TECHNOLOGY

United States clears SpaceX for Starship Flight 13 launch

PUBLISHED Jul 15, 2026, 4:05 PM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has formally closed its mishap investigation into SpaceX’s Starship Flight 12, conducted on May 22, 2026, clearing the way for the next test mission. In a statement on Monday, July 13, 2026, the FAA said the Flight 12 booster was lost due to heat effects on propulsion components during ascent and incorrect engine alarm settings. No public injuries or damage were reported. SpaceX has implemented four corrective hardware and software configuration changes. With these measures in place, the FAA has authorized Starship Flight 13, targeted for launch on July 16, 2026 from Starbase in South Texas.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

May 22, 2026 Flight 12 launches, recovery mishap occurs
Late May 2026 FAA opens formal mishap investigation
June 2026 SpaceX develops four corrective measures
July 13, 2026 FAA closes Flight 12 investigation
July 13, 2026 Agency details two root causes
July 13, 2026 FAA confirms no public injuries
July 13, 2026 FAA authorizes Starship Flight 13 operations
July 16, 2026 Starship Flight 13 launch targeted

News Intelligence

SpaceX's Starship Flight 13 launch is a step forward in space exploration. It's about progress in technology that could, one day, impact travel, communication, and more. If you're a tech enthusiast, keep an eye on the launch date: July 16, 2026.