SpaceX successfully launched and landed its Starship prototype serial number 15 (SN15) during a high-altitude flight test.

The SN15 high-altitude flight test was attempted on May 5 from Starbase in Texas (Boca Chica). SpaceX has improved the SN15's structure, avionics, software, and engines, allowing more speed and efficiency throughout production and flight.

Like previous high-altitude flight tests of Starship, SN15 is also powered through ascent by three Raptor engines, each shutting down in sequence prior to the vehicle reaching apogee – approximately 10 km in altitude.

The four flaps of SN15 are actuated by an onboard flight computer to control the vehicle’s attitude during flight and enable precise landing at the intended location.