The Turks and Caicos Islands Government (TCIG) wishes to inform the public of the upcoming SpaceX Starship Flight #8 launch, scheduled for Monday, 3rd March 2025, from the SpaceX Starbase facility, Boca Chica Launch Site, Texas, USA.
The launch is expected to occur between 6:30pm-7:30pm and follow the same trajectory as previous missions - it is expected to be visible from the TCI under clear conditions.
Public Advisory:
Following the SpaceX Starship Flight #7 incident on 16th January 2025, the TCIG in conjunction with UK Government Agencies has engaged with the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding regulatory assurances and safety mitigations to help ensure that the incident that occurred on 16th January will not be repeated.
The FAA required SpaceX to perform a mishap investigation into the loss of the Starship vehicle during launch operations on 16 January 2025.
The FAA has confirmed:
The cause of the anomaly of the last launch on 16th January has been identified and that corrective measures have been adopted by SpaceX to prevent a recurrence.
Stringent safety criteria will continue to be applied to all future launches to minimise risk to the public or the environment.
The return to flight is based on the FAA determining that any system, process or procedure related to the mishap does not affect public safety.
Expanded and enhanced notification reporting to TCI ahead of planned launches to ensure awareness.
Mariners and Aviators Advisory:
Mariners and aviators are advised to stay informed and keep updated of all maritime advisories and notices to airmen related to potential temporary restrictions.
Mariners are strongly advised to monitor official navigation warnings from the TCI Department of Maritime and Shipping.
Aviation operators are strongly advised to monitor official advisories from the Turks and Caicos Airports Authority (TCIAA) and international air traffic control agencies.
The public is encouraged to monitor the Department of Disaster Management & Emergencies (DDME) notification channels for alerts.
Debris Monitoring and Reporting:
The cleanup activities from the SpaceX Starship Flight #7 are ongoing. Residents are again reminded to report any debris found on the islands or in our coastal waters, by emailing details to nationalsecurity@gov.tc with the subject title ‘Space X Debris’. Email to include:
Location of the debris (island and coordinates)
Time the debris was sighted
A photograph of the debris alongside another object for scale; without touching the debris. If handling debris is unavoidable, persons are cautioned to wear gloves or hand covering. Should direct contact occur, wash hands immediately.
The TCIG remains committed to the safety of the public and the environment and will continue to engage with relevant UK and US agencies to monitor developments.
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