An Introduction to the Spaceport Industry: Runways to Space

Description

This book provides a contemporary look at spaceports, not only from relevant technological drivers, policies, and legal perspectives, but also from impacts associated with airspace use and aviation stakeholders. Economic, business, financial, and environmental considerations; issues facing airports transitioning to air and space ports; and spaceport planning are discussed. Through case and event studies, research and analysis, along with information obtained through professional experience, this book provides an overview of the many benefits, unique challenges, and issues facing commercial spaceports and spaceport operators. Each chapter is a standalone key topic such that the reader can focus on the most compelling issues relevant for them or can view the book as an integrated whole for a full perspective. While examples and case studies come largely from the United States, the reader can draw conclusions that are independent of country and situation. Information on other nation-state policies and advancements, among other topics, is provided to give a global perspective, further expanding the relevancy and benefits of the book to both domestic and international audiences. An Introduction to the Spaceport Industry: Runways to Space fills a gap in the literature, providing professionals, government officials, researchers, professors, and students deep insights into the fast-growing commercial spaceport industry. Contents List of figures List of tables Acknowledgments List of acronyms 1 Spaceports: Definitions, History, and Policy 2 Commercial Space Activities and Civil Airspace 3 Launch Vehicles, Propulsion Systems, and Payloads: The Underpinnings of Spaceport Infrastructure 4 Spaceport Infrastructure and Operations 5 Spaceport Business and Financial Management 6 Impacts of Spaceports on the Economy, Aviation, Community, and Environment 7 Spaceport Licensing and Planning 8 Future of Commercial Spaceports Index