A Launch Operations and Capacity Model of the U.S. Eastern Range

Abstract

This paper describes the methodology used to create a computer model for examining current and future launch operations of the U.S. Eastern Range. It also explains the results produced by running multiple simulations with the model. Space launch, like all other modes of transportation, is valuable to a broad spectrum of users and serves the interests of civil, commercial, and national security communities. As spaceport traffic increases, estimating launch capacity and determining a proper pace of operations become critical issues for both launch program planners and range operators. An expanding launch market with increasing priorities on the cost of space access has created a greater demand for lean operations of launch-support facilities. The Eastern Range of the United States is the busiest launch facility in the world and supports a host of launch vehicles with varied characteristics. The modeling approach utilized the field of System Dynamics to incorporate physical constraints, personnel limitations, program requirements, projected conditions, and various other factors that impact launch operations. Although the modeling effort concentrated on a specific launch range, its general cause and effect relationships could be reapplied to any launch facility. Such a model is a useful tool for better understanding and recognizing the interactions among multiple launch programs utilizing resources of a common facility. It can also be used to simulate scenarios of future operating environments and policies to aid in the upgrading or planning of new launch facilities.