The Government of Mexico is evaluating sanctions against the U.S. company SpaceX after determining that debris from the Starship rocket caused environmental damage in Mexican territorial waters, specifically along the coast of Tamaulipas.
President Claudia Sheinbaum made the announcement during her morning press conference on Wednesday, stating that the results of the investigation would be released soon.
“We are continuing the investigation, and we will present it very soon. […] The study has already been completed and we will present it, because it did indicate environmental damage. The implications are being reviewed in order to present it properly,” the President said, noting that the damage assessment is now concluded.
The study involved several federal agencies, including the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), the Navy (SEMAR), the Digital Transformation Agency, the Ministry of the Interior (SEGOB), and the Ministry of Foreign Relations (SRE).
Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles, head of SEMAR, explained that the company contracted by SpaceX to recover the rocket debris had permission to enter Mexico, but did not meet the necessary regulatory requirements to operate within the country. As a result, the company was asked to withdraw.
Morales Ángeles added that a review of relevant international regulations is underway to determine potential sanctions and that a preliminary report may be presented in the coming days.
The incident occurred on June 18, when the Starship rocket exploded during its reentry into Earth’s atmosphere. Debris fell into the Gulf of Mexico, with some fragments reaching Bagdad Beach in Tamaulipas.
Although no injuries were reported, the debris fallout raised concerns about environmental impact.
In addition, SpaceX’s launch site in Texas, known as Starbase, has previously faced criticism for its potential impact on local wildlife, adding to broader concerns about the company’s environmental responsibility.
The Mexican Government indicated that it will continue investigating the matter and will take necessary legal measures to protect the environment and national sovereignty.
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