SpaceX Starship Explodes During Test, Shakes Cameron County Residents

A late-night explosion at SpaceX’s Starbase facility in South Texas startled residents across Cameron County on Wednesday, as a Starship rocket undergoing a static fire test suddenly erupted, shaking homes and sending vibrations that rattled windows and dishes.

According to the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred at approximately 11:01 p.m. at SpaceX’s Massey’s Testing Center, located just outside Boca Chica in rural South Texas. No injuries have been reported at this time.

Locals from Brownsville to Port Isabel took to social media moments after the blast, with many describing the sound as a “sonic boom” or “earthquake-like rumble” that jolted them awake. Videos from residents show ceiling fans shaking, dogs barking, and car alarms being set off by the force of the explosion.

SpaceX Confirms ‘Major Anomaly’ During Test

Shortly after the incident, SpaceX issued a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter), confirming the explosion and describing it as a “major anomaly” that occurred while preparing for the Starship’s tenth flight test.

“At approximately 11 p.m. CT, the Starship preparing for the tenth flight test experienced a major anomaly while on a test stand at Starbase,” the company stated.

SpaceX assured the public that all necessary precautions had been taken during the test, including a safety perimeter around the testing site, and that “all personnel are safe and accounted for.”

The company added that its Starbase team is currently working alongside local officials to assess damage and “safeguard the test site and surrounding areas.” Officials also reiterated that there is “no hazard to residents in nearby communities.”

Residents Urged to Stay Away

As crews continue to secure the area, SpaceX is urging the public to avoid approaching the test site. “We ask that individuals do not attempt to approach the area while safing operations continue,” the statement said.

ValleyCentral has received multiple reports of shaken homes in Port Isabel, Los Fresnos, and other parts of Cameron County. Although no structural damage has been officially confirmed by county authorities, residents are encouraged to report any potential damage directly through official community channels. A dedicated Facebook link has been provided for this purpose: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16YVfqDx89.

Long-Term Testing and Growing Pains

SpaceX has used its Starbase facility in South Texas as a primary site for developing its Starship rocket—the vehicle intended to carry cargo and humans to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The rocket has undergone several iterations and test launches, some of which have ended in dramatic explosions.

This latest incident comes just ahead of the rocket’s highly anticipated tenth flight test, which SpaceX has been preparing for over the past several weeks. Static fire tests are a standard part of rocket development, during which engines are briefly ignited while the vehicle remains stationary. These tests help engineers assess performance and identify potential issues before full-scale launches.

While explosions during static fires are not uncommon in early-stage rocket development, the intensity of Wednesday night’s blast caught many off guard, especially given the late hour.

Community Reacts

Residents shared a range of reactions online, from concern to fascination. “I thought something hit the house,” wrote one Port Isabel resident. “It was loud—like a bomb going off.”

Others posted photos and videos of the night sky lit up by the explosion, along with clips showing the aftermath at home. ValleyCentral is encouraging residents to submit any photos or videos of the event through its ShareIt portal to assist in ongoing coverage.

Still Developing

As of Thursday morning, SpaceX has not indicated whether the anomaly will delay the Starship’s upcoming flight test. The company is expected to provide more updates once it completes its investigation and safety assessments.

In the meantime, the Cameron County community is left with both shaken nerves and a reminder of the immense power—and risk—behind space exploration.