The aftermath of SpaceX's Starship launch and explosion.

The FAA allowed SpaceX to launch its Starship rocket without the usual pad protections, resulting in the dissolving of ultra-strong concrete at the base of the launch structure, hurling chunks of rubble into the ocean and pelting the site where journalists set up remote cameras to capture the event. The dust thrown up by the rocket’s engines was more broadly felt, with a thick layer of sand descending on the surrounding communities. SpaceX didn't build a flame diversion system or pump in water to absorb heat and sound energy, which is typically part of the launch setup for its Falcon rockets. The launch site might be ready to go in one to two months, but the company will need to repair its launch infrastructure and win the approval of the FAA again.