SpaceX Expands Launch Capabilities with New Starship Pad in Florida
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The U.S. Air Force has approved SpaceX's plan to redevelop a historic launch pad at Cape Canaveral for its Starship program. This decision allows SpaceX to move forward with the expansion of Space Launch Complex 37, aimed at enhancing its launch capabilities.
According to Phys.org, the approval was part of a nearly two-year environmental review process, culminating in a 'record of decision' on the Environmental Impact Statement. The Air Force's approval includes a property agreement to support national security missions while also accommodating civil missions.
As reported by CBS News, the first Starship launches from Cape Canaveral could occur as early as summer 2026, pending further approvals. SpaceX has confirmed that construction has already begun, indicating a commitment to develop new infrastructure at both SLC-37 and Kennedy Space Center's Launch Complex 39-A.
SpaceX plans to establish two Starship launch towers at SLC-37 and a single tower at Kennedy Space Center, reflecting its strategy to ramp up launch operations. The company stated that with three launch pads in Florida, it will be positioned to support national security and Artemis goals more effectively.
The environmental review by the Air Force noted that up to 76 launches and 152 landings could occur annually, contingent on an airspace impact analysis by the FAA. This analysis will assess the implications of Starship launches on commercial air traffic, as concerns have been raised about potential disruptions due to the rocket's significant sonic booms during launches.
The combined Super Heavy and upper Starship stage will generate nearly 17 million pounds of thrust, exceeding the power of the Saturn V rockets from the Apollo program. The infrastructure updates at Cape Canaveral are crucial as SpaceX transitions to its next generation of fully reusable launch systems.
The previous Starship V2 design was retired after its 11th test flight in October 2023, and the next iteration, Starship V3, is expected to debut in early 2026. SpaceX aims for heavy flight activity throughout 2026 in preparation for lunar missions, national security payloads, and deep-space exploration.
The expansion of launch capabilities at Cape Canaveral signifies SpaceX's intention to make Florida the primary hub for its long-term launch campaigns, as the company prepares for a high cadence of Starship operations.