FAA requires SpaceX-led mishap investigation before resumption of Starship launches

The FAA has ordered a SpaceX-led mishap investigation following Starship Flight 12 before any further launches, including Flight 13, can proceed. The decision came after a detailed review of the May 22 launch, which showed abnormal performance in the Super Heavy booster, specifically Booster 19, and was officially classified as a “mishap.” During ascent, one of the 33 Raptor engines failed early, and further engine shutdowns occurred during the boostback and stage separation sequence. This led to a partial boostback burn and a hard splashdown of the booster in the Gulf of America instead of a controlled landing. The upper stage performed better and reached its intended splashdown zone in the Indian Ocean, though one planned engine test was skipped. The FAA emphasized that SpaceX must investigate the issue under agency oversight, identify causes, and propose corrective actions before returning to flight. While no injuries or public damage were reported, the agency said safety assurance is required before relaunch approval. This is not unusual for SpaceX, as similar mishap investigations have followed previous Starship test flights. However, the setback may delay plans for more advanced missions, including orbital attempts, booster recovery tests, and future Starlink deployment goals. SpaceX has acknowledged that Starship’s development challenges could affect its broader commercial and satellite launch plans.