SpaceX launches are currently paused after a booster rocket experienced a fiery landing on Wednesday, causing it to topple over.
The Federal Aviation Administration has grounded SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rockets and initiated an investigation into the incident that occurred off the coast of Florida. Fortunately, no injuries or damage to the public were reported.
It is too early to determine the extent of the impact on SpaceX’s upcoming crew flights, one of which is for a private mission and the other for NASA. A billionaire’s chartered flight was also delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions just hours before the incident.
The rocket successfully launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and deployed all 21 Starlink internet satellites into orbit. However, the first-stage booster experienced a fireball and toppled over moments after landing on an ocean platform, marking the first such accident in years. This particular booster had been launched 23 times, setting a recycling record for SpaceX.
The FAA stated that SpaceX must receive approval for their investigation findings and corrective actions before they can resume Falcon 9 launches. A planned launch from California with additional Starlink satellites was immediately canceled following the incident.
Jon Edwards, a vice president at SpaceX, mentioned that the company is diligently working to understand the cause of the mishap as soon as possible.
“Losing a booster is always disheartening. Each one of them holds a unique history and character. Fortunately, such incidents are rare,” Edwards shared on X.
In addition to the private spaceflight awaiting launch from Kennedy Space Center in Florida, SpaceX is also preparing to send a pair of NASA astronauts to space next month. Two seats will be reserved for the astronauts who flew aboard Boeing’s Starliner capsule in June, which NASA deemed unsafe for their return.
By Marcia Dunn
