Starship Self-Destructs: SpaceX Reports Failure After Leaks

Starship Explosion Analysis and Upcoming Flight

SpaceX reported on Monday that the Starship explosion from last month stemmed from a sequence of failures initiated by propellant leaks. The company asserts that these issues have been resolved in preparation for an eighth test flight, potentially occurring as early as Friday.

FAA Investigation and Authorization

Currently, SpaceX is awaiting either official closure of the “mishap investigation” conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), or a specific authorization to proceed with the flight while the investigation remains ongoing.

This situation is unique, marking the first time SpaceX has faced a mishap investigation while its CEO, Elon Musk, has personnel – from his “Department of Government Efficiency” – actively implementing changes within the FAA. The agency has not yet provided a response to a request for comment.

Initial Test Flight Progress

SpaceX’s January Starship test began successfully. The company aimed to evaluate several enhancements to the Super Heavy booster, the launch tower, and the Starship vehicle itself.

The heavy-lift rocket system launched without incident and ascended into space. The booster successfully separated and returned to land in Texas, where it was captured by the tower.

The Onset of Problems

Difficulties arose approximately two minutes after Starship’s engines ignited for orbital insertion. According to a company blog post, “a flash was observed in the aft section of the vehicle, near one of the Raptor vacuum engines.”

Following the flash, onboard sensors detected a pressure increase, “indicative of a leak” of propellant, as stated by SpaceX.

Escalation and Loss of Control

A second flash occurred two minutes later, and SpaceX reports that “sustained fires” ignited in the affected section of Starship due to the propellant leaks.

These fires prompted “all but one of Starship’s engines to execute controlled shut down sequences,” ultimately resulting in a loss of communication with the spacecraft.

Root Cause and Corrective Actions

SpaceX believes the leaks were likely caused by vibrations exceeding expectations during testing. This resulted in increased stress on components within the propulsion system.

The automatic in-flight abort system was subsequently activated, leading to the destruction of the ship following the fires and communications failure.

Debris and Impact

The explosion created a spectacular visual display over the islands of Turks and Caicos, prompting the FAA to reroute flights to ensure safety.

SpaceX maintains that all debris “came down within the pre-planned Debris Response Area” – a designated safety zone negotiated with government agencies prior to flights. However, residents have shared images of debris washing ashore, and at least one vehicle sustained minor damage.

Improvements for the Next Flight

SpaceX has implemented several modifications, including adjustments to the fuel lines supplying Starship’s engines, alterations to propellant temperature, and the addition of extra vents and “a new purge system.” These changes aim to enhance the robustness of the aft section against propellant leakage.