US military gives Elon Musk’s SpaceX access to sensitive tracking data

The US military has granted Elon Musk's SpaceX access to highly sensitive space tracking data, heightening concerns about potential monopolization of the commercial space industry. This decision, made amid efforts by the Trump administration to undermine the federal government's nascent space traffic control program, has raised alarms about the shift of traffic control in Earth's orbit to a controversial figure.

The move comes as SpaceX and the Space Force signed a new contract, granting SpaceX access to the most precise data on potential collisions among satellites and other space objects. This enhanced access could provide SpaceX with a competitive edge over other companies offering similar services. With the commercial US space market projected to grow to nearly $2tn over the next decade, critics argue that this access could solidify SpaceX's dominance in commercial space activity.

Concerns have been raised about the government's reliance on SpaceX's advanced technology and influence, potentially creating a "vendor lock" scenario. SpaceX and the Space Force did not respond to requests for comment.