FAA grounds SpaceX starship flights pending investigation

The FAA decided to temporarily suspend SpaceX rocket flights after the upper stage of the Starship/Super Heavy launch system exploded during a test. Fragments of the spacecraft fell to Earth, prompting the need for an investigation.

The seventh test flight of the world's largest rocket took place on January 16. The Starship/Super Heavy system launched from a base near Boca Chica in Texas. After the upper stage separated, the Super Heavy module returned to Earth and was captured by the mechanical arms of the launch tower, known as Mechazilla, which was considered a success.

However, despite this success, SpaceX also experienced a significant setback. The upper stage, Ship 33, exploded at an altitude of 91 miles, and its debris fell to Earth, including on the Turks and Caicos Islands.

"The FAA requires SpaceX to conduct an investigation into the accident involving the loss of the Starship vehicle (...)," read a statement from the agency. The investigation aims to enhance public safety and identify corrective actions.

SpaceX reported that the explosion resulted from a fire in the engine section of the spacecraft, caused by an oxygen/fuel leak. Elon Musk announced on platform X that the company will implement additional safety measures, including a fire suppression system. "In addition to double-checking for leaks, we will add a fire suppression system and likely increase the venting area," Musk wrote.

Before SpaceX can resume Starship rocket flights, the FAA must approve the company's final investigation report. "The return to flight hinges on the FAA's determination that no system, process, or procedure related to the incident impacts public safety," the statement emphasized. SpaceX assures that it is working with the FAA to resume testing as soon as possible.