SpaceX, headed by billionaire Elon Musk, has taken legal action against the California Coastal Commission, accusing its members of political bias in hindering the company’s rocket launch operations at Vandenberg Space Force Base. The lawsuit filed in federal court challenges the commission’s attempt to regulate SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launches based on Musk’s political views.
The commission’s decision to restrict commercial space launches and assert regulatory powers over SpaceX’s operations was met with opposition from the company, citing unconstitutional overreach and violation of free speech rights. Musk’s recent political affiliations, including support for Donald Trump, have also come under scrutiny, leading to accusations that the commission is targeting SpaceX due to his public statements.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, SpaceX continues its rocket launches, with plans to increase the number of launches from the California air base. The lawsuit highlights the challenges faced by private space companies in navigating regulatory hurdles and political biases in the industry.