The Air Force has stopped evaluating a unique wildlife refuge in the Pacific Ocean for possible use by Elon Musk’s SpaceX in testing cargo-carrying rockets.
In a move welcomed by conservationists, the Air Force now says it will consider locations other than the Johnston Atoll National Wildlife Refuge for a facility capable of handling up to 10 rockets a year.
“The Department of the Air Force has elected to hold the preparation of the Johnston Atoll Environmental Assessment for a proposed rocket cargo landing demonstration on Johnston Atoll in abeyance while the service explores alternative options for implementation of the rocket cargo Vanguard program at a location other than Johnston Atoll,” Air Force spokesperson Laurel Falls said in an email statement.
The Air Force decision was first reported by Stars and Stripes.
