When you think of rocket launches, the Kennedy Space Center often comes to mind. It’s famous for historic missions, like Apollo. In 2014, SpaceX signed an agreement to use Launch Complex 39A for their rockets. But now, that collaboration is changing.
Lee Echerd, senior mission manager at SpaceX, shared in a February 2026 press meeting that the company plans to use LC 39A mainly for Falcon Heavy and upcoming Starship launches. While SpaceX has tested Starship rockets, those tests were done in Texas and faced challenges, including safety issues during re-entry. Thankfully, engineers believe they have resolved these problems with the new Starship V2 model.
In December 2025, Kiko Dontchev, SpaceX’s VP of Launch, announced that lots of Falcon 9 launches would move to Cape Canaveral’s Space Launch Complex 40 instead of 39A. The Federal Aviation Administration noted that SpaceX plans to enhance infrastructure at LC 39A to support future Starship-Super Heavy launches. However, they need a new or modified vehicle operator license to proceed.
SpaceX is actively using SLC 40 for various missions. This platform supports most upcoming Falcon 9 and all Dragon missions. SpaceX started modifying SLC 40 in 2023, completing the upgrades in 2024. As of December 17, 2025, the last mission from LC 39A was completed. The next planned mission there is a tentative Falcon Heavy launch in July 2026, which will lift the Astrobotic Griffin lander and the FLIP lunar rover, an advanced smaller version of the FLEX Rover.
This shift reflects broader trends in the space industry. According to a recent NASA report, private sector launches have increased by over 30% in recent years, highlighting a growing reliance on commercial partnerships. For example, SpaceX completed over 80 launches in 2022 alone, showcasing its pivotal role in modern space exploration.
As the landscape of space travel evolves, user reactions on social media reveal excitement about the upcoming missions. Hashtags like #FalconHeavy and #Starship are trending, with enthusiasts eagerly anticipating future launches. This growing interest mirrors a significant historical shift, reminiscent of early days of space travel, where the public eagerly followed every mission. The excitement is palpable as SpaceX continues to push boundaries, setting the stage for a new era in space exploration.
