An early version of Starship takes its first, tentative steps off Earth

Among the key aspects of Tuesday's test was demonstrating that Starship's stainless-steel structure could withstand the harsh environment of a launch and landing.Moreover, Tuesday's test also proved that SpaceX has a handle on the thrust vector control system for its Raptor engine, as it was installed slightly off center, and had to compensate throughout the short flight. This vehicle might possibly make a test flight up to 20km later this year.Before attempting a flight into orbit, SpaceX also needs to build the first-stage rocket, Super Heavy. In recent weeks, SpaceX has begun building a high bay in which to stack the towering Super Heavy rocket, as well as starting construction of a launch pad.Once SpaceX demonstrates Starship in orbital flight, it still has many technical hurdles to clear before this becomes a launch system capable of reaching Mars.