0
0
Investigation Launched Into SpaceX Starship Flight Mishap
For the third time in less than a year, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is launching an investigation into a flight involving SpaceX’s Starship megarocket. The recent launch occurred on Thursday, March 14, from SpaceX’s Starbase facility in South Texas. The objective was to bring both the first-stage Super Heavy booster and the Starship upper stage safely back to Earth for ocean landings. Regrettably, both components disintegrated in the atmosphere, categorizing the test flight as a mishap.
The FAA promptly announced its intention to lead a thorough investigation into the events of the flight. This investigation will be overseen by the FAA and conducted by SpaceX.
Background and Previous Flights
The 400-foot-tall (122 meters) Starship, developed by SpaceX to transport passengers and cargo to the moon and Mars, first took flight in April 2023 on a brief four-minute test mission. Another test flight followed in November, achieving several milestones but concluding prematurely after eight minutes.
For both previous missions, the FAA supervised investigations that resulted in multiple corrective actions identified for SpaceX to address before further testing. Despite the setbacks, significant progress was made, particularly in the successful stage separation during the second flight.
Current Status and Future Plans
Following the recent mishap, the FAA will not authorize any future launches until the ongoing investigation is complete, and SpaceX has implemented the necessary corrective measures. The specific corrective actions required will be determined based on the findings of the investigation.
Looking ahead, SpaceX remains committed to its Starship program, with multiple vehicles already constructed and more in production. Plans for the next test flight are contingent upon resolving the issues from the recent flight mishap. Once the necessary approvals are granted, SpaceX will be prepared to continue testing and refining its Starship technology.
Image/Photo credit: source url
