Virgin Galactic has reported to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that an alignment pin detached from its mothership during the “Galactic 06” flight, the company announced on February 5, 2024. Despite the incident, the spaceflight was deemed safe and successful, with no safety impact on the crew on board, the mothership, the spaceship, or individuals on the ground.
The incident came to light during a standard post-flight review when it was discovered that the alignment pin had become detached from the launch pylon of the VMS Eve mothership. Virgin Galactic promptly notified the FAA on January 31, adhering to regulatory requirements, and has since been conducting a thorough review of the incident in partnership with the FAA.
The alignment pin is crucial for ensuring the spaceship aligns correctly with the mothership during ground preparations. It also plays a significant role during the flight by transferring drag and other forces from the spaceship to the mothership. However, the company clarified that the pin does not support the spaceship’s weight nor does it have an active function once the spaceship is released for its journey into space.
Virgin Galactic emphasized that the detachment of the alignment pin did not compromise the safety or integrity of the flight. The flight procedures and protocols in place are designed to manage such incidents effectively, ensuring the safety of the crew and the success of the mission. The company also highlighted that its flights are conducted in restricted airspace and specific geographical locations to minimize risks to ground personnel and structures.
Following the incident, Virgin Galactic is focused on reviewing and addressing the detachment of the alignment pin. The company reassured that the shear pin fitting assembly, which works in conjunction with the alignment pin, remained intact and undamaged on the mothership.
As Virgin Galactic prepares for its next mission, “Galactic 07,” scheduled for the second quarter of 2024, it has promised to provide further updates upon completion of the review.
