https://wsvn.com/news/us-world/spacex-starship-orbital-debut) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time - WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports
- [Rzeczpospolita](https://cyfrowa.rp.pl/globalne-interesy/art45201991-przelomowy-lot-starshipa-po-raz-pierwszy-trafil-na-orbite-w-tle-starlinki-i-kosmiczna-ai) — A Groundbreaking Starship Flight. It Entered Orbit for the First Time. Starlinks and Space AI in the Background.
- [Independent Español](https://independentespanol.com/noticias/ciencia/spacex-lanza-su-cohete-starship-en-preparacion-para-mision-artemis-b3057635.html) — SpaceX Launches Its Starship Rocket in Preparation for Artemis Mission
- [Internewscast](https://internewscast.com/news/us/spacex-launches-starship-on-its-first-orbital-test-flight) — SpaceX Launches Starship on Its First Orbital Test Flight
- [BizToc](https://biztoc.com/x/c4c5bb4fa76edcbe) — SpaceX’s Starship rocket reaches orbit for the first time
- [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com/2026/09/28/spacexs-starship-rocket-reaches-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX's Starship rocket reaches orbit for the first time
- [Ada Derana](https://adaderana.lk/news/cmul9x4vn000k356owlub0iai) — SpaceX launches Starship on first orbital flight
- [Stuff](https://stuff.co.nz/world-news/361039545/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-fi) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Il Sole 24 Ore](https://ilsole24ore.com/art/lanciato-starship-primo-test-orbita-il-veicolo-spacex-che-mira-marte-AJ3jQcRB) — Starship, First Orbit Test for the SpaceX Vehicle Aiming at Mars
- [Political Wire](https://politicalwire.com/2026/09/28/spacexs-starship-launches-toward-orbit) — SpaceX’s Starship Launches Toward Orbit
- [NBC News](https://nbcnews.com/science/space/spacex-starship-rocket-launches-orbit-first-time-rcna600222) — SpaceX’s giant Starship rocket launches toward orbit for the first time
- [EL ESPAÑOL](https://elespanol.com/omicrono/defensa-y-espacio/20260928/spacex-lanza-exito-cohete-starship-primer-vuelo-orbital-nave-dara-vuelta-tierra-primera-vez/1003744400040_0.html) — SpaceX Successfully Launches the Starship Rocket on Its First Orbital Flight: the Ship Will Turn to Earth for the First Time
- [Times of India](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/spacexs-biggest-most-powerful-rocket-reaches-earth-orbit-for-first-time/articleshow/134543670.cms) — SpaceX's 'biggest, most powerful' rocket reaches Earth orbit for first time
- [Life.ru](https://life.ru/p/starship-otpravilsya-v-pervyy-polet-vokrug-zemli-pered-missiyami-k-lune-i-marsu) — Starship Went on the First Flight Around the Earth Before Missions to the Moon and Mars.
- [Ckpg Today](https://ckpgtoday.ca/2026/09/28/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [VINnews](https://vinnews.com/2026/09/28/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX’s Supersized Starship Launches Toward Orbit For The First Time
- [Battlefords NOW](https://battlefordsnow.com/2026/09/28/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [CBS News](https://cbsnews.com/news/spacex-launches-starship-on-giant-rockets-first-flight-to-orbit) — SpaceX launches Starship on giant rocket's first flight to orbit
- [Chicago Tribune](https://chicagotribune.com/2026/09/28/spacex-starship-2) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches toward orbit
- [The Straits Times](https://straitstimes.com/world/spacexs-starship-launches-on-14th-flight-first-headed-to-orbit) — SpaceX's Starship launches on 14th flight, first headed to orbit
- [WNDU](https://wndu.com/2026/09/28/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-first-time) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Reforma](https://reforma.com/apunta-spacex-alcanzar-la-orbita-con-su-megacohete-starship/ar3283879) — Aim SpaceX to Reach Orbit with Its Megarocket Starship
- [Le·gal In·sur·rec·tion](https://legalinsurrection.com/2026/09/spacex-launches-starship-to-perform-first-orbital-test) — SpaceX Launches Starship to Perform First Orbital Test
- [Interfax.ru](https://interfax.ru/world/1118937) — The Starship Spacecraft Has Set Off on Its First Orbital Flight
- [Fox Business](https://foxbusiness.com/technology/spacex-launches-starship-10-hour-test-flight-aiming-orbit-earth-6-times) — SpaceX launches Starship on 10-hour test flight, aiming to orbit Earth 6 times
- [Axios](https://axios.com/2026/09/28/spacex-starship-orbital-flight) — SpaceX launches Starship on first orbital flight
