US Space Force Considers Third Spaceport for Heavy Satellite Launches
The US Space Force is considering establishing a third launch range by 2030 to keep pace with the growing demand for heavy launches, and is looking at government and private sites.
The head of Space Systems Command in the US Space Force said that the force needs an additional major spaceport by 2030 to keep up with the rising military and commercial demand for launches, and that it is studying government and privately owned sites, according to SpaceNews on October 21.
This step comes at a time when satellite sizes and launch numbers are increasing, placing pressure on current ranges. Air & Space Forces Magazine quoted the force's procurement command as saying that a third launch range will become necessary by the end of the decade.
The force has not specified a final location or timeline, as the phase remains evaluative and includes government and private options. The decision is expected to depend on the volume of expected demand and the capacity of existing ranges to absorb it.
Current launch ranges in Florida and California are used for government and commercial missions, experiencing growing pressure as commercial and defense satellite programs expand. Building an additional range is a long-term step that requires infrastructure and regulatory approvals.
What do these terms mean?
Launch Range: The site equipped with pads and support bases to launch rockets and spacecraft.
Heavy Launch: Launching large or heavy payloads that require high-thrust rockets.
Space Systems Command: The entity within the US Space Force responsible for developing and operating space systems and procuring launch services.
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