This is the second consecutive launch failure of the vehicle, only seven weeks after an explosion ended Starship's seventh test flight, a mishap that was still under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA.
NASA will try the experiment again because it could lead to a new, more reliable power system for space stations and help avoid situations like the mirror mishap.
The mishap meant children got an early treat as Father Christmas climbed through a cafe window to hand out presents and sing an impromptu festive song.