California

California Commission Nixes SpaceX’s Plan for More Rocket Launches

Several California Coastal Commission members voiced concern over owner Elon Musk’s recent pro-Trump campaigning and social media statements.
California Commission Nixes SpaceX’s Plan for More Rocket Launches
The SpaceX logo and an Elon Musk photo in an illustration taken on Dec. 19, 2022. Dado Ruvic/Reuters
Jill McLaughlin
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Elon Musk’s recent endorsement of former President Donald Trump and certain social media posts have possibly cost his rocket company the ability to continue launching its Falcon 9 rocket from the California coast this year.

The California Coastal Commission voted on Oct. 10 to deny Musk’s SpaceX its request to make 50 rocket launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base in Santa Barbara County.

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.