NASA’s big solution for SpaceX Starship launch without FAA…

NASA’s big solution for SpaceX Starship launch without FAA…
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0:00-0:25: Intro
0:26-1:47: Sunday Launch
1:47-4:31: FAA approved
4:32-9:12: Unusual timeline
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#alphatech
#techalpha
#spacex
#elonmusk
#nasa
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Sources of image & video:
iamVisual:
PRØXIMA ⁂
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NASA’s big solution for SpaceX Starship launch without FAA…
Finally, it’s happening!
Despite rumors of a far-off launch at the end of November, SpaceX has just confirmed that their Starship Flight 5 could happen as soon as this weekend.
But that’s not all—the company also announced they’re planning an epic "catch" of the rocket using their Chopstick arms.
Let’s dive into it on today’s episode of Alpha Tech:
On October 8, we saw the latest updates and changes from SpaceX's website. The essential schedule for Starship Flight 5 was posted, including a countdown and detailed timeline. Typically, as we've seen in previous launches when SpaceX shares such a schedule, it means they want to provide space enthusiasts with a clear view of the mission timeline just before the launch takes place shortly afterward.
In the update on their website and social media platform X, SpaceX declared: “Starship’s fifth flight test is preparing to launch as soon as October 13, pending regulatory approval.”
NASA’s big solution for SpaceX Starship launch without FAA…
But let’s not get too caught up in the FAA approval part because Elon Musk’s confidence leaves little room for doubt. He stated on X: ‘Launch could be as soon as Sunday.’
They are fully prepared for everything concerning Starship’s fifth flight, and October 13 couldn’t come soon enough. Do you believe in this timeline? Comment ‘Yes’ if you agree or ‘No’ if you don’t, and share your reasons in the comments below!
To be honest, until the readiness is confirmed by both SpaceX and its leader, the challenge still lies in the “pending regulatory approval,” and the FAA is the agency in charge of granting it.
In fact, the FAA had previously stated that the launch license would not be issued before the end of November 2024. This has caused confusion since other indicators, like regulatory filings and flight preparations, suggest that SpaceX could be ready to launch as early as mid-October. The FAA’s firm stance, citing safety, environmental, and licensing requirements, directly contradicts the launch timeline hinted at by SpaceX.
NASA’s big solution for SpaceX Starship launch without FAA…
The question now is: Why is SpaceX so confident in announcing this early launch date? I’m certain they have something up they already have in hand to ensure victory belongs to them. Let’s consider a few possibilities.
First, SpaceX might be anticipating a change in the FAA’s stance, allowing for an earlier launch date than initially projected. The FAA’s current statement could merely reflect the situation as it stands now, leaving room for adjustments. This means that if SpaceX addresses FAA's concerns—such as the sonic booms generated by the Super Heavy's return for Mechazilla's rocket-catching maneuver, which required an additional 60 days of review since September—the launch could be brought forward.
Another possibility fueling SpaceX’s strong assertion about Starship Flight 5 launching this weekend could be NASA's involvement. As a major partner in the Starship program, especially through its role in the Artemis missions, NASA might intervene to expedite the licensing process, potentially bypassing the FAA’s usual procedures. In theory, NASA has the authority to grant launch licenses, which would explain SpaceX’s optimistic outlook.
A third, more concerning possibility is that SpaceX might be pushing legal boundaries by proceeding with pre-launch activities without final FAA approval. While speculative, this approach could lead to significant legal conflict with the FAA if SpaceX goes ahead without the proper permissions.
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[donscheid]

Even using the words "normal landing" in this video tells you how quickly space travel has changed.

[elitnoctua]

regulations that don’t allow a functioning private space program should be feared.

[andrewbobb]

My first thought on SpaceX's notice was that it was showing without a doubt that they are ready, and focusing everyone's frustration squarely on the FAA.

[benitosalazar]

Makes more sense to have NASA regulate and approve space flights instead of the FAA. They need to stick to airplanes.

[xptechmikie]

YES, YES, if the arms can safely catch the rocket, it will make all other means of landing obsolete. WHAT A GAME CHANGER !

[Trilobite]

FAA needs to stick to what they do best. Promote passenger airliners that fall out of the sky & raking in millions in fines for that which they know nothing about.

[billxam]

NASA involvement would, from what I know, negate the FAA requirement.

[Ahdbfbfbeh]

Elon is a hero who will advance humanity

[socorro]

Hey Elon, for every delay charge the Government more for official flights.

[ericchen]

Knock off the clamp from FAA is the biggest achievement so far ( better than flight 4)

[cadehuff]

As the federal government has absolutely no constitutional authority to control any launches or even flight, give them the finger and launch anyway.

[Workingcinderellaman-jwpf]

The regulatory process to launch a Starship shouldn't take longer than a few weeks. The FAA has proven that it's either politically motivated or a completely inept bureaucracy, take your pick. They shouldn't be in charge of approving space launches.

[terencereeder]

Nasa needs Spacex to succeed. SLS seems to be taking forever.

[TomiLoveless]

We will see! ""Don't believe everything you see and here" "Now if you will excuse me I must be on my way!"

[fertileplanet]

Imagine two hundred years in the future, when they will launch Starship as a form of entertainment (a group of astronauts have to go on a "retro style' mission to mars to relive the colonial period).

[julianlamb]

Perhaps the faa is starting to worry about being exposed for being greedy power mad idiots😅

[agparry]

Love the way they say, "Traditional Rocket Landing" or "Traditional Rocket Recovery" methods like landing on a drone ship or back at one of the landing sites has been happening for decades.
Oh, and NASA could license the launch. In the past it has been NASA's responsibility to license rockets that have been "in development" and the FAA would only take over licensing once the craft had been certified. Why shouldn't that practice continue?

[paulsongy]

Good luck spacex what ever you decide..

[andrevandermerwe]

Not only the FFA, the CIA, FBI and the rest needs to ho or extreme overhaul

[ARWest-bpyb]

I'd like to see them launch soon, but not too hopeful that the FAA can move that fast.🐌🐌