Space Exploration Technologies Corp. pulled off a mostly flawless landing of its newest and biggest rocket, as the model's fifth test flight opened the door to higher altitude excursions.

The Starship SN-15 prototype lifted off Wednesday from SpaceX's seaside launch pad at about 5:24 p.m. local time in Boca Chica, Texas. The rocket flew to an altitude of about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) before a controlled descent, based on live video streamed by the company. The landing was marred only by a small fire at the bottom of the vehicle that was extinguished after a few minutes.

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