Cape Canaveral Seeks Funding for Infrastructure Upgrades to Support More Launches
NASA's Launch Complex 39B in Need of Upgrades
Cape Canaveral, Florida is seeking funding for infrastructure upgrades to support more launches from the area. The upgrades are needed to accommodate the increasing number of commercial and government launches planned for the coming years.
One of the most critical upgrades is to Launch Complex 39B, which is used by SpaceX for its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets. The complex needs new launch pads, gantries, and other infrastructure to support the increased launch cadence.
Upgrades Will Support Commercial and Government Launches
The upgrades will also support the launch of NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, which is being developed to carry astronauts and cargo to the Moon and Mars. The SLS is scheduled to launch from Launch Complex 39B in 2024.
In addition to the upgrades at Launch Complex 39B, Cape Canaveral is also planning to upgrade its other launch pads and infrastructure to support the increased launch cadence. The upgrades will include new roads, bridges, and utilities.
Funding Needed for Upgrades
Cape Canaveral is seeking funding from the federal government and the state of Florida to support the infrastructure upgrades. The total cost of the upgrades is estimated to be \$1 billion.
The upgrades are essential to support the growing demand for launch services from Cape Canaveral. The upgrades will help to ensure that the area remains a major hub for space exploration and commercial launch activities.