USSF Allocates Launch Complexes To 4 Commercial Launchers

The US Space Force has announced the implementation of a new Launch Pad Allocation Strategy (LAS) at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS) in Florida. The LAS will allocate several launch pads at the CCSFS to commercial space launch service providers, with a focus on maximizing opportunities for the number of companies that can be hosted at the station, while minimizing the operational impacts of those launches.

"Offering excess launch property to CLSPs fosters development of new space launch systems and helps to ensure a strong space launch industrial base for the nation" - Space Launch Delta 45

As part of the LAS, the Space Launch Delta (SLD) 45 has selected four companies for allocation of launch property at Space Launch Complexes (SLCs) 13, 14, and 15. The companies selected are ABL Space, Stoke Space, Phantom Space, and Vaya Space.

This allocation of SLC-13, SLC-14, and SLC-15 was only the first round of the new Launch Pad Allocation Strategy. This round focussed on small class launch vehicles, with future rounds possible for medium, heavy, and super heavy launch vehicles.

SLC-13

Currently under contract to SpaceX's for Landing Zone 1 and Landing Zone 2, SLC-13 has been re-allocated to Phantom Space and Vaya Space

Phantom Space, headquartered in Arizona, is developing reusable rockets and space vehicles that aim to make space more accessible and affordable.

Vaya Space is developing a hybrid rocket engine and small satellite launcher, and are known for their STAR-3D Engine Platform

SLC-14

Historic SLC-14, the site of all four crewed Mercury/Atlas launches, previously home to NASA's Atlas, Mercury/Atlas D, and Atlas Agena will now be home to Stoke Space

Stoke Space, based in Washington, is developing a liquid bi-propellant engine, with a focus on providing reliable and low-cost access to space.

SLC-15

ABL Space will take over Space Launch Complex 15 previously home to Titan 1 and Titan 2

ABL Space is a California-based company that specializes in developing small-class launch vehicles. The company's first orbital launch was attempted in January 2021, but ended in launch failure shortly after liftoff.

This announcement marks a significant step forward in the continued development of the commercial space industry. As more and more companies enter the market, the need for launch sites and other infrastructure will continue to grow.

With the LAS, the US Space Force is taking an important step toward ensuring that the nation's space launch industry remains competitive and innovative for years to come.