SpaceX Seeks Mid-October Starship Launch Amid FAA Approval Disagreement

SpaceX is pushing forward with its plans to launch the fifth flight of its Starship megarocket on October 13, although the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) suggests that test flights will be delayed until November, space.com reported. Despite returning the Starship and its Super Heavy first-stage booster to Earth successfully in June, SpaceX now aims for the more ambitious goal of returning Super Heavy to the launch pad, employing the launch tower's "chopstick" arms for a mid-air catch.

SpaceX announced the potential October 13 launch date in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on October 7, noting that regulatory approval is still required. The FAA has set a timeline suggesting their clearance wouldn't arrive until late November 2024, creating a contrast with SpaceX's intentions. In preparation for this test flight, known as IFT-5, SpaceX completed a series of prelaunch tasks over recent weeks, including vehicle stacking and propellant testing.

The company has publicly criticized the FAA's delay, characterizing it as the result of unnecessary environmental analysis. SpaceX insists that operations have always adhered to permit requirements, with support from the Environmental Protection Agency on these grounds. Meanwhile, NASA is keen on seeing the Starship progress, mainly for its role in the agency's Artemis 3 mission slated for 2026. NASA needs Starship to execute multiple flights, including an uncrewed lunar flight, to meet its rigorous standards. As of June 2023, NASA expressed concern over Starship's readiness for future missions.

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