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City updates spaceport feasibility and FAA application; NSF shortlist adds momentum
Summary
City officials updated the board and council on a proposed small‑satellite launch site near Yuma, outlining the FAA site‑license process, environmental study requirement, land‑swap complications (flat‑tailed horned lizard habitat), and a National Science Foundation shortlisting that could bring major federal funding.
City of Yuma staff provided an update on a proposed small‑launch spaceport project, describing FAA licensing steps, anticipated environmental review, potential sites and early private‑sector interest.
Jay Simonton, City of Yuma administrator, said the city and GYDC completed a draft FAA site‑license application and are working on an environmental study that must be finished before FAA will accept the submission. "FAA won't accept the application until the environmental study is complete," Simonton said.
Simonton said the city is targeting small rockets intended for light payloads (operators seeking to launch payloads under roughly 1,000 kilograms) and…
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