Elon Musk's SpaceX Sues California Coastal Commission Over Rocket Launches Block

SpaceX has sued the California Coastal Commission for rejecting its proposal to increase Falcon 9 launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base.

The Commission’s October 10 decision (6-4 vote) cited Elon Musk’s social media activity and SpaceX’s employment practices, issues unrelated to coastal impact.

SpaceX accused the Commission of “unconstitutional overreach,” violating free speech rights and intruding on federal interests.

The US Space Force supported raising launches from 36 to 50 annually for NASA and commercial missions.

SpaceX argued the decision is politically biased and disrupts vital operations, noting no significant coastal impact from launches.