FAA requesting SpaceX investigate seventh launch mishap

BOCA CHICA, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Federal Aviation Administration is requiring SpaceX to conduct a mishap investigation after losing its Starship vehicle and allegedly showering Turks and Caicos with debris, a release from the FAA stated.

While there are no reported injuries from the launch operations on Jan. 16, the FAA is working with SpaceX and other authorities to confirm reports of public property damage in Turks and Caicos.

To see the streaking debris fall across the sky, see our previous coverage.

In an effort to enhance public safety, the FAA activated a Debris Response Area, which is described as a situation that happens when a space vehicle experiences an anomaly with debris falling outside of the identified closed aircraft hazard areas.

It allows the FAA to direct aircrafts to exit the area and prevent others from entering, the FAA statement read.

SpaceX reported that it "lost contact" with the Starship vehicle about eight minutes into the flight.

During the time of the anomaly the FAA briefly slowed aircraft traffic outside of the area where the space vehicle debris was falling. It also stopped departures for some aircrafts that were at their locations.

Several aircrafts requested to divert due to low fuel levels while holding in the air outside the affected area, according to the FAA.

Shortly after videos began to hot social media of the debris shower, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk took to X to say "Success is uncertain, but entertainment is guaranteed!"

"Preliminary indication is that we had an oxygen/fuel leak in the cavity above the ship engine firewall that was large enough to build pressure in excess of the vent capacity," he continued.

"Apart from obviously double-checking for leaks, we will add fire suppression to that volume and probably increase vent area. Nothing so far suggests pushing next launch past next month."

To watch the launch, visit LabPadre.