A study on SpaceX’s mega rocket hints at a risk that helped kill the Concorde. How dangerous are sonic booms? | CNN

CNN - Dec 24th, 2024
Open on CNN

In a recent test flight, SpaceX's Super Heavy rocket booster achieved a historic midair landing back at its launch tower in South Texas, thrilling many spectators. However, the return also generated a powerful sonic boom, likened to a gunshot, causing concerns about potential environmental impacts. The noise from the October launch, documented by Brigham Young University researchers, reached up to 146 decibels, raising questions about possible hearing damage and structural issues in nearby areas. As SpaceX plans to expand its Starship flight operations, federal regulators and scientists emphasize the need for more data to understand the sonic boom's impact fully. CEO Elon Musk has downplayed the risks, citing more severe local weather events compared to the rocket launches, yet the phenomenon continues to spark debate among community members and experts alike. The sonic booms, reminiscent of those during the era of supersonic air travel, are now a significant factor in evaluating SpaceX’s ambitious plans, potentially affecting future regulatory approvals and public perception. As the only company executing such precision landings, SpaceX's activities are closely watched, with implications for future aerospace developments and community relations.

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the sonic boom phenomenon associated with SpaceX's Starship launches, highlighting both the technological achievements and the potential environmental and community impacts. It benefits from detailed accounts and expert opinions, contributing to its informative nature. However, while it attempts to present multiple perspectives, it occasionally lacks depth in exploring the full range of viewpoints, particularly those of the affected communities and environmental groups. The article could improve in providing a more balanced representation and in-depth source verification. Its clarity and structure are generally effective, though some technical details could be better explained for general audiences.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article provides a detailed account of the sonic boom phenomenon linked to SpaceX's Starship launches, supported by expert opinions and technical data, such as decibel levels and pressure measurements. However, there is a lack of direct responses or confirmations from SpaceX on certain claims, like the potential structural damage caused by sonic booms. While it cites a study published in JASA Express Letters, the absence of additional corroborative sources or independent verifications for some assertions, especially regarding environmental impacts, suggests that further verification could enhance the article's accuracy.

6
Balance

The article attempts to present multiple perspectives, including those of scientists, local communities, and SpaceX representatives. However, it tends to emphasize the technological success and ambitions of SpaceX, potentially overshadowing the concerns of local residents and environmentalists. While it quotes experts like Dr. Victor Sparrow and Kent Gee, it could benefit from more diverse viewpoints, including those of local government officials or environmental advocacy groups. The article mentions Musk's downplaying of risks but does not explore opposing arguments in depth, which might lead to a perception of bias towards SpaceX's narrative.

8
Clarity

The article is generally well-structured and clear, with a logical flow from describing the rocket launch event to discussing its implications. It explains technical terms like 'sonic boom' and 'overpressure event' effectively, making the content accessible to a broader audience. However, some sections could benefit from simplification or additional context, especially for readers unfamiliar with aerospace technology. The tone remains mostly neutral and professional, although occasional emotive language, such as describing the sonic boom as 'earsplitting,' could be toned down to maintain objectivity.

7
Source quality

The article primarily relies on expert opinions and a recent study published in JASA Express Letters, lending credibility to its claims about the sonic boom effects. It quotes experts from reputable institutions, such as Brigham Young University and Penn State. However, the article lacks a variety of sources, particularly independent or governmental environmental assessments, that could provide a more rounded view of the situation. While it cites FAA regulations, more direct insights or data from the FAA would strengthen the reliability of the information regarding regulatory perspectives.

6
Transparency

The article provides some transparency by mentioning the absence of SpaceX's comments and highlighting the need for more data to fully understand the sonic boom impacts. However, it could improve by disclosing more about the potential biases of the sources cited, such as their affiliations or any previous engagements with SpaceX. The article briefly touches on potential conflicts of interest, like SpaceX's legal actions, but more explicit acknowledgment of these issues and how they might affect the reporting would enhance transparency.