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Building a Case for New Space Ports

  • Tim Harper
  • Dec 10, 2024
  • 3 min read

The global space industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with launch demand now exceeding current supply. Lets look at the factors that build the case for developing new launch facilities, or space ports, to address this growing demand, support technological advancements, and foster economic growth in the space sector.

Connecting the Earth to Space is going to require a new launch infrastructure.
Connecting the Earth to Space is going to require a new launch infrastructure.
Market Growth and Demand

The global space launch services market is projected to grow from $17.3 billion in 2023 to $38.2 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 12.0%.[1] Industry experts consistently highlight that launch demand is outstripping supply, with insufficient launch vehicles and companies to meet current needs.[2] Projections suggest the low Earth orbit satellite industry could grow tenfold in the next decade. [3]


Existing Infrastructure Constraints

Currently, Cape Canaveral, the world's busiest spaceport, is stretched to its limits with every pad occupied, leading to "massive congestion".[4] Majority of our launch infrastructure was built in the 1960s and is now struggling to support modern launch needs and technologies. [5]


With two primary launch locations for most NSSL missions and two for smaller launches, members of the House Armed Services Committee are calling for greater launch site flexibility. They worry that an earthquake in California or a hurricane in Florida could severely impact the nation’s access to space. Similarly, having just two major launch sites poses a risk in case of conflict with a near-peer, as an adversary might target the few launch complexes on which the nation depends. Risk mitigation measures, including emergency response and security, can help, but a greater number of launch sites is essential. Just as a proliferated on-orbit architecture increases resilience, so too would a more diverse set of launch sites ensure a resilient launch capability.  


Perhaps most importantly, adding alternate launch sites would enable the U.S. to increase its launch cadence. Dispersed parallel processing and launch would reduce bottlenecks at single-digit launch pads. As confidence in the reliability of launch vehicles grows, additional flight paths over land could also augment operations at existing sites.[6]


Environmental and Geographic Limitations

Existing launch sites like Kennedy Space Center face environmental constraints, with limited land available for development.[7] It is further clear that there's a need for diverse geographic locations to support various orbit requirements and reduce bottlenecks.[8]


Technological Advancements

There is an increasing number of new launch vehicles being developed that will require updated or purpose-built facilities.[9] The rise of reusable rockets and increased launch frequencies necessitates modernized infrastructure.[10]


Economic and Strategic Benefits

New launch sites can stimulate local economies and create high-tech jobs.[11] Countries like the UK are developing regulations to enable commercial launches, recognizing the strategic importance of domestic launch capabilities.[12]


Market Diversification

There's a recognized need for a diversity of launch opportunities to create a healthy, competitive market.[13] New facilities could cater to specific market segments, such as small satellite launches or particular orbital requirements.[14]


Regulatory and Environmental Considerations

New facilities can be designed from the ground up to meet modern technological, environmental standards and regulatory requirements.[15] Purpose-built facilities can incorporate advanced wastewater management and environmental protection measures.[16]


Global Competition

As more countries develop space capabilities, new launch sites can help nations maintain or gain competitive advantages in the global space economy.[17]


Conclusion

While building new launch facilities presents significant challenges, including regulatory hurdles and environmental concerns, the growing demand for launch services, limitations of existing infrastructure, and the need for geographic and market diversification make a compelling case for their development. New facilities can be designed to meet modern environmental standards, support next-generation launch vehicles, and cater to evolving market needs, ultimately contributing to the growth and sustainability of the global space economy.


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