SpaceX Advances East Coast Infrastructure as Starship Program Prepares for 11th Flight in October

As SpaceX gears up for the 11th flight of its Starship program in October from Texas, the company is at the same time making notable advancements at its facilities on the East Coast, particularly at the Roberts Road site, Launch Complex 39A (LC-39A), and Space Launch Complex 37 (SLC-37).

At Roberts Road, construction efforts are accelerating. Recent reports indicate that the assembly of four tower cranes is underway, paving the way for the installation of initial steel beams, which have already been prepared nearby. This construction surge puts Roberts Road in close proximity to completing its progress timeline alongside the Starbase facility in Texas. Footage from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center cameras confirmed the development of these tower cranes.

In Texas, the construction of the Gigabay is also advancing, with the installation of the floor slab reportedly in progress before elevating the cranes. Meanwhile, a dedicated construction area next to Hangar X-2 at Roberts Road is witnessing the assembly of five tower modules, alongside extensive steel materials, indicative of additional launch infrastructure. This includes a Ship Quick Disconnect (SQD) arm designed for LC-39A, signaling that the infrastructure is poised for significant launch activities in the near future.

SpaceX’s approach may involve a larger logistical framework at LC-39A. The company is preparing the largest crawler crane in the world, the LR13000, to facilitate the lifting and installation of essential components such as the launch mount, which remains in different stages of readiness compared to its Starbase counterpart. This crane’s capabilities enable it to lift heavy configurations, simplifying the construction process.

In parallel, construction continues at LC-39A, where crews have made noticeable strides on the launch pad. Three of the four legs for the launch mount are already positioned, and the main service structure’s steel framework has been established. Teams are now focused on outfitting the site with crucial operational hardware, such as hydraulics and cryogenics, although the full functionality of the pad may not be realized until mid-2026.

The groundwork at SLC-37 is also being meticulously prepared, awaiting the finalization of an Environmental Impact Statement and a lease agreement with the United States Space Force to begin construction.

Overall, SpaceX’s strategic expansion on both coasts emphasizes its commitment to establishing a robust infrastructure that supports an ambitious future launch schedule for the Starship program. As progress continues on multiple fronts, the aerospace industry is closely watching these developments in anticipation of long-awaited launches.