SpaceX alleges Amazon violated orbital debris rules by launching satellites too high, creating collision risks. Amazon launched satellites 50-90 km above authorized altitudes, forcing SpaceX's Starlink satellites to perform 30 collision avoidance maneuvers. SpaceX claims this significantly increased risks to operational spacecraft and inhabited stations. Amazon denies violations, stating its 450 km insertion altitude complies with its license, which allows some flexibility.

Amazon blames SpaceX's own altitude adjustments for the conflict, noting it only raised objections after SpaceX lowered its Starlink constellation to similar ranges. Both companies accuse each other of using FCC proceedings to delay launches. Amazon says it coordinated with SpaceX before the February 12 launch and will use lower altitudes starting with its fourth mission.