SpaceX receives approval to construct Starship launch pads at Canaveral location

The U.S. Department of the Air Force has authorized SpaceX to proceed with its Starship and Super Heavy launch pad development at Space Launch Complex 37 (SLC-37) in Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The announcement came with the posting of a record of decision regarding the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the site, marking the conclusion of nearly two years of review.

The decision confirms that the Space Force will formalize a property agreement for the location, primarily to support national security missions while still permitting civil space operations. Before any launches can occur, Space Launch Delta 45 must establish specific operational requirements for Starship activities on the Eastern Range.

SpaceX confirmed the approval and indicated that construction at SLC-37 is already underway. Previously, the Space Force had allowed the company to remove the existing launch infrastructure formerly used by United Launch Alliance for Delta IV Heavy rockets.

SpaceX plans to construct two Starship launch towers at SLC-37, while pursuing a single tower at Kennedy Space Centers Launch Complex 39-A. The 39-A site is still under evaluation through an EIS managed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

SpaceX stated, With three launch pads in Florida, Starship will be ready to support national security objectives and the Artemis program as the region evolves into a spaceport capable of airport-like operations.

The Air Force EIS allows for up to 76 launches and 152 landings annually at the Cape Canaveral site, pending a supplemental FAA analysis of airspace impacts. The Air Force will review the airspace study before finalizing approval for Starship launches.

Potential impacts on air traffic have been a major concern. Combined with the 44 launches and 88 landings proposed at Kennedy Space Center, the total 120 launches and 240 landings could result in up to 12,000 delayed commercial flights per year. Sonic booms from the massive vehicle are another key consideration.

The combined Super Heavy booster and Starship upper stage exceed 400 feet in height and generate nearly 17 million pounds of thrustmore than double that of the Saturn V rockets used in the Apollo program. Boosters are designed to return to the launch site and be captured by the towers swiveling arms, while the upper stage may return after at least one orbit if required by the mission.

Return flights could temporarily block air routes to major Florida airports, including Tampa, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. Officials from Space Launch Delta 45 anticipate that the first Starship launches from Kennedy Space Center could occur as early as summer 2026, pending necessary approvals.

Author: Sophia Brooks