FAA Clears SpaceX Starship for Next Test Flight After Review Closure

Key Facts

1The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration closed its review into a SpaceX Starship booster's return failure from May.

2The decision clears the way for SpaceX to launch the rocket's next test flight from Texas as soon as this week.

In a move that accelerates the pace of the commercial space race, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially closed its review of the SpaceX Starship booster return failure from last May. According to reports, this regulatory decision clears the path for SpaceX to proceed with its next test flight from Texas, which is expected to launch as early as this week.

This development comes amid significant momentum in the aerospace sector, as firms like Boeing and Blue Origin compete for lucrative government and commercial contracts. Reflecting sector sentiment, the SPCX instrument closed at $145.3 (close July 10, 2026), trading within a range of $145.07 to $150.57 per market data. Investors are closely monitoring these tests due to their profound impact on the valuations of both private and public aerospace entities.

Looking ahead, traders are viewing the imminent launch as a primary catalyst for aerospace and defense stocks. With SPCX sitting at $145.3 as of its last close, market participants are also eyeing the broader economic calendar, specifically the FOMC Minutes scheduled for July 8, 2026, which could influence risk appetite for high-growth technology and capital-intensive sectors.