A new environmental study is underway to assess the impact of increased SpaceX launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. This follows a record-breaking year of 46 orbital launches from the base in 2024, a sharp increase from just one in 2020. The growth is primarily attributed to SpaceX, which dominated Vandenberg's launch activity.
The Department of the Air Force initiated an environmental impact statement (EIS) to evaluate the consequences of increased SpaceX launches, including the use of a second launch pad, SLC-6. This pad, originally built for the canceled Manned Orbiting Laboratory program, was later used for Space Shuttle launches before being reactivated by SpaceX.
The EIS will consider allowing SpaceX up to 100 annual launches between SLC-6 and its existing launch pad, SLC-4. This includes booster landings and droneship operations. The Department of the Air Force emphasizes the need to meet current and future space launch requirements, particularly for medium and heavy-lift launches to various orbits, and expand launch capacity on the Western Range.
Public meetings are scheduled to gather input on the EIS. A proposed expedited timeline aims for completion by fall 2025. Two primary options in the study differ only in the hangar facility SpaceX would use at SLC-6; a “no action” option is also included. This contrasts with the longer timeline for a separate EIS concerning Starship launches from Cape Canaveral.
However, the plan faces potential opposition. The California Coastal Commission previously rejected an increase in Falcon 9 launches from 36 to 50 annually. Although this decision lacked the authority to block the increase, it highlighted concerns over SpaceX's business practices and Elon Musk's unrelated comments. SpaceX subsequently filed a lawsuit against the commission, alleging political discrimination.
Beyond the legal challenge, environmental concerns remain central. Public comments raised issues about noise pollution from launches and landings, impacting nearby communities. These concerns were addressed in the National Defense Authorization Act, which suggests a noise mitigation program modeled after one for aircraft. Rep. Salud Carbajal emphasized the need for the Department of Defense to seriously consider these community impacts.