S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced its plan to fine SpaceX over $630,000 for allegedly failing to comply with safety regulations during two launches in 2023. The FAA Chief Counsel, Marc Nichols, emphasized the agency's commitment to ensuring safety in commercial space transportation.

The first launch in question is the PSN SATRIA mission, which took place on June 18, 2023. SpaceX had submitted a request for revisions to its communications plan related to the launch, including the addition of a new launch control room and the removal of a readiness poll taken before liftoff. However, the FAA alleges that SpaceX launched PSN SATRIA with these revisions before receiving approval, resulting in a proposed fine of $175,000 for each alleged infraction.

The second launch that faced scrutiny is the Jupiter 3 mission, which was launched on July 28, 2023, using a Falcon Heavy rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. SpaceX utilized a newly built rocket propellant farm at the center without obtaining FAA approval. The company had submitted a revision request for the propellant farm, but it had not been granted at the time of the launch. The FAA has proposed a penalty of $283,009 for this alleged violation.

The FAA has delivered two enforcement letters to SpaceX, outlining the alleged infractions and the proposed fines. SpaceX now has 30 days to respond to the letters. The total amount of the fines for both missions amounts to $633,009.

SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, has been at the forefront of the commercial space industry, with numerous successful launches and pioneering achievements. However, the FAA maintains its responsibility to prioritize safety oversight for all companies operating in the commercial space transportation sector.

It is worth noting that the fines proposed by the FAA are subject to SpaceX's response and any subsequent negotiations. The outcome of this process will determine the final penalties imposed on the company.

Safety remains a primary concern in the space industry, and the FAA's actions serve as a reminder of the strict regulations that must be adhered to, ensuring the well-being of crew members, satellites, and the general public during space missions.