Space companies can now use less reliable safety systems for launch and reentry

The US aviation regulator is providing new guidance for how commercial space companies can prove their flight safety systems are reliable enough. This means companies can use systems that are less redundant or robust than previously required, as long as they can show they meet a new standard.

For years, space launches had to meet very high safety standards, often requiring multiple backup systems. This made launches expensive and complex. This new guidance means companies can design simpler, potentially cheaper safety systems, as long as they can still demonstrate an acceptable level of safety. It shifts the focus from specific hardware requirements to a performance-based assessment.