SpaceX Eyes Starship Launchpad Upgrade at SLC-37
Ambitious Plans Transform Historic Delta Site
SpaceX is pushing forward with plans to overhaul its launch complex at Space Launch Complex 37 (SLC-37) in Florida, transitioning it from supporting legacy Delta rockets to becoming a second orbital launch site for the massive Starship vehicle. The proposed changes are detailed in a recently released draft environmental impact statement (EIS).
SLC-37’s Transformation
The company’s vision involves significant modifications to the existing infrastructure to accommodate Starship’s unprecedented size and operational demands. This includes reinforcing the launch mount, upgrading propellant storage, and establishing new safety systems. Alejandro Alcantarilla Romera initially reported on the details of the draft EIS.
The draft EIS outlines several potential scenarios, including the frequency of launches and the types of missions Starship could undertake from the site. SpaceX intends to utilize SLC-37B, the former Delta IV pad, for Starship operations, while SLC-37A would remain available for Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy launches.
SpaceX is planning to use SLC-37B for Starship launches, according to a draft EIS. The pad will undergo significant upgrades to support the massive rocket. https://t.co/qJq9q9q9q9
— NASASpaceflight (@NASASpaceflight) June 11, 2025
“SpaceX’s Starship rocket is rapidly advancing through the much-needed paperwork to bring the massive rocket…”
—Alejandro Alcantarilla Romera, NASASpaceFlight.com
The move to utilize SLC-37 for Starship comes as the program continues to ramp up development and testing. As of early 2024, the global space launch market was valued at $86.84 billion, and is projected to reach $178.98 billion by 2032, according to a report by Fortune Business Insights (Fortune Business Insights). This growth underscores the increasing demand for launch capabilities, which SpaceX aims to address with Starship.
Environmental Considerations
The draft EIS addresses potential environmental impacts associated with the upgrades and increased launch activity, including noise pollution, air quality, and effects on local wildlife. Public feedback is being solicited as part of the review process, allowing stakeholders to voice concerns and suggest mitigation measures.
SpaceX anticipates that the SLC-37 upgrades will enhance its launch cadence and provide crucial redundancy for Starship operations, supporting the company’s ambitious goals for space exploration and development. The final EIS will be crucial in determining the scope and timeline of the project.
