Launch Complex 46

Space Florida’s Launch Complex 46 business strategy is to provide launch capabilities at the lowest cost possible. To help reach this goal, the Mobile Access Structure (MAS) was carefully planned and designed to accommodate a variety of types and sizes of launch vehicles. Space Florida is actively seeking launch and payload customers for this multi-use vertical launch facility.

Past and Current Use

Originally, Launch Complex 46 was constructed by the U.S. Navy in 1985 to support land-based testing of the Trident submarine launched ballistic missile. 

The U.S. Navy began sharing the complex with the State of Florida in 1993. Each of the users has their own Mobile Access Structure (MAS) which can be moved into place over the launch pad/flame trench area. Over $6.8 million of commercial, federal, and state funds have been invested in Space Florida’s MAS, the launch stand and other support infrastructure.

Among Space Florida’s notable launches at LC-46 is NASA’s Lunar Prospector successfully launched in January 1998 and in January 1999, the Republic of China successfully launched ROCSAT-1.  Both missions used Lockheed-Martin Athena rockets. (click for video of launch)

Specifications
  • Located on the eastern point at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station (CCAFS)
  • Six (6) camera mounts
  • 7,000 square foot support building
  • Pad lighting
  • Underground equipment room
  • Lightning protection is available at the south end of the pad near the ordnance test area and on Space Florida's Mobile Access Structure (MAS)
  • Roads are in good condition and the area is fenced with security gates.
  • The multi-user pad was constructed with ten-foot diameter vehicles in mind.
  • Payload lift capabilities for low earth orbit (LEO) in excess of 4,900 lbs (2,227 kg).
  • Current infrastructure supports launch vehicles with maximum dimensions of 120 feet (36 meters) height, and multiple vehicle / payload diameters between 50 and 120 inches (125 to 300 centimeters)