Arabella Asis Science 09.07.2023 04:Sep AM EDT

SpaceX Still Not Authorized for Another Test Flight, FAA says

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that SpaceX is yet to be cleared to test its Starship Super Heavy.

SpaceX Awaits FAA Approval

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk posted on X claiming that the "Starship is ready to launch, awaiting FAA license approval." However, the space company has not gone through the requirements in order to qualify for testing its vehicle.

Last April, SpaceX's Starship caused an explosion and a 3.5-acre of fire. During its first launch, the vehicle managed to fly for more than three minutes. Unfortunately, Starship lost multiple engines and failed to reach the space which eventually led to explosion.

The incident left a crater on the ground and had impacted the home of endangered wildlife. Concrete chunks, stainless steel sheets, and other objects were also found on the site.

FAA Stands Firm on Decision After the 'Mishap' Investigation

The FAA called a mishap investigation after the failed Starship launch. The organization is responsible for ensuring the public safety during commercial space transportation operations.

"The FAA will not authorize another Starship launch until SpaceX implements the corrective actions identified during the mishap investigation and demonstrates compliance with all the regulatory requirements of the license modification process," FAA replied on CNBC.

NASA is reportedly reliant of SpaceX for space transport from US into the orbit. As long as SpaceX fails to comply with the requirements, the FAA mishap investigation will remain open.