FAA Clears SpaceX Falcon 9 for Launch After Engine Failure Fix; Starlink 10-4 Mission Set to Proceed

July 26, 2024
FAA Clears SpaceX Falcon 9 for Launch After Engine Failure Fix; Starlink 10-4 Mission Set to Proceed
  • The FAA has authorized SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket to resume launch operations following an investigation into an engine failure during a mission on July 11.

  • The failure was traced to a liquid oxygen leak caused by a crack in a pressure sensor's sense line, which prevented the deployment of 20 Starlink satellites.

  • To address the issue, SpaceX plans a near-term fix by removing the faulty sense line and sensor, while a long-term solution is also being considered.

  • The next mission, known as the Starlink 10-4 mission, will deploy a new batch of Starlink satellites into low-Earth orbit.

  • This upcoming launch is crucial for SpaceX as it aims to resume regular missions, including a planned trip to the International Space Station for NASA in August.

  • Weather forecasts indicate an 85% chance of favorable conditions during the launch window, with backup opportunities available if needed.

  • The launch will take place from Kennedy Space Center's Pad LC-39A, and live coverage will be provided by FLORIDA TODAY's Space Team.

  • Viewers can watch the live webcast of the mission on SpaceX's website and Twitter account, offering a unique opportunity for night sky photography.

  • No sonic booms are expected in Central Florida from this launch, which is part of SpaceX's ongoing efforts to expand its Starlink satellite internet service.

  • SpaceX expressed gratitude to the FAA and its customers for their support, emphasizing the importance of safely carrying astronauts and payloads to orbit.

  • While the Falcon 9 issue has not significantly delayed Crew-9, it may impact NASA's upcoming launch schedule, which includes several missions through the fall.

Summary based on 58 sources


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