SpaceX's proposed Starship launch plan from Florida initiates controversy among locals, with concerns expressed by both turtle conservations and nudist communities.
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has concluded public meetings as part of its draft environmental impact statement (EIS) process for SpaceX's Starship launches from NASA's Kennedy Space Center (KSC) on Florida's Space Coast. The FAA is now accepting public comments on the draft EIS through Sept. 22.
The draft EIS includes scenarios for SpaceX using both SLC-37 and LC-39A for Starship launches. If approved, Starship operations could require more than 60 closures annually of Playalinda Beach, a public beach that's part of the Canaveral National Seashore. This has raised concerns among locals, conservationists, and community members.
Lisa Mickey, who is involved with several conservation nonprofits in Volusia County, warned that the ecosystem and tourism draw of the region could both suffer. Ken Kremer, a Titusville resident, chemist, and member of the news media, shared similar concerns, stating that the plan risks alienating locals if beach access is repeatedly cut off for launches and scrubs.
On the other hand, Evan Fine, an aspiring law student, argues that rejecting SpaceX's plan would halt progress and lead to stagnation. He believes that the benefits of space exploration outweigh the potential drawbacks.
The ongoing debate about the environmental friendliness of SpaceX's Starship is another point of contention. Some argue that the increased noise and vibration from more launches could have significant impacts on the local environment. However, the FAA has completed a health risk analysis to assess the dangers of hearing loss from Starship launches and found it to be minimal.
The Air Force has canceled plans to build Starship landing pads on an island bird sanctuary, following concerns from conservationists. Nevertheless, some residents and community members have expressed strong concerns about the scale of the Starship proposal during the public hearings.
If approved, the FAA will approve up to 120 launches per year at SLC-40, where SpaceX currently launches Falcon 9. The FAA is also considering SpaceX's request for approval for up to 44 launches and landings of Starship and Super Heavy from KSC's Launch Complex-39A (LC-39A) each year.
A final "Record of Decision" is expected in Winter 2025, which will determine whether SpaceX receives the license to begin Starship launches from Florida. Until then, the public can submit comments electronically at www.regulations.gov, using Docket ID FAA-2024-1395, or through the mail to Ms. Eva Long, FAA Environmental Protection Specialist.
As the debate continues, it's clear that the potential impacts of SpaceX's Starship launches on Florida's Space Coast are a topic of great importance and concern for many.
