FAA Requires SpaceX to Fix Dozens of Issues Before Allowing More Starship Launches

FAA completed investigation into SpaceX's Starship rocket test launch that self-destructed in April
FAA said SpaceX can't launch again from site until it makes dozens of fixes to address failures
FAA found over 60 "corrective actions" needed, including redesigns to prevent leaks, fires, strengthen launch pad
Environmental groups sued FAA over launch, claiming lack of environmental review; want license suspended
FAA requiring SpaceX to apply to modify license before more launches, address all safety and regulatory requirements

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Relevant topic timeline:

8/15/2023

Let the review begin—SpaceX takes another step toward launching Starship again

Main topic: The Federal Aviation Administration is reviewing SpaceX's mishap investigation report on the April test flight of its Starship rocket. Key points: 1. SpaceX has completed its investigation into the test launch, which ended in engine failures and other problems. 2. The FAA's review is important for ensuring public safety during commercial launch operations. 3. Once the final mishap report is approved, SpaceX will be required to make corrective actions and modify its license before being authorized to launch again.

8/26/2023

SpaceX’s Botched Starship Launch Left Wildlife Officials Stunned

The explosion of SpaceX's Starship during its first orbital flight attempt caused extensive damage to the launchpad and surrounding area, leading wildlife officials to suspect that they were initially prevented from investigating the site, and experts believe that the failure to implement standard safety measures, such as a flame diverter and water deluge system, likely contributed to the destruction.

9/6/2023

SpaceX stacks giant Starship rocket ahead of 2nd test flight (photos)

SpaceX's Starship rocket is ready for its second test flight pending regulatory approval, with the fully reusable vehicle eventually intended for various spaceflight missions.

9/7/2023

SpaceX is not yet cleared for another Starship Super Heavy test flight, FAA says

The Federal Aviation Administration has not yet cleared SpaceX for another test flight of its Starship Super Heavy launch vehicle due to the company's failure to meet the FAA's requirements following an explosion during the first test flight in April 2023.

9/8/2023

FAA Closes Investigation into SpaceX Starship Mishap, Requires Extensive Corrective Actions Before Next Launch

The FAA has closed its investigation into the SpaceX Starship Super Heavy mishap and has listed 63 corrective actions that SpaceX must take before the next launch can occur.

9/8/2023

SpaceX Makes Safety Changes After Starship Explosion Damaged Launch Pad

The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered SpaceX to make significant changes to its infrastructure and processes before being allowed to launch another rocket following the destruction of its launch pad in April.

9/10/2023

FAA Investigation Finds Flaws in SpaceX Starship, Requirements Could Delay Artemis Moon Plans

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has released its final report on SpaceX's Starship explosion, citing various contributing factors and recommending 63 actions to address flaws in the spacecraft's systems before it can resume flight testing, potentially causing delays in human-crewed space exploration and altering NASA's Artemis III mission.

Topics

Posted 9/8/2023, 9:13:18 PM

FAA Requires SpaceX to Fix Dozens of Issues Before Allowing More Starship Launches

FAA completed investigation into SpaceX's Starship rocket test launch that self-destructed in April
FAA said SpaceX can't launch again from site until it makes dozens of fixes to address failures
FAA found over 60 "corrective actions" needed, including redesigns to prevent leaks, fires, strengthen launch pad
Environmental groups sued FAA over launch, claiming lack of environmental review; want license suspended
FAA requiring SpaceX to apply to modify license before more launches, address all safety and regulatory requirements

texastribune.org

Relevant topic timeline:

8/15/2023

Let the review begin—SpaceX takes another step toward launching Starship again

8/26/2023

SpaceX’s Botched Starship Launch Left Wildlife Officials Stunned

9/6/2023

SpaceX stacks giant Starship rocket ahead of 2nd test flight (photos)

SpaceX's Starship rocket is ready for its second test flight pending regulatory approval, with the fully reusable vehicle eventually intended for various spaceflight missions.

9/7/2023

SpaceX is not yet cleared for another Starship Super Heavy test flight, FAA says

9/8/2023

FAA Closes Investigation into SpaceX Starship Mishap, Requires Extensive Corrective Actions Before Next Launch

The FAA has closed its investigation into the SpaceX Starship Super Heavy mishap and has listed 63 corrective actions that SpaceX must take before the next launch can occur.

9/8/2023

SpaceX Makes Safety Changes After Starship Explosion Damaged Launch Pad

9/10/2023

FAA Investigation Finds Flaws in SpaceX Starship, Requirements Could Delay Artemis Moon Plans