California officials reject SpaceX rocket launches, citing Musk's X posts
California officials rejected SpaceX's proposal to increase rocket launches, citing concerns over Elon Musk's political activities and labor practices, emphasizing the need for accountability and environmental considerations.
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California officials have rejected SpaceX's proposal to increase rocket launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base, citing concerns over Elon Musk's political activities and labor practices. The California Coastal Commission voted 6-4 against the plan, which aimed to raise the number of launches to 50 annually. Despite military assurances regarding wildlife monitoring and sonic boom mitigation, commissioners expressed unease about Musk's influence and the nature of SpaceX's operations, particularly regarding the private use of Starlink equipment. They argued that SpaceX should apply for a Coastal Development Permit, emphasizing the need for direct accountability from the company rather than military representatives. The commission's decision reflects ongoing tensions between SpaceX's expansion and environmental considerations, as well as the implications of Musk's public persona on regulatory processes. Military officials plan to continue discussions with the commission to address these concerns, but the rejection highlights the complexities of balancing commercial space activities with environmental protection and public sentiment.
- California Coastal Commission rejected SpaceX's plan for increased rocket launches.
- Concerns were raised about Elon Musk's political involvement and labor practices.
- The commission emphasized the need for SpaceX to apply for necessary permits.
- Military officials are committed to addressing environmental concerns related to rocket launches.
- The decision reflects ongoing tensions between commercial space activities and regulatory oversight.
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3 commentsPerhaps this is editorial so I want to avoid making too strong a statement here, but openly saying "we are denying a permit/witholding authorization to launch, to a company because its owner is aligned with a political party we don't like" is really, really weird to me.
I am not in the US, but is this even legal? Seems like something that should not be part of the evaluation at all.
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