Elon Musk's SpaceX has initiated a lawsuit against the California Coastal Commission after it blocked the company's request to increase rocket launches at Vandenberg Space Force Base.
SpaceX sought permission to launch up to 50 rockets this year, claiming the Commission overstepped its authority and was biased against Musk.
The Commission oversees coastal activities but lacks authority over federal operations. SpaceX argues its launches should be classified as federal activities due to its partnership with the US Space Force.
The Commission disagreed, stating most launches serve Musk's Starlink network, not government missions. SpaceX's lawsuit aims to classify its launches as federal operations, potentially allowing for more freedom in future requests.
This legal battle reflects tensions between private space companies and state regulators as they navigate launch frequency and oversight.