ULA has been steadily modifying the infrastructure at Space Launch Complex-3 (SLC-3) to support launches of the Vulcan rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. Vulcan will be ULA’s select launch vehicle supporting National Security Space missions from Vandenberg at an estimated demand at or below five to six launches per year. The Vulcan modifications were approved as part of a comprehensive Environmental Assessment performed by ULA in concert with the Space Force Space Launch Delta 30 environmental organization. The Environmental Assessment concluded that Vulcan launches from Vandenberg, as well as the physical modifications to SLC-3 necessary to support those launches, would not have a significant impact on the environment.
Major elements of the modifications include new liquid hydrogen (LH2), liquid oxygen (LO2), and liquified natural gas (LNG) systems, a new fixed launch platform (FLP), and upgrades to the mobile service tower (MST), umbilical tower (UT), and environmental control systems (ECS). Construction is ongoing and remains on track as ULA prepares for the first launch of a Vulcan rocket from Vandenberg. Current progress at SLC-3 projects an operational pad within the first half of 2025, enabling Vulcan’s unmatched endurance to deliver critical national security capabilities to orbit from the West Coast as early as next year.
Throughout this process of modernization, ULA has maintained a close and productive relationship with partners at Vandenberg, along with the Santa Barbara Air Pollution Control District (APCD), to ensure all possible due diligence is performed. Prior to construction, ULA worked with base partners to execute all necessary archaeological surveys and environmental assessments to prevent the introduction of any hazards to the area. ULA has also worked with the APCD to complete the air permit application to enable operation of the LNG storage and delivery system atSLC-3. ULA upholds a strong track record of dedicated partnership with the East and West Coast ranges and looks forward to further collaboration in preparation for the return to orbit from SLC-3.