LOS ANGELES, May 27 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Wednesday ordered SpaceX to conduct a "mishap investigation" involving the Super Heavy booster during the 12th flight test of its giant Starship rocket.
In a statement, the FAA said it had determined that the flight test on Friday resulted in a mishap during the booster's return flight over the Gulf of Mexico following stage separation.
The agency said it will oversee the process and approve SpaceX's final report and any corrective actions.
According to the FAA, a mishap investigation is intended to enhance public safety, determine the root cause of the event, and identify corrective measures to prevent a recurrence.
The agency said that a return to flight for the Starship Super Heavy booster will depend on the FAA determining that no system, process, or procedure related to the mishap poses a threat to public safety.
No injuries or damage to public property were reported following the incident, the FAA said.
During the Starship flight test, the Super Heavy booster failed to complete its planned boostback burn and later made a hard splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico, according to SpaceX.
On Friday, the FAA said it activated a Debris Response Area and determined that the booster debris fell inside the hazard area.
