Commercial Launch, Payload Providers Encouraged To Complete Survey

As build out preparations begin for Launch Complex 36 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, commercial launch and payload providers interested in launching from Florida are being asked to complete a quick survey on Space Florida's web site.

The information gathered from potential customers will be used to develop the build out plan for the launch complex, which is expected to be ready for operation by fall 2010.

In 2008, the Air Force stated their intent to license the complex to Space Florida for build out as a commercial pad. Launch Complex 36 will be able to accommodate a variety of vehicle sizes and may support commercial, civil and/or military launches.

"As we develop Launch Complex 36, we want to ensure we're considering the unique needs of potential customers," said Mark Bontrager, Space Florida's Vice President of Spaceport Operations. "This pad will be customized to suit launch and payload providers to ensure they are able to achieve their goals as quickly and cost-effectively as possible."

Questions included in the online survey include:

• Anticipated date of launch vehicle readiness and launch frequency
• Questions to gauge familiarity with Range Safety requirements
• Estimated target payload mass and vehicle liftoff weight, as well as vehicle dimensions
• Propellant logistics
• Onsite testing and vehicle integration requirements

The questionnaire should take less than five minutes to complete, and may be completed anonymously. Potential customers are asked to fill out the survey no later than December 16, 2008.

Space Florida was created to strengthen Florida's position as a global leader in aerospace research, investment, exploration and commerce.

FMI: www.spaceflorida.gov