Office of Commercial Space Transportation (AST) Monitored Operations At Cape Canaveral

Thursday, March 4, 2010 marked a significant milestone in FAA efforts overseeing the safety of the nation's commercial space transportation industry with the 201st FAA-licensed commercial rocket launch.  The Delta IV booster carried into orbit the GOES-P, an environmental satellite to improve weather forecasting and help monitor environmental events. 

Beginning in the late 1980s, all of FAA’s licensed launches have been completed without any fatalities, serious injuries, or significant property damage to the uninvolved public.  This spotless record, spanning over two decades, underscores the total commitment to safe operations throughout the FAA's full range of activities.

File Photo of Delta IV GOES launch

"With, the retirement this year of NASA's Space Shuttle, the nation will now look to the commercial space industry to take on added responsibilities, including commercial human space flights and replenishing equipment and technologies at the International Space Station," said FAA Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation George Nield. 

"Americans can feel confident that FAA's Office of Commercial Space Transportation will be on the job monitoring and overseeing the safety of these new and exciting activities," he added.

FMI: www.faa.gov