U.S. Space Force Explores Potential SpaceX Starship Launch Sites at Cape Canaveral
Environmental Studies Initiated to Assess Feasibility of Launching Starship from Cape Canaveral
The U.S. Space Force is taking a significant step towards exploring the possibility of launching SpaceX's Starship from the Cape Canaveral facility. The Department of the Air Force is currently preparing an environmental impact statement (EIS) as mandated by the National Environmental Policy Act. This study will evaluate the environmental effects of potential Starship launches from Cape Canaveral.
Repurposing Cape Canaveral's Space Launch Complex 37 for Starship Operations
As part of the environmental study, the Space Force will consider the conversion of Space Launch Complex (SLC) 37 at Cape Canaveral into a dedicated Starship launch complex. Originally built for the Saturn 1 and 1B rockets, SLC-37 was later repurposed for Delta 4 launches. With the Delta 4 nearing retirement and no further plans from United Launch Alliance to utilize the site, SLC-37 emerges as a prime candidate for repurposing.
Exploring a New Launch Complex: SLC-50
The environmental study will also evaluate the construction of a new launch complex, designated SLC-50. This new complex would be located between SLC-37 and SLC-40, which is currently used by SpaceX for its Falcon 9 launches. The addition of SLC-50 would further expand the launch capabilities at Cape Canaveral, providing more options for Starship missions.
Public Meetings and the Road Ahead
To engage stakeholders and gather input, public meetings will be held to discuss the scope of the environmental impact statement (EIS). This marks the beginning of a comprehensive process that is expected to extend over a year and a half. The draft EIS is scheduled to be published in December, with final conclusions and a decision anticipated by October 2025.
Cape Canaveral's Renewed Interest in Launch Facilities
In addition to the environmental studies, the Space Force has announced the reallocation of several abandoned launch sites at Cape Canaveral to various companies for development. This move indicates a heightened interest in utilizing the area's launch facilities. Space Force Col. Shannon DaSilva acknowledged the limited availability for further development, as nearly all launch pads have already been allocated.
SpaceX's Existing and Planned Starship Launch Sites
Currently, SpaceX operates a Starship launch pad in South Texas and is in the process of constructing another at Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39A. Furthermore, Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, has expressed plans for a second launch pad in Texas to support a high cadence of launches. However, the proposed Starship launch complex at the northern end of Kennedy Space Center's property, designated LC-49, is currently on hold following an environmental review.
The U.S. Space Force's environmental studies and the possible conversion of SLC-37, along with the exploration of a new launch complex, demonstrate the growing interest in expanding Starship launch capabilities at Cape Canaveral.
Analyst comment
Positive news: The U.S. Space Force is conducting environmental studies to potentially launch SpaceX Starship from the Cape Canaveral facility or a newly proposed complex. The study will consider repurposing existing launch sites and constructing a new launch complex. The reallocation of abandoned launch sites to companies also indicates increased interest in the area. Limited availability for further development suggests a positive market outlook.
