Why is SpaceX removing the Crew Access Arm from Pad 39A?

The Crew Access Arm is being removed from Pad 39A to prepare for Starship rocket launches and to allow for necessary repairs to the arm's bearings.

Where will SpaceX launch Falcon 9 rockets from now?

SpaceX will now launch most of its Falcon 9 missions from Pad 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.

What types of launches will continue from Pad 39A?

Pad 39A will continue to host Falcon Heavy launches and is being prepared for future Starship flights.

Home / Science / SpaceX Reconfigures Launch Pad for Starship Era

SpaceX Reconfigures Launch Pad for Starship Era

12 Feb

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Summary

Crew Access Arm removed from Pad 39A for Starship preparations.
Pad 39A will host Falcon Heavy launches and Starship flights.
Falcon 9 missions will now launch from Pad 40 for future flights.

SpaceX Reconfigures Launch Pad for Starship Era

Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center is undergoing significant modifications, including the removal of its Crew Access Arm, to prepare for SpaceX's Starship rocket. This historic launch site, which previously supported the Saturn V and Space Shuttle programs, has been adapted for SpaceX's Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets since 2017.

The current reconfiguration is driven by the impending arrival of Starship, with a new launch tower under construction nearby. While Falcon Heavy launches will continue from Pad 39A, SpaceX is shifting its Falcon 9 operations to the nearby Pad 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. This decision aims to streamline operations and concentrate efforts on the Starship program.

In addition to the pad modifications, the bearings connecting the Crew Access Arm to Pad 39A require repairs. SpaceX plans to address these maintenance needs while focusing on Starship integration. Future Crew Dragon flights will depart from Pad 40, marking a new operational phase for the Florida launch complex.