FAA Approves SpaceX for 25 Annual Starship Launches from Texas

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Breaking: FAA approves SpaceX to launch Starship rockets 25 times yearly from Texas - that's 5 times more than previously allowed!

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What does this mean for the local economy? SpaceX's Texas operations are pumping $6.5 billion into state and local revenue. The numbers might surprise you...

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Jobs, jobs, jobs: 3,400+ full-time staff work directly at the Starbase facility, with 21,400+ indirect jobs supported across Cameron County.

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Tourism boost: Each launch brings over 11,000 visitors to the area. In 2023, more than 20,000 space enthusiasts traveled to witness history being made.

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"I want to thank SpaceX for their direct investment in communities and school districts throughout Cameron County," says County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr.

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Environmental watchdogs have concerns. The FAA approval comes with strict conditions, including wastewater permits and wildlife protection measures.

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No nighttime launches allowed during sea turtle nesting season (April-July), and all ocean landings must stay outside Hawaii's waters.

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SpaceX had to upgrade its facilities - reinforced flame trenches, calibrated water systems, and vibration monitors to protect historic sites miles away.

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Public opinion matters: FAA received 12,303 comments on the proposal. Three public meetings were held in January 2025 before the final decision.

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What's next? This approval is part of SpaceX's bigger plan, with similar expansions at Vandenberg Space Force Base and future operations at Kennedy Space Center.

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