Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter! A week of political news in your in-box. We find the news you need to know, so you don't have to. This week, the Air Force announced that tests for hypersonic rocket cargo deliveries would no longer take place. They were initially planned for Johnston Atoll, an unincorporated and remote U.S. territory located approximately 800 miles from Hawaii. The tests were to have consisted of rocket reentries that can carry a maximum of 100 tons. These vehicles would be able to transport loads anywhere in the world within a 90-minute duration. However, environmental concerns continued to surround the plans. The atoll is home to 14 species of birds that nest on the island, and scientists were concerned about the impact that testing would have on the bird populations. Environmental groups have also protested against the tests. Musk and SpaceX have already received criticism for environmental impacts following the launch of the Starship rocket last year. The location of the launch, Boca Chica, Texas, is home to populations of plover shorebirds, and the launch ultimately destroyed many of their nests and eggs. Multiple environmental conservation groups sued the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Musk for damages. The Air Force and SpaceX have not provided further comment on the changes. Share on Facebook