Wed, Dec 17, 2008
Cleared For Vertical And Horizontal Launches To Commence
The New Mexico Spaceport Authority (NMSA) received its launch
license for vertical and horizontal launch this week from the
Federal Aviation Administration's Associate Administrator for
Commercial Space Transportation (FAA/AST). This is a critical step
to moving forward with Spaceport America, the nation's first
purpose-built commercial spaceport.
The FAA/AST issued Spaceport America a license for vertical and
horizontal launches, after providing the Environmental Impact Study
(EIS) Record of Decision (ROD) which was needed for construction to
begin.
"These two governmental approvals are the next steps along the
road to a fully operational commercial spaceport," said NMSA
Executive Director Steven Landeene.
The New Mexico State Legislature set certain requirements for
spaceport funding, which included the formation of a local tax
district, the issuance of an FAA EIS record of decision and launch
site license, and a signed lease agreement with an anchor tenant.
"We are on track to begin construction in the first quarter of
2009, and have our facility completed as quickly as possible," he
said. The NMSA is expected to have a signed lease agreement with
Virgin Galactic later this month.
"It's an important day for New Mexico and the nation as
Spaceport America now adds to the United States' launch
infrastructure," said Daniela Glick, Chair of the NMSA Board.
Southern New Mexico's Spaceport America is positioned to become the
nation's leading commercial spaceport facility. There have been
several commercial launches for various clients from the site since
April 2007, with more launches planned. Roadwork to the spaceport
is underway, and the architectural firm of URS/Foster + Partners is
completing their final design for the terminal and hangar
facility.
Spaceport America has been working closely with aerospace firms
such as Virgin Galactic, Lockheed Martin, Rocket Racing
Inc./Armadillo Aerospace, UP Aerospace, Microgravity Enterprises
and Payload Specialties. The NMSA currently projects vertical
launch activity to increase in 2009 and construction to also begin
in 2009 with the terminal and hangar facility for horizontal
launches completed by late 2010.
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