SpaceX faces legal action in Mexico over its environmental impact

For years, SpaceX has revolutionized the space industry by introducing new cutting-edge technologies and significantly reducing the costs associated with each launch. But every success story has a darker side. And that is currently the case for this company, which is directly threatened by a lawsuit filed by Mexico. 

SpaceX is working on the largest rocket ever created, known as Starship. But while everything was going well, the latest test of this spacecraft, which took place on June 18 at the Mexican border, was a complete disaster. During a test of the upper section, this unique craft suddenly exploded. And while SpaceX claims that the environment was not impacted by this disaster, Mexico does not seem to agree and even considers it a violation of international environmental protection law.

It is important to understand that the Boca Chica Beach area, where Starship is located, has a sensitive ecosystem in which certain protected species live. Each rocket launch or test releases gases and particles. And that's not all, as several components such as perchlorates and metal oxides can contaminate the air, soil, and water.

All this is without taking into account the noise pollution and vibrations that are likely to disrupt the surrounding ecosystem, such as protected species living near the launch site. Finally, space debris caused by explosions can also harm local flora and fauna by destroying ecosystems. 

In response to these issues, SpaceX claims to be making efforts to limit its ecological footprint. This is the case with Raptor engines, which are powered by liquid methane and appear to pollute less than other fuels. Not to mention that numerous devices are currently being studied to recover debris and limit the presence of waste. However, recent incidents, such as the explosion on June 18, show that more work needs to be done and that new solutions must be explored.