The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently concluded a series of public hearings regarding SpaceX’s proposal to launch its Super Heavy Starship rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center (KSC). These sessions, conducted both in-person and online, were part of the draft environmental impact statement (EIS) review that will determine whether SpaceX can proceed with Starship launches and landings from Florida’s Space Coast.
In SpaceX’s proposal, they seek permission to operate their fully reusable Starship system from Launch Complex 39A, where the construction of a dedicated tower and infrastructure is already underway. The operations could involve landings at KSC or on droneships positioned across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. However, the final approval is not guaranteed with the completion of the EIS, as safety and financial requirements still need to be met.
Due to the larger scale of Starship compared to the Falcon 9, there would be expanded exclusion zones for air, sea, and beach access. The analysis also projected over 60 annual closures of Playalinda Beach, potential flight delays at Florida airports lasting from 40 minutes to two hours, and maritime restrictions affecting Port Canaveral.
During the public hearings, there were mixed reactions from the community. Aviation officials, like Tampa International Airport COO John Tiliacos, expressed concerns about the potential disruption to commercial flights. Others raised health concerns, particularly related to chronic sleep disruption caused by launch noise, which could have lasting effects on veterans and trauma survivors.
One unexpected issue that arose was the concern from nudists who frequent Playalinda Beach, a nudist beach in the area. Erich Schuttauf, the executive director of the American Association for Nude Recreation, emphasized the importance of preserving such spaces for those who seek destinations where public nudity is legal. Photographer Max West, who plans to move to Florida to capture images of Starship, acknowledged the environmental impact but emphasized the progress that the spacecraft represents for humanity.
Overall, the public hearings highlighted a range of perspectives on SpaceX’s proposal for Starship launches from KSC. While there are valid concerns about potential disruptions and environmental impacts, there is also recognition of the significant advancements in space exploration that Starship represents. The FAA will carefully consider all feedback and data before making a final decision on SpaceX’s proposal.