FAA Clears SpaceX Falcon 9 for Launch After Engine Failure Fix; Starlink 10-4 Mission Set to Proceed
July 26, 2024
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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Sources

TechCrunch • Jul 26, 2024
SpaceX cleared to resume Falcon 9 launches while FAA investigation remains open | TechCrunch
The Verge • Jul 26, 2024
SpaceX says it’s fixed the Falcon 9 and will resume launches tomorrow
Yahoo Tech • Jul 26, 2024
SpaceX's Falcon 9 cleared to return to space, FAA says
Yahoo News • Jul 26, 2024
SpaceX cleared to launch Falcon 9 rocket again