- [My Mother Lode](https://mymotherlode.com/news/science/11175513/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time.html) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Sapo](https://tek.sapo.pt/noticias/ciencia/artigos/maior-foguetao-da-spacex-tenta-fazer-historia-hoje-com-a-primeira-viagem-a-orbita-da-terra) — SpaceX's Biggest Rocket Tries to Make History Today with the First Trip to Earth's Orbit
- [Mathrubhumi](https://mathrubhumi.com/technology/news/spacex-starship-14th-test-flight-starlink-v3-launch-jwo79h88) — Starship Enters Orbit for the First Time, Launch Successful; Along with 26 Starlink Satellites
- [20minutos](https://20minutos.es/tecnologia/actualidad/starship-despega-exito-cohete-spacex-afronta-primer-vuelo-orbital_7041987_0.html) — SpaceX Wants to Make History: Starship Successfully Takes Off and Faces Its First 10-Hour Orbital Flight
- [Washington Top News](https://wtop.com/national/2026/09/spacex-launches-starship-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX launches Starship toward orbit for the first time – WTOP News
- [Naftemporiki](https://naftemporiki.gr/techscience/2167626/ektoxeytike-to-diastimoploio-starship-tis-spacex-gia-dokimastiki-ptisi-se-trochia) — SpaceX's Starship Spacecraft Launched for Orbital Test Flight
- [Winnipeg Free Press](https://winnipegfreepress.com/arts-and-life/life/sci-tech/2026/09/28/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Elora Fergus Today](https://elorafergustoday.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829290) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Bay Today](https://baytoday.ca/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829290) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [flamboroughtoday.com](https://flamboroughtoday.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829290) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [The Toronto Star](https://thestar.com/news/world/spacex-s-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time/article_b9c5c706-d892-563c-a716-0c0ce60cd860.html) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches into orbit for the first time
- [Rocky Mountain Outlook](https://rmoutlook.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829290) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [SooToday.com](https://sootoday.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829290) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Prince George Citizen](https://princegeorgecitizen.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829293) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Orillia Matters](https://orilliamatters.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829290) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Bowen Island Undercurrent](https://bowenislandundercurrent.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829293) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Sudbury](https://sudbury.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829290) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [ElliotLakeToday.com](https://elliotlaketoday.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829290) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Timmins Today](https://timminstoday.com/world-news/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time-12829290) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WBAL](https://wbal.com/spacex-launches-starship-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX launches Starship toward orbit for the first time
- [The Seattle Times](https://seattletimes.com/seattle-news/science/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX’s supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Associated Press News](https://apnews.com/article/spacex-starship-orbit-262d3c58d56bf7a525b49115d6c5dfe8) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [WKMG](https://clickorlando.com/tech/2026/09/28/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches into orbit for the first time
- [The Northern Virginia Daily](https://nvdaily.com/associated_press_national/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time/article_60b96e69-c2ae-528a-bcf8-eb0e5ff55ff0.html) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches toward orbit for the first time
- [Bangor Daily News](https://bangordailynews.com/2026/09/28/nation/spacexs-supersized-starship-launches-into-orbit-for-the-first-time) — SpaceX's supersized Starship launches into orbit for the first time
