The current workhorse of space travel, the Falcon 9 rocket from US manufacturer SpaceX, has a problem. After the launch of new Starlink satellites did not work as planned, the launcher now has to remain on the ground.
On Thursday evening local time, 20 new Starlink systems were to be launched into orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The engine of the upper stage of the Falcon 9 was unable to complete its burn as planned. The spacecraft were therefore placed in a lower orbit than intended, the company announced. The US aviation authority, which is also responsible for rocket launches, has therefore suspended all further launches for the time being. Under the watchful eye of the authority, SpaceX technicians must now troubleshoot the problem. It is not yet possible to say exactly how long this will take, including the subsequent testing processes. SpaceX: Launch of the Falcon 9, which did not reach the planned orbit
“Resumption of flight operations will only be possible if the FAA determines that the system, process, or procedure associated with the incident does not affect public safety,” the agency said. “In addition, SpaceX may need to apply for and receive approval from the FAA to modify its license, which includes any corrective actions and all other license requirements.”
There are various factors responsible for this complex procedure. Every rocket launch poses a risk and problems can lead to debris falling to earth in an uncontrolled manner. The Falcon 9 also has to meet additional requirements because the launcher is also certified for the launch of manned flights. SpaceX has made contact with five of the 20 satellites deployed and is trying to get them into a higher orbit using the integrated ion engine. “Unlike an episode of Star Trek, this probably won’t work, but it’s worth a try. The satellite engines have to raise the orbit faster than air resistance pulls them down, otherwise they burn up,” said SpaceX founder Elon Musk. Summary
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