President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday easing regulations for the private space industry, including eliminating or expediting certain environmental reviews. The White House says the measure aims to “substantially” increase the number of U.S. space launches by 2030.
The move could benefit companies like SpaceX, which operates the massive Starship rocket and dominates the global launch market. Starship has faced a series of test failures, including a fiery explosion in June, but remains central to Musk’s plans for Moon and Mars missions.
Supporters say the order will spur competitiveness and innovation, but environmental groups warn it could harm protected species and ecosystems. The Center for Biological Diversity called the order “reckless,” citing the environmental impact of large rocket launches.
Transportation Secretary and NASA Administrator Sean Duffy has been tasked with streamlining launch approvals, while the FAA has already increased annual Starship launch allowances from five to 25, concluding the expansion would not adversely affect the environment.
