SpaceX’s Starship soars into orbit after booster explosion prevents an unprecedented double catch

Instead of returning to its Texas pad following liftoff, the first-stage booster was diverted to a point offshore. Despite the setback, the spacecraft continued on its way.

It will steer toward the pad Saturday, barring further trouble. The flight could last as long as 22 hours.

It's the first time that Starship will try to return to the pad from orbit, to be plucked in midair by mechanical arms secured to the launch tower.

The loss of the booster meant Elon Musk's company missed out on a double catch.