SpaceX launches to ISS are under independent NASA review after rare Falcon 9 rocket failure

White frost-like material builds up around a cone-shaped rocket nozzle as it glows orange.

NASA will perform its own re-authorization of SpaceX's Falcon 9 before the rocket launches its next astronaut crew or cargo mission, the agency confirmed Wednesday (July 17).

Falcon 9 experienced a rare failure during an engine burn of SpaceX rocket's second stage, due to an oxygen leak, during a launch on Thursday (July 11). A mandatory mishap investigation is ongoing. SpaceX, however, asked the Federal Aviation Administration Monday (July 15) to allow for future launches under a "public safety determination", meaning the launch posed no risk to public safety.