Bahamas suspends SpaceX rocket landings pending post-launch probe
Reuters April 16, 2025 12:40 PM
Synopsis

The Bahamas has suspended SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket landings pending a full environmental review, following debris from a Starship explosion falling into its airspace last month. Despite initial approval for 19 more landings through 2025, the government is halting clearances until the assessment is complete. The Starship explosion, unrelated to the Falcon 9 program, prompted the investigation.

The Bahamas' government said on Tuesday it is suspending all SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket landings in the country, pending a full post-launch investigation.

"No further clearances will be granted until a full environmental assessment is reviewed," Bahamian Director of Communications Latrae Rahming said in a post on X.

SpaceX did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Bahamian government said in February after SpaceX's first landing in the country that it had approved 19 more throughout 2025, subject to regulatory approval.

The Bahamas' post-launch investigation comes after a SpaceX Starship spacecraft exploded in space last month, minutes after lifting off from Texas.

Social media videos showed fiery debris streaking through the skies near South Florida and the Bahamas after the spacecraft broke up in space shortly after it began to spin uncontrollably with its engines cut off.

Following the incident, the Bahamas said debris from the spacecraft fell into its airspace. The country said the debris contained no toxic materials and added it was not expected to have a significant impact on marine life or water quality.

The Starship explosion was not connected to the Bahamas' Falcon 9 landing program with SpaceX.
© Copyright @2025 LIDEA. All Rights Reserved.