License Requirements for Operation of a Launch Site

This information collection is mandatory for privatized space launch facilities or entities wishing to become a privatized space launch facility. This information collection requirement is intended to enable FAA/AST to incorporate acquired data into the license, which subsequently becomes binding on the site operator. FAA/AST issues a site operator license based on the site operator’s demonstration of the ability to ensure public safety and the safety of property, both on and off the site. Under the policy review and approval process, an applicant is required to submit information identifying foreign ownership of the launch site or reentry site enterprise. FAA/AST determines, before issuing a license, if issuance of such a license would jeopardize the foreign policy or national security interest of the United States. The Launch Site Location Review and Approval provision requires the applicant to conduct an analysis that objectively determines whether the location of a proposed launch or reentry site can support the launch or reentry of a suborbital launch vehicle or, at a minimum, one class of orbital launch vehicle on at least one trajectory. Finally, the applicant is required to submit an explosive site plan, which complies with established levels of risk calculations to acceptable exposure to destructive forces. In accordance with the requirements of the National Environmental Policies Act, 42 U.S.C. § 4321, et. seq., (NEPA), the Council on Environmental Quality Regulations for Implementing the Procedural Provisions of NEPA, 40 CFR Parts 1500-1508, and the DOT’s Procedures for Considering Environmental Impacts, DOT Order 5610.1C, applicants are required to submit environmental information concerning proposed new launch sites and launch vehicles that are not currently described in the environmental impact statements, as well as payloads that may have significant environmental impacts in the event of a launch or reentry accident. .

The latest form for License Requirements for Operation of a Launch Site expires 2021-09-30 and can be found here.