SpaceX's Starship Awaits FAA Approval Amid Environmental Concerns

SpaceX is ready for its next Starship test launch, but regulatory and environmental hurdles remain unresolved.

SpaceX plans to conduct its fifth uncrewed Starship test flight, aiming to return the Super Heavy booster intact and splashdown in the Indian Ocean.
The FAA has not yet approved the launch, with regulatory decisions pending despite SpaceX's readiness to launch as early as October 13.
Environmental groups have raised concerns over SpaceX's Boca Chica launch site, citing violations of the Clean Water Act due to wastewater discharges.
SpaceX faces fines from the EPA and Texas regulators, and legal challenges from local environmentalists seeking a more thorough review of the site's impact.
The FAA is reviewing SpaceX's request to increase annual launches, with current permits allowing only five launches per year at the Texas site.