Evolution of the Florida launch site architecture, enhancing launch opportunities

The impending conclusion of the Space Shuttle Program and the Constellation Program cancellation unveiled in the FY2011 President´s budget created a large void for human spaceflight capability and launch activity from the Kennedy Space Center (KSC). This void created an opportunity to re-architect the launch site to be more accommodating to the future NASA heavy lift and commercial space industry. To satisfy that need, the 21^st Century Ground Systems Program was created, with a goal to evolve the heritage capabilities into a more affordable and flexible launch complex. This case study will discuss the KSC architecture evolution from the trade studies to select primary launch site locations for future customers, to improving infrastructure; promoting environmental remediation/compliance; improving offline processing, manufacturing, and recovery; developing range interface and control services with the US Air Force, and developing modernization efforts for integration and launch of small class to heavy class launch vehicles. The architecture studies will steer how to best invest limited modernization funding from initiatives like the 21CGSP and other programs.