- [Mankato Free Press](https://mankatofreepress.com/news/state_national_news/spacex-launches-starship-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time/article_73d547b7-fd0d-5226-a39a-4024ae93634d.html) — SpaceX launches Starship toward orbit for the first time
- [The Daily Item](https://dailyitem.com/wire/spacex-launches-starship-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time/article_3c882e03-5d59-503e-a804-eecb09580d6c.html) — SpaceX launches Starship toward orbit for the first time
- [Beloit Daily News](https://beloitdailynews.com/news/national-news/spacex-launches-starship-toward-orbit-for-the-first-time/article_369ecbc6-6feb-507e-a296-10ac42a2a5a4.html) — SpaceX launches Starship toward orbit for the first time
- [India Today](https://indiatoday.in/science/story/starship-super-heavy-14th-flight-orbital-mission-splashdown-elon-musk-spacex-3004967-2026-09-28) — Starship launched on historic maiden orbital flight to complete six trips around Earth
- [CNN Brasil](https://cnnbrasil.com.br/ciencia/spacex-tenta-colocar-starship-em-orbita-pela-1a-vez-acompanhe-ao-vivo) — SpaceX Launches Starship and Tries to Perform 1st Orbital Flight; Follow Live
- [WESH](https://wesh.com/article/spacex-starship-1st-orbital-flight-test-texas/73922597) — SpaceX launches Starship's 1st orbital flight test
- [Georgia Public Broadcasting](https://gpb.org/news/2026/09/28/spacexs-starship-launches-on-first-orbital-mission-texas) — SpaceX's Starship launches on first orbital mission from Texas
- [futurezone.at](https://futurezone.at/science/spacex-starship-14-flight-livestream-launch-windows/403194307) — Livestream: Historical Flight From SpaceX Starship
- [abc 7 LA](https://abc7.com/post/starship-worlds-most-powerful-spacecraft-launch-attempt-orbit-earth-first-time/19882139) — Starship, world's most powerful spacecraft, launches in attempt to orbit Earth for 1st time
- [wissenschaft.de](https://wissenschaft.de/artikel/riskanter-test-klappt-der-erste-orbitale-flugtest-des-starship) — Risk Test: Does the First Orbital Flight Test of the Starship Work?
- [Liberation](https://liberation.fr/sciences/espace/la-megafusee-starship-delon-musk-va-tenter-datteindre-lorbite-terrestre-pour-la-premiere-fois-20260928_J527WAOXANCF7PX3VKQGARSHEI) — Elon Musk's Starship Megafusée Will Try to Reach the Earth Orbit for the First Time
- [Zero Hedge](https://zerohedge.com/markets/spacex-starship-reaches-orbit-after-engine-failure-scare) — SpaceX Starship Reaches Orbit After Engine Failure Scare
- [npr](https://npr.org/2026/09/28/nx-s1-5983418/spacex-starship-first-orbital-flight-14-nasa) — SpaceX's Starship launches on first orbital mission from Texas
- [ksfr.org](https://ksfr.org/npr-news/2026-09-28/spacexs-starship-launches-on-first-orbital-mission-from-texas) — SpaceX's Starship launches on first orbital mission from Texas
- [tpr.org](https://tpr.org/science-technology/2026-09-28/spacexs-starship-launches-on-first-orbital-mission-from-texas) — SpaceX's Starship launches on first orbital mission from Texas
- [Infobae](https://infobae.com/america/ciencia-america/2026/09/28/spacex-prepara-el-lanzamiento-del-vuelo-14-de-starship-la-maniobra-clave-para-llegar-a-la-orbita) — SpaceX Launched Starship Flight 14, Taking Off From Texas on Its First Voyage to Earth Orbit
- [Reuters](https://reuters.com/business/media-telecom/spacexs-starship-launches-14th-flight-first-headed-orbit-2026-09-28) — SpaceX's Starship launches on 14th flight, first headed to orbit

## Questions

**What was the main goal of SpaceX's Starship orbital test flight?**

The main goal was to launch the Starship rocket into orbit for the first time, testing critical systems and proving its readiness for future missions, including NASA's Artemis moon program. The mission also aimed to deploy 26 Starlink satellites.

**What is the planned duration and end point of the Starship mission?**

The Starship mission is planned to last approximately nine hours and 50 minutes. It is designed to orbit the Earth six times before a controlled splashdown off the coast of Chile.

**How does this Starship flight relate to NASA's moon missions?**

This orbital test flight is a crucial step toward perfecting the Starship rocket for commercial flights and NASA's Artemis moon missions. A variant of the Starship is intended to serve as a lander for astronauts on future lunar missions.

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