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FAA: SpaceX Must Complete 75 Actions Before Boca Chica Launch Site Approval

Agency’s environmental review for the Texas launch site included several concerns that must be addressed.

SpaceX starships in launch position at the Boca Chica Starbase. [File photo: Shutterstock]
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Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA has completed its final environmental assessment for SpaceX's Boca Chica launch site, requiring SpaceX to implement 75 mitigation actions, 53 primarily concerning biological resources.
  • Even after these actions, additional reviews are necessary for the launch site's full approval.
  • The assessment identifies potential negative impacts on protected species, public access, and local residents, alongside positive impacts like economic benefits and job creation.
  • Public response to the draft assessment was divided, with strong local support for economic reasons contrasting with significant opposition over environmental and social concerns.
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The FAA’s long-awaited final Programmatic Environmental Assessment (PEA) for SpaceX’s Boca Chica, Texas, launch site has been completed, and SpaceX has some work ahead of it.

According to the FAA, SpaceX must take a total 75 actions to mitigate the environmental impact of its Starship/Super Heavy launch facilities, 53 of which deal with biological resources.

Jeremy Kariuki

Jeremy attained his bachelor's in journalism and emerging media from Kennesaw State University. He also served in the Georgia Air National Guard as a C-130 Crew Chief for six years, holding an associate in aircraft maintenance technology.

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