FAA orders SpaceX to investigate Starship V3 booster failure

In a significant move, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has mandated SpaceX to conduct an investigation into a booster failure that occurred during the company’s test flight on May 22. This directive halts further Starship test launches until the investigation concludes and the findings are reviewed by the FAA, jeopardizing the timeline for additional launches ahead of SpaceX's anticipated IPO in mid-June. The FAA’s statement highlighted that its assessment of the May 22 flight indicated a mishap involving the Super Heavy booster during its return to the Gulf of Mexico post-stage separation. Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or damage to public property. The booster failure took place just minutes into the flight, which marked the maiden launch of SpaceX's upgraded Starship version, known as V3. Although the booster successfully separated from the spacecraft, it encountered a critical engine failure—or possibly multiple failures—while attempting the sustained burn necessary for its return. This failure resulted in the booster tumbling towards the Gulf, ultimately leading to an explosion upon impact. SpaceX had made numerous enhancements aimed at increasing the reliability of the Starship in this latest iteration, including redesigns of the booster and the introduction of advanced third-generation Raptor engines. Additionally, the Starship itself suffered a setback when it lost one of its six engines after separation, preventing it from achieving one of its flight objectives: executing a sustained burn in orbit. While SpaceX anticipates failures throughout its developmental journey, the end goal remains to create a vehicle akin to the Falcon 9, which is both reliable and highly reusable. The ability to reuse rockets is vital for reducing the costs of launching heavy payloads into space. As disclosed in its IPO filing, SpaceX's future growth heavily depends on the success of the Starship program, particularly for its lucrative Starlink service, which is currently the company's primary source of profit. The FAA has previously required SpaceX to undertake multiple investigations into mishaps during the Starship's development, a trend extended to its competitor, Blue Origin, as it works on its own heavy-lift rocket, New Glenn. Recently, the FAA granted clearance for New Glenn to resume flights, with the fourth launch attempt expected within the next month.