The FAA has granted SpaceX a launch license for Starship Flight 8 after confirming that all safety, environmental, and licensing requirements were met. This decision comes after an investigation into Flight 7's failure, which was linked to propellant leaks caused by vibrations that exceeded expectations. Modifications to the Starship design have been initiated, including more robust venting systems to mitigate flammability risks, and future upgrades will see the introduction of the Raptor 3 engine to enhance performance and reduce leak susceptibility. The FAA's safety review underscores progress in SpaceX's development efforts.
The FAA determined SpaceX met all safety, environmental, and licensing requirements for the suborbital test flight, confirming the launch license for Starship Flight 8.
Engineers concluded that the propellant leaks during Flight 7 were likely caused by a harmonic response stronger than predicted, increasing vibration levels.
SpaceX's changes to address flammability include adding additional vents and a new purge system, aiming to enhance safety in the attic section of Starship.
Moving forward, future upgrades will introduce the Raptor 3 engine, aiming to reduce attic volume and eliminate potential leak points in Starship.
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