SpaceX Secures Major Approval from FAA

In a groundbreaking move, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced this week that SpaceX can significantly ramp up its Falcon 9 launch operations at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The green light from the FAA means that the current cap of 50 launches per year can skyrocket to a stunning 120!

No Environmental Impact Statement Required

Thanks to a draft environmental assessment, the FAA determined that SpaceX’s expanded launch capacity does not necessitate a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). This decision accelerates plans by bypassing an extended review process that could have delayed expansion for years.

New Landing Pad to Accommodate Increased Operations

As part of the expansion, SpaceX plans to construct a new landing pad that could support up to 34 annual returns of its Falcon 9 first-stage boosters. This pad will foster greater launch and recovery integration, allowing more efficient operations.

Kennedy Space Center Plans Awaiting Approval

Meanwhile, SpaceX is also seeking approval for increased operations at Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39-A. This plan aims to elevate launches from 20 to 36 per year and could introduce up to 20 additional booster landings.

Transforming the Launch Landscape

The proposed developments at Cape Canaveral include a new 400-foot diameter pad, a nitrogen gas line, a pedestal for processing, and designated crane storage, adding approximately 10 acres to the site. This expansion is set against the backdrop of evolving commercial launch operations, requiring companies to utilize the same complex for launches and recoveries.

Boosting Recovery Frequency and Sonic Boom Alerts

If all goes according to plan, the combination of the KSC and Cape Canaveral sites could lead to 56 booster landings yearly, raising the likelihood of sonic boom warnings across Central Florida. Although SpaceX had the green light for 56 landings from existing sites, recent years haven’t seen that limit approached.

Continued Operations on Droneships