ABSTRACT
A spaceport is a facility from which launch vehicles are sent into space, transporting the people and equipment needed to conduct commercial, scientific, and technological endeavors in orbit and beyond (Figure 7.1). Early 21st century spaceports are Earth-based facilities that launch space vehicles and their payloads into space and, if necessary, land them on return. They are similar to the modern airport in design and operation. Since airports generate impressive revenue and taxes and stimulate local economic development, it is easy to see how decisionmakers might view spaceports as potentially attractive investments.
