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SpaceX Falcon 9 Grounded After Rare Failure Destroys Starlink Satellites

The rocket's second stage malfunctioned, leading to the loss of 20 Starlink satellites and an indefinite suspension of launches.

SpaceX's Falcon 9 is pictured launching satellites to orbit in space after it lifted off from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, U.S., in this screenshot obtained from a handout video released on July 12, 2024. SpaceX/Handout via REUTERS
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A view from the Falcon 9 upper stage's rocket-cam shows ice forming around the engine hardware. (Credit: SpaceX via YouTube)

Overview

  • The FAA has grounded SpaceX's Falcon 9 pending an investigation into the failure.
  • The rocket's second stage failed to reignite, causing the satellites to enter a low, decaying orbit.
  • This incident ends Falcon 9's streak of over 300 successful missions since 2016.
  • Upcoming missions, including NASA's and private ventures, face delays due to the grounding.
  • SpaceX is working with NASA and updating satellite software to mitigate the issue.