SpaceX Still Trying To Determine Exact Sequence Of Events

SpaceX is focusing on the procedures used to fuel the Falcon 9 rocket which exploded on its launch pad September 1, causing the loss of the booster and its satellite payload.

The Wall Street Journal cites "people familiar with the details" in a report that indicates it was the fueling procedure, not a manufacturing defect, that caused the explosion.

SpaceX engineers are currently trying to recreate the conditions experienced during the fueling of the rocket on September 1 to see if they can determine the precise sequence of events. The results pointing to the fueling procedure are still preliminary, and SpaceX has not made any report to federal officials concerning the cause of the explosion.

There had been some concern that faulty welds in the fuel tank might have ruptured, leading to the blast. If that turns out not to be the case and it was the fueling procedure, sources familiar with the investigation say that SpaceX would be able to avoid a lengthy and costly re-design of the Falcon 9 booster before the company can return to flight.

SpaceX had hoped to be launching rockets again by the end of the year, but industry insiders say that's probably an overly optimistic expectation.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.spacex.com