NASA, in collaboration with SpaceX, is set to undertake environmental evaluations for a new launch site, Launch Complex 49, at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This initiative is aimed at facilitating launches of SpaceX’s Super Heavy rocket.

“Launch Complex 49 has been an integral part of Kennedy’s strategy for years,” stated Tom Engler, the center’s director of planning and development.

Adhering to environmental safeguards is a cornerstone of Kennedy Space Center’s Master and Vision Plans, with all development adhering to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

“Each new project, be it governmental or commercial, undergoes a thorough environmental assessment,” explained Don Dankert, Kennedy’s environmental planning lead. “This process helps identify and mitigate any potential environmental impacts before a project starts.”

The spaceport, sprawling over 140,000 acres that it shares with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge and Canaveral National Seashore, coexists with various endangered species, aligning its operations with its role as a leading multi-user spaceport.

The proposed 175-acre site, situated north of Launch Complex 39B within the center’s secure area, is designed to accommodate the launch and landing of Starship and Super Heavy. NASA and SpaceX are conducting preliminary environmental studies prior to finalizing any development agreement.

In early 2022, NASA will initiate public and inter-agency discussions as part of the NEPA process for the LC-49 Environmental Assessment. This phase involves describing the proposed action, alternatives, and soliciting feedback on environmental considerations and the planned analysis approach.

Other recent NEPA reviews at Kennedy include projects like the Indian River Bridge construction, expansions at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, a new Launch Complex 48 assessment, and potential developments in Exploration Park and the Launch and Landing Facility.

Additionally, Kennedy’s environmental team is focused on enhancing the Indian River Lagoon’s health. In November 2021, they presented their initiative for the lagoon’s ecosystem restoration to local and federal stakeholders, aiming to balance spaceport development with environmental conservation.

“We strive to balance spaceport expansion and environmental stewardship,” Dankert remarked. “Our environmental programs are pivotal in safeguarding our unique natural resources while fulfilling NASA’s mission.”

SpaceX is developing a site at LC-39A for Starship/Super Heavy launches and plans to use it for future missions. An Environmental Assessment concluded in 2019 with a Finding of No Significant Impact. The proposed expansion at KSC, including LC-49 and the Roberts Road site, will offer redundancy and capacity for SpaceX to enhance Starship’s flight rate while minimizing disruptions to other missions at LC 39A.

All projects at KSC undergo a comprehensive environmental review as mandated by NEPA. This includes Environmental Assessments to identify potential impacts, with planning beginning early in the development process. Such proactive planning ensures compliance with environmental laws, minimizes environmental impacts, and reduces project uncertainties.

For the SpaceX Starship/Super Heavy proposal, an Environmental Assessment will be prepared to evaluate potential environmental impacts before a final decision on LC-49 and the Roberts Road expansion. This assessment is a standard part of NASA’s NEPA process and does not indicate a project’s approval or disapproval.

SpaceX also intends to seek permits or a license from the FAA for Starship/Super Heavy operations at KSC. The Environmental Assessment will consider FAA policies on launch and reentry impacts as part of this process.