Yuma Plans for New Spaceport

Residents of Arizona could soon witness satellite launches from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base and potentially from a new site near Yuma.

City manager Jay Simonton has shared that Arizona is exploring options for a spaceport, driven by interest from commercial launch companies looking for alternative launch locations.

Simonton mentioned, “These small businesses need to test their equipment. The major launch sites in Cape Canaveral and California are often out of reach for them.” He emphasized that smaller firms are feeling pressured out of larger facilities in populated coastal states like Florida and California.

“We’re focusing on launching minor rockets that carry small commercial satellites for research purposes,” he added.

As for Yuma, it presents an ideal setting for such activity. The proximity to the Gulf of California and the Pacific Ocean makes it a favorable site for solar orbit launches. “If this goes through, all launches would be directed over the Gulf of California and above the Pacific,” he noted.

Yuma is also well-equipped with a robust aviation setup, controlled airspace, and military facilities, including the Marine Corps Air Base Yuma and the adjacent Barry M. Goldwater Range, which is jointly managed by various military branches.

A grant from the U.S. Economic Development Agency was awarded to the Greater Yuma Economic Development Corp in early 2020 for a Land Feasibility Study to demonstrate Yuma County’s capability of hosting spaceports.

According to reports, establishing the new spaceport could generate over 2,000 jobs and foster approximately $2 billion in economic growth, tapping into one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.

Simonton said, “We’re bringing in high-tech businesses that will create well-paying jobs.” Currently, Yuma is in the process of getting an operating license from the Federal Aviation Administration and seeking funding from outside investors to kickstart the spaceport development. The city was also selected as a finalist in the National Science Foundation Engines Program, competing with various other Arizona cities. As part of the Aerospace Innovation Alliance in the Southwest, Yuma could receive significant funding for its space endeavors.

Simonton also noted the project’s backing from state officials, including Democrat Senator and former astronaut Mark Kelly. “Senator Kelly is very interested and supportive. He enjoys his time in Arizona,” he mentioned.

Interorbital Systems, in a recent announcement, confirmed it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Yuma to launch a Neptune orbital rocket from a new space facility in Arizona.

Yuma Mayor Doug Nichols highlighted the importance of this development for the local economy, stating, “It transforms how the world views us,” pointing to the interest from both rocket manufacturers and related industries eager to be close to launch sites.

He also stressed the need for ongoing communication with Mexico regarding this development, ensuring cooperation and understanding between the two regions.