SpaceX Rocket Debris Threatens Endangered Turtles in Mexico, Say Conservationists

📰 SpaceX Rocket Debris Threatens Endangered Turtles in Mexico, Say Conservationists
📍Tamaulipas, Mexico

📄 Mexican environmental groups are sounding the alarm over what they call “severe damage” to endangered species caused by rocket debris from SpaceX’s Starship explosion, which occurred during a static fire test at its Starbase launch site in Boca Chica, Texas on June 18.

According to CNN Español and Infobae, Jesús Elias Ibarra of Conibio Global, a Mexican non-profit, warned that “millions of rocket fragments are polluting Mexico’s coastline and ocean,” directly impacting endangered turtle populations.

The group said it has collected more than one ton of SpaceX debris scattered across 500 square meters of beach on the Mexican side of the Gulf. The wreckage includes rusted iron, aluminum parts bearing SpaceX labels, blue adhesives, and a 4-meter-long cylindrical object.

Conibio Global began documenting and removing the debris in November last year, with operations centered around Bagdad Beach in Tamaulipas, approximately 15 kilometers from the Boca Chica site. So far, the cleanup effort has cost the group $26,000 USD.

Ibarra, who is also a veterinarian, emphasized the vulnerability of the Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, one of the most endangered turtle species that nests in the Gulf of Mexico. He explained that rocket-related vibrations have prevented turtle eggs from hatching, and that “at least 300 hatchlings never emerged because the beach sand became compacted.”

He also expressed concern over micro-debris, stating, “while large rocket parts are being removed, smaller fragments remain a significant threat. There’s a high chance that sea turtles are ingesting these pieces.”

The Mexican government has acknowledged the environmental risks. President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on May 25 that Mexico is considering legal action under international environmental law over the incident near the border.

With ongoing launches at Boca Chica, tensions may escalate between SpaceX and Mexican authorities. Expect increased international scrutiny, potential lawsuits, and new calls for stricter environmental safeguards in space operations.

The fallout from SpaceX’s Starship test has sparked a broader debate on the environmental responsibility of private space ventures. For Mexico’s endangered turtles, the clock may be ticking faster than expected.

🔗 Reported from Tamaulipas, Mexico – World News Environmental Desk

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