FAA Grants Launch License for SpaceX’s Starship 5

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted a license on Saturday for the launch of SpaceX’s Starship 5, scheduled for Sunday, despite earlier indications that a decision would not be made until late November

SpaceX aims to launch on Sunday, with a 30-minute launch window opening at 7:00 a.m. CT (1200 GMT).

The FAA confirmed that SpaceX has met all safety, environmental, and other licensing requirements for the suborbital test flight of Starship 5 and has also approved the mission profile for Starship 6.

The Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket form a fully reusable system designed to transport crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, and beyond.

The fifth test flight from Boca Chica, Texas, includes a return of the Super Heavy booster rocket to the launch site for a catch attempt by the launch tower, as well as a water landing of the Starship vehicle in the Indian Ocean, west of Australia.

Also Read: SpaceX’s Starship: FAA May Approve the Launch License Soon

The FAA noted that if SpaceX opts for an uncontrolled entry, it must inform the FAA before launch; in such a case, the loss of the Starship vehicle will be classified as a planned event, and a mishap investigation will not be necessary.

On Friday, the FAA approved the return to flight of the SpaceX Falcon 9 vehicle after reviewing and accepting the SpaceX-led investigation findings and corrective actions related to a mishap that occurred on September 28.

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has been vocal in his criticism of the FAA, particularly regarding a proposed $633,000 fine against SpaceX for launch issues and the delay in approving the license for Starship 5, which he claims has been ready for launch since August. Musk has called for the resignation of FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker and has threatened to sue the agency.