SpaceX is on the verge of setting a new world record for the highest number of orbital rocket launches in a single year. Despite this achievement, two of its rockets are currently grounded, delaying the company’s chance to break its own record.
The recent launch from the Cape Canaveral Space Center in Florida involved a Crew Dragon spacecraft atop a Falcon 9 rocket. This launch marked the 96th launch in 2023, tying the previous record. The mission aimed to rescue two astronauts stranded aboard the International Space Station. However, during the return of Falcon 9’s second stage to Earth, an issue occurred. Fortunately, there were no casualties or damages, although the rocket landed outside the designated hazard area specified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
As a precautionary measure, SpaceX decided to halt launches of its Falcon 9 rocket until a thorough investigation could determine the cause of the problem during the recent mission. The FAA confirmed that space flights would remain on hold pending the results of the investigation. This delay affects various missions, including Nasa’s Europa Clipper mission and planned launches for SpaceX’s Starlink internet satellites.
Furthermore, the FAA postponed the upcoming orbital flight test of SpaceX’s Starship rocket, despite Elon Musk’s assertion that the rocket has been ready for launch since August. Musk criticized the FAA for what he termed “regulatory overreach.” The regulator defended its decision, citing SpaceX’s introduction of new variables in the proposed Starship Flight 5 mission that necessitated additional safety and environmental assessments.
One notable aspect requiring review is SpaceX’s plan to catch a Super Heavy booster using a “chopsticks” system integrated into the same launchpad from which the rocket will take off. The FAA estimated that the review process would not conclude before late November at the earliest. This delay highlights the intricate regulatory processes involved in ensuring the safety and success of space missions conducted by private companies like SpaceX.