States have plenty of economic incentive to push for the ports, according to the AP. Most are sited in desolate regions with little competition for development and a desperate need for jobs. A study commissioned by New Mexico predicted that its proposed port could bring in $750 million and create up to 5,800 jobs by 2020. Besides the launch infrastructure, the ports will require training facilities, luxury hotels and other services for passengers. The spaceports also can be designed to attract tourists beyond the few well-heeled flyers, generating even more jobs and revenue. In an effort to compete, the Mojave, Calif., airport recently asked the state for an $11 million loan to help build a hangar complex and terminal for space tourism — a proposal that met with some resistance. “We have to be competitive with other states to maintain this unique business opportunity in California,” state Sen. George Runner, a spaceport proponent, told the Daily News. “For now, we have an advantage over these other locations — we have existing infrastructure in place … But if we want to continue to be the leader in this new industry, California must invest in the airport.” Opponents labeled the loan request “millions for a billionaire,” saying Virgin Galactic CEO Richard Branson, who plans to use the Mojave site until the New Mexico spaceport is ready, doesn’t need financial help from the state.
Dollars For Development
Key Takeaways:
- States are highly motivated to develop spaceports due to their significant economic potential, including job creation (e.g., up to 5,800 jobs and $750 million in New Mexico) and revenue generation, particularly in desolate regions.
- Spaceport development requires extensive infrastructure, training facilities, and tourist amenities, creating further economic opportunities beyond just launches, such as attracting general tourism.
- There is intense competition among states to become leaders in the space tourism industry, with existing sites like Mojave seeking state investment to maintain an edge over new projects in other states.
- Public funding for spaceports faces opposition, particularly when critics perceive it as benefiting wealthy private companies or individuals rather than providing broad public benefit.
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