Key facts
- Space Force needs a new spaceport by 2030, according to a senior commander.
- Existing spaceports will need to support 700 launches annually by 2036.
- A third launch site would offload demand and provide geographic resiliency.
- Space Force is considering public-private partnerships, new federal installations, state land, or commercial land.
A senior Space Force commander indicated that the service requires a new spaceport by 2030 to accommodate a projected increase in launch demand. Officials anticipate that current facilities will need to support 700 launches annually by 2036, a significant rise from the 175 orbital launch attempts conducted last year. The establishment of a third launch site aims to alleviate pressure on existing locations like Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg, while also enhancing geographic resiliency against potential disasters or attacks. The Space Force is exploring various options for the new facility, including public-private partnerships, new federal installations, or leasing commercial land.