Starship Flight 5 is anticipated to get FAA approval in 3 weeks

SpaceX is ready to launch Starship Flight 5 but the company is yet to receive approval from Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Starship Fight 5 has already completed important tests such as static fire, tank pressurization, and ground system preparations. SpaceX recently announced that Starship 5 is ready to fly but awaiting FAA’s permission.

The rocket was expected to liftoff in early August but due to additional tests, the company is delaying this flight by the end of August or early September.

Elon Musk, SpaceX CEO said that the company may take about 3 weeks to lift off Starship 5 into space. This prediction goes in line with the previous timeline.

Launched on June 6, Starship 4 completed all milestones including liftoff, hot-staging, second-stage engine ignition, orbit flyby, Earth’s atmospheric reentry, and landing phase.

The first and second stages performed landing burn before splashing into the sea. Unlike the first stage, the Starship spacecraft missed its targeted landing zone.

The upcoming test will catch the super heavy booster with the launch tower arms. This will be the first time SpaceX will attempt such a maneuver for this massive rocket. These might be reasons that the FAA is looking into SpaceX’s launch license modification.

SpaceX Starship 5 Booster Performing Static Fire Test (Source – SpaceX)

Starship Environment Assessment

FAA is conducting an environmental assessment to know the potential impact of new Starship projects and expansion before it can allowed. The company has a launch facility in Boca Chica, Texas, and requested to expand operations at Kennedy Space Center.

The assessment aims to check the environmental effects of building new launch pads, infrastructure, and other facilities in these places. It is looking to launch and land the Starship including noise pollution, air quality, and wildlife impacts.

Furthermore, the impact on public safety and potential risks are also part of this new assessment report. The agency is taking feedback and suggestions from other space transportation and service providers on this matter.