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FAA Approves October 7 Falcon 9 Launch for ESA's Hera Mission Despite Hurricane Milton

Oct 7, 2024, 02:27 PM

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved the October 7 launch of SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket for the European Space Agency's (ESA) Hera mission. The approval comes despite a previous malfunction during the Crew-9 mission, as the Hera mission does not involve a second stage reentry. The FAA stated that the absence of a second stage reentry mitigates the primary risk to the public. The Falcon 9 rocket, making its 23rd and final flight, is fully expendable, with both stages consuming all propellants to send Hera into deep space. Despite adverse weather conditions due to Hurricane Milton approaching, the launch team proceeded with the countdown. The launch took place at 10:52 a.m. EDT, with all systems go. The first stage engine shutdown, stage separation, and second stage engine ignition were confirmed. The vehicle achieved a good parking orbit and will coast before a second firing to complete the mission. Hera is set to deploy at 12:08 p.m. EDT.