FAA Grounds SpaceX’s Starship Following Mid-Air Explosion

Investigation Launched After Test Flight Anomaly

The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has grounded SpaceX’s Starship rocket after a test flight ended in a mid-air explosion. The incident occurred during a test flight over the Caribbean, where the upper stage of the rocket disintegrated, scattering debris over surrounding areas.

Details of the Incident

• Flight Anomaly: Approximately ten minutes into the flight, the Starship vehicle experienced an anomaly leading to its disintegration. Debris was reported to have fallen over the Turks and Caicos Islands, prompting investigations into potential property damage.
• Safety Measures: No injuries have been reported. The FAA is collaborating with SpaceX and local authorities to assess the situation and ensure public safety.

Next Steps

SpaceX is required to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion and implement corrective actions. The FAA will review these measures before granting approval for future flights. Despite the setback, SpaceX’s founder, Elon Musk, has indicated that this incident is not expected to cause significant delays in the company’s launch schedule.