FAA Approves SpaceX's Falcon 9 for Flight Post-Mishap Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration has approved the return of SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket to flight after a thorough investigation into a September malfunction. This allows a mission planned for Monday to proceed. The FAA is also reviewing the licensing for SpaceX's Starship 5 launch, amidst criticisms from CEO Elon Musk over delays.
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has given SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket clearance to return to flight following its investigation of a malfunction on September 28.
The mishap had led to the booster falling outside the designated safety zone in the Pacific Ocean.
The FAA has also concluded investigations into earlier mishaps involving Starlink missions in July and August.
Consequently, the Falcon 9 rocket will launch the European Space Agency's Hera spacecraft from Florida on Monday.
Separately, the FAA is reviewing the license for SpaceX's Starship 5, a fully reusable spacecraft and rocket system, which is expected to launch once licensing requirements are met.
SpaceX, led by CEO Elon Musk, has criticized the FAA for delays, which include a proposed $633,000 fine and prolonged licensing procedures.