FAA grounds SpaceX flights after Starship explosion probe

The American Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has decided to temporarily halt 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 occurred on January 16. The Starship/Super Heavy system launched from the base near Boca Chica, Texas. After the upper stage detached, the Super Heavy module returned to Earth and was caught by the mechanical arms of the launch tower, known as Mechazilla. Thus, the test flight can be considered a success.

However, alongside this success, SpaceX also experienced a significant setback. The upper stage, Ship 33, exploded at an altitude of 91 miles, with its debris falling 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 (...)" reads a statement from the agency. The investigation aims to enhance public safety and identify remedial actions.

SpaceX reported that the explosion was caused by a fire in the spacecraft's engine section, resulting from 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 the seals, we will add a fire suppression system and probably increase the vent area," Musk wrote.

Before SpaceX resumes Starship rocket flights, the FAA must approve the company's final investigation report. "The return to flight depends on the FAA's determination that no system, process, or procedure related to the crash affects public safety," emphasised the statement. SpaceX assures that it is cooperating with the FAA to resume tests as soon as possible.