CAPE CANAVERAL SPACEPORT, Fla. (September 12, 2018) – Yesterday, during its quarterly meeting in Miami, Space Florida’s Board of Directors ratified a formal Right of Entry agreement between Space Florida and the United States Air Force for Space Launch Complex 20 (SLC-20) at the Cape Canaveral Spaceport. The Right of Entry agreement will allow Space Florida to fast-track site assessment in anticipation of entering a lease with the United States Air Force to enable redevelopment of the historic site for commercial small satellite launch.
Previously used for Titan launch operations, SLC-20 is positioned to support the emerging small satellite launch market with existing infrastructure that includes a 6,000 square-foot hangar for horizontal launch vehicle processing, two launch areas with lightning protection, and a blockhouse in operational condition. SLC-20 is centrally located at the Cape Canaveral Spaceport, which offers the widest range of launch azimuths on the East Coast, and unparalleled launch support infrastructure and services as the most active spaceport in the world.
By securing and developing fallow assets such as SLC-20 and sub-leasing to industry, Space Florida can provide a variety of financial tools. This toolbox can be leveraged by industry for the development of spaceport infrastructure, including investment in capital improvements via the Florida Spaceport Improvement Program and financing of construction and equipment through Space Florida’s unique conduit financing structure. These tools are designed to lower upfront capital requirements and ongoing cost of operations for commercial companies, while encouraging private investment in the spaceport necessary to enable sustainable growth and certainty into the future.
“The redevelopment of SLC-20 continues to expand Florida’s commercial launch capacity for the rapidly growing small satellite launch segment,” said Space Florida President Frank DiBello. “As more of the Cape Canaveral Spaceport’s available infrastructure and real estate becomes occupied, Space Florida’s ability to offer market-based development and a commercial leasing structure for key assets provides value to both launch operators and the State of Florida. We look forward to working with industry to breathe new life into SLC-20 as Florida continues to adapt for the new space market.”
About Space Florida: Space Florida was created to strengthen Florida’s position as the global leader in aerospace research, investment, exploration and commerce. As Florida’s aerospace and spaceport development authority, we are committed to attracting and expanding the next generation of space industry businesses. With its highly trained workforce, proven infrastructure and unparalleled record of achievement, Florida is the ideal location for aerospace businesses to thrive – and Space Florida is the perfect partner to help them succeed. www.spaceflorida.gov
About Cape Canaveral Spaceport: The Cape Canaveral Spaceport, at which Space Florida has an operational spaceport authority role, is the premiere transportation hub for global space commerce. Space Florida oversees management and operation of key elements of Florida’s existing space transportation capability including the Launch and Landing Facility and Launch Complex 46. Those Cape Canaveral Spaceport capabilities are enabled by safe and secure operations across a broad landscape of space activities.
Media Contact:
Sara Shell, Space Florida
321-730-5301 x221
sshell@spaceflorida.gov
