Spaceport
As spaceport spaceport or short (for the spaceport or spaceport ) is called, among other things a rocket launch site on which can also start launchers for orbital and interplanetary space missions. It may be unmanned satellites or spacecraft launch or manned space flights. In Russia and China, the term Baikonur is ( from the ancient Greek kósmos to Cosmos for "order" or "humanity" and to δρόμος syndrome for the " forward" or " way") art. Most space stations also have starting systems for sounding rockets and / or for military rockets for experimental purposes.
Space stations are currently maintained by individual space nations, states, organizations (such as the ESA) or private companies ( Sea Launch ).
Term origin
The first space stations were built in conjunction with rail systems that were required for the transport of heavy rocket stages and payloads. Only years later, the first satellite, for example, were by Sea Launch, brought from the water into orbit. And more years after that was the concept of the airport for the first space ports - initially just for suborbital space flights - used (see also Spaceport America ).
Site conditions
The criteria for the location of a space station are varied. He should if possible be close to the equator: Due to the earth's rotation, the rocket has there on the earth's surface mediated maximum ground speed and must already accelerate less, to give a total of the necessary speed in orbit. In addition, the location facilitates the achievement of the orbit. Only for launches into polar orbits are near-polar locations favorable ( for example Plesetsk ).
A rocket station should be located in a politically stable country, since its structure is associated with large investments. It should be away from densely populated areas to the east and have an ocean or a very sparsely populated area. Because almost all rocket launches take place with the Earth's rotation ( for above reason ) in an easterly direction. When it comes to a false start, otherwise people could be endangered by low tumbling debris and fuels. In addition, the site is limited to the political sphere of influence be erected State or States organization.
The space station should be built on a geologically stable place that is spared major and many storms as rocket launches usually have to be canceled in case of rain or storm. Finally, sufficient space should be available, so you can expand it if necessary.
The ideal location for a spaceport does not exist and in the choice compromises must be made.
Example: Russian Cosmodrome
Especially the Russian Cosmodrome are disadvantaged by their far northern location, as more fuel must be expended for orbital maneuver to the target orbit.
Example: Kourou
The European spaceport in Kourou Guiana Space Centre has similar facilities around the world, the most favorable position. It is located in the French overseas department of French Guiana to the north of South America ( politically stable) and is very close to the equator (favorable starting characteristics, maximum speed bonus by Earth's rotation ). The region is sparsely populated and is bordered on the northeast by the Atlantic Ocean ( low risk for humans). Since the space station is adjacent to a wooded area, also be expansion is possible. Although Kourou has a subtropical climate, but is spared from most Atlantic storms. In addition, material and goods due to its coastal location there can be transported very easily and quickly. He is, however, very far from the nuclear countries (France, ESA).
List of Space Stations
Set aside space ports
Starting places for suborbital rockets ( sounding rockets or military rockets), see rocket launch site.