SpaceX impacts Gulf Coast wildlife significantly

SpaceX has developed one of the world's largest private commercial launch sites along the Gulf of Mexico, chosen for its favorable orbital launch conditions. The site, however, is ecologically sensitive, housing nearly 500 bird species, some of which are threatened or endangered. Since 2019, incidents like fires, leaks, and explosions have disrupted wildlife, leading to tension with conservation authorities. Despite initial promises of minimal environmental impact and small-scale operations with Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets, SpaceX shifted to building Starship rockets and expanding the facility. This prompted concerns from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local environmental groups, leading to lawsuits over ecological harm. This scenario highlights the broader tension in the U.S. between advancing commercial space endeavors and conserving natural habitats.