SpaceX’s Falcon 9 Rocket Returns to Flight After FAA Approval
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the return to flight of the SpaceX Falcon 9 vehicle after reviewing and accepting the investigation findings and corrective actions for the mishap that occurred on September 28.
Investigation and Corrective Actions
The FAA had grounded the launch vehicle, a NASA astronaut mission, after the second stage of the Falcon 9 malfunctioned, causing it to fall into a region of the Pacific Ocean outside of the designated safety zone. The FAA had given SpaceX 30 days to investigate the incident and take corrective actions.
Closing of Investigations
The FAA has also closed the SpaceX-led investigations for the Falcon 9 mishaps that occurred with Starlink missions in July and August. This marks a significant step forward for SpaceX, which has been facing numerous issues with its launch vehicles.
Return to Flight
On Sunday, the FAA announced that the Falcon 9 rocket could return to flight solely for a mission on Monday for the European Space Agency’s Hera spacecraft from Florida.
Starship 5 Launch
Separately, Reuters reported this week that the FAA could approve a license for the launch of SpaceX’s Starship 5 as soon as this month. Starship 5 is the fifth test launch of the company’s rocket, which it calls Starship. The Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket are a fully reusable system designed to carry crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, and beyond.
Delayed Launch
Last month, the FAA said it did not expect a determination on a license before late November. However, SpaceX said Monday that Starship’s fifth flight test could launch as soon as Sunday, pending regulatory approval. The FAA has repeatedly said it does not expect to decide on a license until late November.
Controversy
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has harshly criticized the FAA, including for proposing a $633,000 fine against SpaceX over launch issues and for the delay in approving the license for Starship 5. Musk has called for the resignation of FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker and threatened to sue the agency.
Conclusion
The FAA’s approval for the return to flight of the Falcon 9 rocket is a significant step forward for SpaceX, which has been facing numerous challenges with its launch vehicles. However, the controversy surrounding the FAA’s approval process and the delays in approving the license for Starship 5 highlight the importance of ensuring the safety and reliability of space launches.
FAQs
- What caused the Falcon 9 malfunction?
- The cause of the malfunction is still under investigation, but it is believed to be related to a faulty second stage of the rocket.
- What is the timeline for the return to flight of the Falcon 9 rocket?
- The rocket is expected to return to flight on Monday, pending regulatory approval.
- What is the status of the Starship 5 launch?
- The launch is pending regulatory approval, with a potential launch date as early as this month.
- How has SpaceX responded to the controversy surrounding the FAA’s approval process?
- SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has harshly criticized the FAA, calling for the resignation of FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker and threatening to sue the agency.